The Renault Kiger recently underwent the Global New Car Assessment Program (GNCAP) crash safety test and emerged with flying colours. In this special feature, we take a closer look at how this evolved compact SUV has stood out in more ways than one.
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, “Safety First!” Having a safe environment is crucial for someone to be themselves and let that light-hearted spirit take over. Having a safe space allows one to be happier and more engaged in what they’re doing without having a nagging thought of uncertainty in the back of their mind leeching the grey cells that would otherwise be consumed by joy and focus. In this age of uncertainty, safety plays a key role in a buying decision, more so when it comes to cars, what, with traffic getting noticeably worse by the day.
Renault have always delivered dynamically-gifted cars with inherently excellent ride and handling characteristics; across all segments and price ranges. The Kiger is no exception. It combines a strong build with commendable handling and a good selection of powertrains. With a spacious cabin, three-point seat-belts It offers the dual benefit of being dynamically superior enough to actively avoid a crash or an incident, and, in the worst case scenario, safe enough to not lead to serious injuries or a fatality.
The Renault Kiger, unsurprisingly, like its sibling, the Triber, did well in the GNCAP crash safety test. With the base model being tested, that meant the structure, seat belts (primary restraint system) and dual front airbags (secondary restraint system) are the only elements that resulted in what is quite a commendable outcome. The Kiger earned four stars for adult occupant protection, scoring 12.34 points out of a maximum of 17. With a test speed of 64 km/h, it was encouraging to see that the Kiger provided “good” protection to both the driver and passenger dummy heads with a stable foot-well too. Having a robust structure from the outset is crucial. As we always say, one can buy accessories aftermarket, but performance dynamics and safety are a different story. The Kiger is also equipped with a seat-belt reminder (SBR) as well as the now mandatory four-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). Two side airbags—for a total of four airbags—are optionally available.
“One can buy accessories aftermarket, but performance dynamics and safety are a different story”
The Renault Kiger is available with a choice of 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engines, one a naturally aspirated unit with 72 hp and a choice of manual or automated transmission, and the other a 100-hp turbo unit with a choice of manual or CVT automatic. It is one of the more accessible compact SUVs too, starting from Rs 5.79 lakh (ex-showroom).
