Renault’s compact city car, the Kwid, is gearing up for a major refresh after the recent updates to its siblings, the Triber and Kiger. Spy shots have now surfaced of the facelifted Kwid undergoing road tests, giving enthusiasts a glimpse of what’s coming next. This marks the model’s third major update since its global debut nearly a decade ago, the last being a specification upgrade in 2024.
Renault Kwid: Dacia-Inspired Styling
The facelift is heavily influenced by the Dacia Spring EV, Renault’s European budget-friendly electric vehicle that has seen strong sales since its debut five years ago. The upcoming Kwid is expected to adopt several styling cues from the Spring, including newly designed LED headlights similar to those on the Duster and Bigster, a reshaped grille, and redesigned bumpers. At the rear, the hatchback sports Dacia’s signature Y-shaped LED taillights for a more modern appeal.
Upgraded Cabin and Features
Interior spy shots suggest that the facelifted Kwid will also benefit from notable enhancements inside. The most prominent addition is a larger infotainment display, paired with the familiar steering wheel from the Triber and Kiger. Reports further indicate that Renault is prioritizing safety this time around, with the entire facelift range likely to come standard with six airbags.
The refreshed Kwid continues to be underpinned by the CMF-A platform, shared with the Nissan Magnite, Triber, and Kiger (in extended CMF-A+ form). Power will remain unchanged, with the current 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine producing 50 kW and 91 Nm of torque. Transmission choices will once again include a five-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed Easy-R automated manual (AMT).
EV Variant on the Horizon?
Speculation remains around whether Renault will finally introduce an all-electric Kwid, based on the City K-ZE from China, which also serves as the foundation for the Dacia Spring. The Spring EV, recently refreshed in Europe, features a 28.6-kWh battery and delivers either 33 kW or 48 kW, providing a range of up to 220 km. If Renault brings the Kwid EV to market, it could expand the brand’s appeal in the growing entry-level EV segment.
Launch Timeline and South African Market
The facelifted Kwid is expected to make its official debut in India before the end of the year. However, Renault has yet to confirm its rollout in South Africa, where the Triber and Kiger updates have already been introduced. Currently, the Kwid remains a key part of Renault’s local lineup, though no longer the most affordable. Pricing in South Africa starts at R196,990 for the Zen trim and peaks at R227,999 for the Climber AMT.
Should Renault South Africa greenlight the facelift, the refreshed Kwid would likely arrive in 2026 with a slight price increase to match its new features and styling.
Related article: Next-Gen Renault Duster Launches in SA: Pricing Starts at R489,999
