The Indian car market is very fast paced and also diversified. With the passage of time, the car market of India is not only getting more and more matured, but a whole lot of new segments are also coming into existence. One such new and fast developing car segment of India is the compact crossover segment. Initially, these crossovers were not popular at all, as the buyers could not figure out why these sporty looking hatchbacks are pricier than the regular hatchbacks. However, the crossovers seem to be on the roll now, and a number of new crossover models are being launched in this country. Then again, things tend to get pretty much mixed up when it comes to hatchbacks that look like SUVs, or mini SUVs that have hatchback-like features. These can be essentially all termed as crossovers, but are called according to the segment they are placed in. For instance, the Mahindra KUV100 is a compact crossover, but is called a micro-SUV and it primarily goes against compact hatchbacks of India. Here, we are going to pitch the Mahindra KUV100 against the Renault Kwid, which is definitely a small hatchback, but comes with SUV-like styling.
These two cars are really not direct rivals, as they belong to two completely different segments. However, they have one thing in common, their compact SUV styling which make both fall essentially under the crossover category. For modern Indian buyers who are all for small cars that offer beefy SUV looks with affordable pricing, both the Renault Kwid and Mahindra KUV100 are attractive options (although there’s considerable price gap between the two). So, let us take a look at both these to find out which one is a better choice. Due to the price difference between these two cars, we are comparing the top-end Kwid model trim – RXT (O) against the base petrol model of the KUV100 – K2.
Styling
The Renault Kwid is an entry-level hatchback, while the Mahindra KUV100 is a micro-SUV, thus the latter is obviously a bit beefier than the first. However, when styling is concerned, both are very fresh, sporty and eye-catching. The Kwid has a very sporty mini SUV styling that is really impressive, especially when its segment is considered. It is a very well proportionate and attractive looking. On the other hand, the Mahindra KUV100 looks very youthful and trendy, but some might even say that it looks a bit quirky. Nevertheless, the Mahindra KUV100 is indeed very eye-catching and offers a very fresh visual appeal.
Dimensions
When dimensions are concerned, the Renault Kwid is 3,679 mm long, 1,579 mm wide and 1,478 mm high. It rides on a wheelbase measuring 2,422 mm and has a ground clearance of 180 mm which is best in its own class. It also offers a very impressive boot capacity of 300 liters.
The Mahindra KUV100 is 3675 mm long, 1705 mm wide and 1635 mm tall. It rides on a wheelbase measuring 2385 mm, while offering a ground clearance of 170 mm. It has a cargo space of 243 liters.
Thus, it is clear that even though the Kwid is an entry-level hatchback model, it is longer than the KUV100 along with a longer wheelbase to offer better rear legroom. It also offers better ground clearance KUV. The KUV100 is wider and taller than the Kwid, so it offers better elbow and head space for the occupants.
The Kwid has a smaller fuel tank capacity of 28 liters as against the KUV100’s fuel tank capacity of 35 liters.
Engine, Transmission & Mileage
The Kwid’s top model gets powered by 999 cc 3-cylinder petrol mill which generates 68 Ps of max power and 91 Nm of top torque. It comes equipped with a 5 speed manual or AMT gearbox.
On the other hand, the Mahindra KUV100 gets a 1198 CC 3-pot petrol motor that has the capability to pump out a max power 82 Bhp and a peak torque of 115 Nm, and is paired with a 5 speed manual transmission.
Thus, when it comes to mechanical specs, the KUV100 is more powerful than the Kwid. However, the KUV100 is also considerably heavier than the Kwid, which means it’s not as peppy as the Kwid. The ARAI fuel efficiency of the Kwid is 24.04 km per liter, while the KUV offers a mileage of 18.15 km per liter. This means that the Kwid also offers better fuel economy.
Features
The range topping Renault Kwid RXT (O) model trim comes packed with many good features. The Kwid features list include two-tone dashboard design, digital instrument cluster, electric power steering, a stylish steering wheel with piano black highlights, front power windows, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth and telephony, two glove boxes, air conditioning system, remote keyless entry, etc. Safety and security features include driver’s side airbag, engine immobilizer, child safety lock, power door lock, central locking system.
The Mahindra KUV100 K2 petrol model, being the base model trim misses out on quite some of the features that the higher trims are endowed with. The KUV K2’s cabin comes laden with electric power tilt adjustable steering wheel, digital instrument cluster, door ajar warning, front armrest, air conditioner unit, etc. Its safety equipments includes engine immobilizer, child safety lock, ABS and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), but it lacks airbags.
Pricing & Warranty
The top of the range Renault Kwid AMT RXT (O) variant has been tagged at Rs. 4.35 lakhs (ex-showroom, New Delhi). The Mahindra KUV100 petrol K2 base model is priced at Rs. 4.98 lakhs (ex-showroom, New Delhi). Thus, the price gap between the two is quite noticeable.
Conclusion
Both the Renault Kwid and the Mahindra KUV100 are attractive, compact, sporty, new-age vehicles in the Indian car market. However, when all the aspects are considered, the Renault Kwid is definitely a better choice than the Mahindra KUV100. The Kwid offers better style, better legroom and boot space and peppy performance. It also offers a lot more features than the KUV at a very affordable price. Thus, the Kwid is definitely a superior buy for the first time Indian car buyers.