Renault Triber test drive: make sure to check these features out
It’s related to a distinctly unremarkable budget car, but the Renault Triber manages to transcend its very humble roots to become a versatile and good-looking “SUV-inspired” people-mover with very affordable pricing. When you take a Triber for a test drive, we suggest you check out these features to really appreciate the value on offer.
Test driving a Renault Triber is unlikely to get your heartbeat racing on account of its driving dynamics: it’s quite slow and not at all entertaining through the corners. Much like the Renault Kwid to which it’s related, then. But the Triber has many other redeeming qualities, including attractive styling, impressive packaging, and a very affordable pricetag. It also has plenty of available features, too, many of which will cost a buyer extra in larger, more-expensive cars.
Related: Our launch report of the Renault Triber has all the details about the whole model range.
1. Genuine versatility
Seven seats which can be manipulated in a myriad of permutations, numerous storage cubicles, and a number of shelves in the cabin make for an impressively space-efficient interior. The Triber’s tall posture plays its part to make this possible, and some thoughtful design features complete the picture. Available configurations vary from seven usable seats (capable of accommodating seven average-sized adults) but with virtually no luggage space, to near-van-like space with the rearmost seats removed and the middle row tumbled away.
The seating arrangements are particularly impressive, because the (50/50 split) third-row seats can be individually removed without needing any tools, while the (60/40 split) middle row can be slid forwards and backwards, and individually reclined or tumbled away, to distribute space as needed. In 5-seater mode (with the rear seats removed), the Triber can even double as a spacious family vehicle, with plenty of room for occupants as well as a cargo volume of 625 litres.
Related: Our review of the Renault Triber approved of the value prospect on offer, but found the performance to be extremely leisurely.
2. Generous standard equipment
Even the entry-level Triber “Expression” power steering, air conditioning, front electric windows, remote central locking, rear parking sensors, and a USB/Bluetooth-enabled audio system. Safety equipment runs to two airbags and ABS, so it’s pretty much on par in that area as well. That’s pretty good standard kit for the asking price of R 183 900, especially considering the cabin space on offer.
Moving up to the mid-trim “Dynamique” adds a colour touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and smartphone mirroring, rear electric windows and electric side mirror adjustment, an extra (upper) glove box, cooling for the normal (lower) glove box, a cooled compartment between the front seats, and roof rails with a 50 kg carrying capacity – all for a price premium of only R 10 000 over the base model.
The top-level Triber “Prestige” gives the most for the money, however, with alloy wheels, a rear-view camera with moving guide lines, keyless entry with pushbutton start, and the addition of two front side airbags (for a total airbag count of four). It will set you back R 209 900, which is really dirt cheap for something this practical and well-equipped. Dynamique trim is still the best value for money in the range, though, because it commands a very moderate price hike for a whole lot of extra features.
Related: Is it worth buying a new Renault Triber instead of larger, used MPV or SUV?
3. Rear air-con controls
This is a fairly common feature among people-movers, but it’s very unusual to find this at the Triber’s price point. In fact, you’d have to look towards a mid-sized sedan to find any dedicated rear seat air vents, yet the Triber has adjustable vents for the second row (mounted in the B-pillars) as well as for the rearmost seats (mounted in the roof).
On top of that, there are separate controls for the front- and rear compartments – once again, a feature you’d usually only find in vehicles that cost three- or four times as much. Instead of boasting a sporty chassis and spritely performance, the Renault Triber majors on practicality and comfort at bargain prices. In tough economic times, that’s probably the more pragmatic approach, making the Triber a class leader in a class of its own.
Related: We compared the Renault Triber’s infotainment system to those of two similarly-priced opponents.
