Renault India to expand utility vehicle portfolio

Renault India is planning to launch a range of utility vehicles in India. The French automaker saw immense success with the Duster and has attempted to replicate the SUV's traits with the Kwid. Now, Renault plans to expand its utility vehicle line-up and offer multiple models in different price brackets.

Speculated to be on the list is a rival to the XUV500, codenamed the HHA, which may be revealed in 2017. The SUV will be a derivative of the Renault Captur, which itself was supposedly on its way to India in 2018. Like the Hyundai Creta and Mahindra XUV500, the HHA will capitalize on the decreasing popularity of D-segment sedans - a phenomenon that has already made the Fluence its victim (apart from Renault's lack of interest in promoting it). The SUV is likely to see a lot of part sharing with the Lodgy and Duster, enabling cost savings, helping Renault price it competitively.

In addition to the HHA, an MPV and SUV based on the CMF-A platform are expected to be on their way. These models could be priced in the 5-10 lakh bracket. It is likely that one (if not both) of these models will be a sub-4 metre offering.

The Renault Duster, which established the brand in India has seen its market share drop of late. In order to tackle the pressure from Hyundai, Ford and Mahindra, Renault will be bringing in the facelifted Duster, with the launch possibly taking place at next year's auto expo.

Source: ET Auto