Renault announced last month that the company is working to introduce its iteration of an entry-level hatchback that will be based on the Datsun Redi-GO concept showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo, earlier this year. Possibly called the Renault XBA, the hatchback is based on the CMF-A platform which has been developed in collaboration with partner Nissan. Now, the folks at Autosblog have rendered what the XBA hatchback would look like, taking design traits from the Redi-GO concept and Renault’s new design language.
On the outset, the Redi-GO influence is pretty evident on the Renault XBA. Citing the fact that the Redi-Go concept is a good looking vehicle, the XBA too follows suit. The front fascia retains the new Renault family look, while the rear takes heavy inspiration from the concept. Renault India confirmed that the XBA hatchback would be launched in India in 2015. The small car could get an 800-900cc engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, similar to the competition. The XBA is expected to offer an airy cabin with decent build quality, similar to the Datsun GO.
The Renault XBA is a very important product for the company not only in India, but globally as well. A very similar market to India, Brazil too is expected to get the entry-level small car that will replace the Mio Clio in the country; while Europe too could get the new hatchback with certain alterations that will fulfil Renault’s promise to launch a Dacia model under 5000 Euros. The XBA will be locally produced at Renault-Nissan’s Oragadam facility, near Chennai.
In India, Renault needs to win volumes to establish the company as a mainstream player. The company currently is known mostly for the Duster compact SUV and cannot rely on it alone to have a sustainable business model in the country. The very popular entry-level hatchback segment could be a saving grace for the company, helping build volumes in the Indian market. Renault is expected to aggressively price the XBA that will be competing against the Maruti Alto 800, Hyundai Eon and sibling Datsun Redi-GO in the segment.
Source – Autosblog
