The new small car will be based on the same CMF-A platform as the Redi-GO and will be competing against the Alto 800, Hyundai Eon 800, Tata Nano and the likes, making it Renault’s most affordable product in the country.
While Maruti Suzuki has been virtually untouched when it comes to market share in the entry-level A-segment hatchback space, new and new competition is certainly making the space hotter with newer entrants looking forward to dethrone the Indian auto giant from its position. After Nissan made its debut in the mass market space with its moderately running Datsun brand, Renault too will be making its advent into the volumes segment with the upcoming entry-level XBA hatchback, first prototypes of which were spotted on test near Chennai.
Spotted testing for the first time in the country, the XBA hatchback is based on Renault-Nissan’s low-cost Common Modular Family (CMF) Architecture that will also underpin the Datsun Redi-GO. The similarities between the XBA and Redi-GO extend further with the prototype in the images sporting similar dimensions. With heavy camouflage however, the design cues are still a mystery, but the roofline and height definitely resemble that of the Redi-GO concept that was showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo. The hatchback also appears to be larger in dimensions that will result in improved cabin space, compared to competition.
In terms of powertrain, the Renault XBA entry-level hatchback will be powered by an 800cc 3-cylinder petrol engine that has been developed at the company’s technical centre in Chennai in collaboration with partner Nissan. Renault most recently also freed up space at its Chennai based facility in order to accommodate production of new entry-level cars. The XBA and the Redi-GO will be sharing several components in order to keep prices low and will also offer impressive levels of fuel efficiency.
A major product for Renault India, the company plans to launch two products next year that include the XBA hatchback that will sit below the Pulse in the company’s product portfolio and the Lodgy MPV that shares its underpinnings with the Duster SUV. Both the models are crucial and will be playing in the high volume segments that should help the automaker establish its base further in the country. Expect prices for the entry-level hatchback to start at Rs. 3.5 lakhs (ex-showroom).
Source – Motor Vikatan