Renault XBA to get all-new 800 cc petrol engine, AMT

Renault has been developing an entry-level hatchback, codenamed XBA. Earlier this year we had reported a sighting of a Test mule of the car, which is believed to share its underpinings with Datsun Redi-GO concept, which was displayed at the 2014 Auto Expo. The XBA will be a part of the Common Module Family or CMF platform developed by the Renault-Nissan Alliance, christened as CMF-A (platform for the smallest and least expensive cars from the Alliance). It will be positioned, below the GO, the XBA will be Renault's car for emerging markets.

To power the XBA, Renault is rumoured to be using a new 800 cc, twin cam, three-cylinder petrol engine with four valves per cylinder. Codenamed BR-8, this engine is likely to come with two gearbox options - manual and automated manual transmission.  A more powerful 1-0.litre petrol power plant (codenamed BR-10) could also be used to power the car in the future.

Renault will not use a diesel engine in the XBA as the car's engine bay has been designed to house only the company's BR series of engines.

The XBA is expected to be launched in 2015. It will compete with the Maruti Suzuki Alto and Hyundai Eon.

Source: Autocar India