Renault to launch Kwid-based RBC 7-seater sooner than we expect

Although the Renault Kwid didn’t turn out to be quite the hot-ticket that the company had hoped for, the mini-hatch does churn out a respectable number and is well received by the media as a budget-friend A2 segment option. Building on that success, Renault plans to launch an all-new model in an MPV format codenamed RBC, pinned on a modified version of the same platform and powered by a modified version of the similar 1.0-litre SCe three-cylinder petrol unit which currently does duty on the Renault Kwid and Datsun redi-GO. And expect launch sooner than you might expect. In an interview with ET Auto, Venkatram Mamillapalle, CEO and Managing Director, Renault India, mentions that the company's next launch is planned for July 2019. This could very well mean that in the next few months, we could see the cheapest 7-seater MPV in the country enter showroom floor to achieve what its sister concern Datsun couldn’t with the GO Plus.

Despite the added bulk to serve the MPVs purpose, the new RBC will measure less than 4 metres in length which will help keep prices down. The new MPV will be placed below the company’s only other MPV on sale, the Lodgy and once launched, will likely be the cheapest 7 seater in the country. In a rendering created by Indian Autos Blog gives us an idea as to how the MPV will end up looking in its final production form. With a rough idea from the prototype design caught in spy shots, we predict the car gets similar touches to the Kwid but will definitely be distinguishable. The front end would most likely receive a pair of new, stylish set of headlamps equipped with LED DRLs, along with a wider lower grille featuring a honeycomb mesh grille and flanked by two squared-off fog lamp housings on either side. It might even get a sporty blacked-out front skirt to complete the look.

As for the modified 1.0-litre SCe unit that will power the mini-MPV, it will now gain forced induction in the form of a turbocharger for that extra bit of oomph. The power will be sent to the front wheels via two transmission options, a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automated manual employing a hydraulic actuator as opposed to a tradition clutch.