Renault will be bringing the Lodgy MPV to India as a rival to the Maruti Ertiga, Honda Mobilio and the likes in the segment, with the launch scheduled for early 2015.
Renault India will be launching its two major products next year which include the new entry-level hatchback as well as the Lodgy MPV that will be locking horns with the Honda Mobilio, Maruti Ertiga and the likes in the segment. With the launch still some time away, the French manufacturer has commenced testing the model in India as test mules were spotted while doing rounds in Chennai. Covered in heavy blue camouflage, the exteriors have been cleverly hidden. However if the Duster is anything to go by, the Lodgy will not be too different from the international version.
Sold under the Dacia brand in several European markets, the Lodgy is based on the MO platform that is derived from the BO platform that underpins the Renault Duster. The 7-seater MPV gets a quintessential European design with a wide grille that has been changed for India and will draw inspiration from the new age Renault models, while the sides carry large windows that result in a roomier cabin. However, do expect to see a more van like design, but not as boxy as the Nissan Evalia.
On the inside, the Lodgy will carry a two tone dashboard with beige taking prominence and will also get circular air-con vents with chrome bezels just like the Duster. In fact, the Lodgy will be sharing several components with other products from Renault’s stable for cost effective pricing. In terms of powertrain, the tried and tested 1.5-litre K9k diesel engine will make an appearance, while the 1.5-litre petrol motor from the Sunny is also expected to be on offer. Both the engines will come paired to 5-speed manual gearbox.
The Renault Lodgy will be competing against the Toyota Innova, Maruti Ertiga, Honda Mobilio, Chevrolet Enjoy, Nissan Evalia and the Mahindra Xylo in the MPV space. The product is very important for the company as its other range of models have failed to attract the same volumes that the Duster enjoys. With the MPV segment booming, Renault might just be able cut itself a reasonable chunk from the pie with a capable product on offer. The company is expected to launch the Lodgy in the first half of 2015.
Pictures Source – Motor Vikatan
