2024 Renault Kiger Turbo CVT: 5 Pros and 2 Cons

The revamped version of the Renault Kiger gets cosmetic changes, additional features, and new variants. We recently drove the top-spec RXZ variant with a CVT gearbox and here are five positives and two negatives of the compact crossover's latest model.

1. Performance

This 99bhp-producing, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine is quite peppy and offers great drivability. There is adequate power to keep going whether you want to move away from traffic or comfortably cruise along the highway. It gets three driving modes, namely Eco, Normal, and Sport, with the latter being the sharpest with throttle inputs. It also allows you to hold on to the revs for longer. Nevertheless, you have quick acceleration and won't feel nervous while overtaking big trucks and vehicles on the highway. And that's possible in the normal mode too as it offers a good mid-range pull even with part throttle inputs.

2. Proper automatic gearbox

This turbo petrol CVT offers clutch-less shifts and is only slightly lower on torque than the manual version. But it doesn't make much difference on the go and helps the car quickly progress. The peak torque here of 152Nm is delivered at 2,200rpm, which is lower than the 160Nm in the manual at a higher 2,800rpm. The turbo lag below 1,700rpm is masked well by this gearbox. And this is a proper upmarket gearbox, unlike the AMT or the iMT which induce a head nod. Here, with the CVT, there is linear progress, and with consistent pulling power, the CVT ensures a smooth driving experience. There wasn't a moment when the rubber-band effect of the CVT was imminent. Though this CVT doesn't get a Sport or manual mode, it receives an L (Low) mode to provide maximum torque. This is beneficial while climbing hills or steep inclines. It works flawlessly with the creep function and hill-hold control.

3. New features

Some technological advancements have been made with the top five being welcome goodbye sequence for the ORVMs, premium leatherette-fabric seats, leather-wrapped steering with red stitching, auto-dimming IRVM, and cruise control as standard on the turbo.

4. Safety

On the safety front, the Kiger has scored a four-star rating in the Global NCAP tests. This top-spec