Datsun redi-GO VS Renault Kwid - Quick Comparison

The Renault-Nissan partnership has seen a lot of cross-engineered cars entering the Indian market. These products include the Renault Duster-Nissan Terrano, Renault Scala-Nissan Sunny and the Renault Pulse-Nissan Micra duos. Now, Nissan’s baby brother Datsun has launched the redi-GO which is a redesigned and more affordable version of the Renault Kwid. Both cars are based on Renault-Nissan’s CMF-A platform, but have been packaged differently. So here’s a detailed comparison of both cars, so you can see what each nameplate has to offer in case you’ve been wondering which one to go for.

Exterior

The Kwid is the result of a quirky idea. Since Indian car buyers love SUVs, Renault designed a regular hatchback that looked like one and convincingly so. The length x width x height x wheelbase dimensions (3679mm x 1579mm x 1478mm x 2422mm) are small, but it still has a butch stance which many people like. You get black cladding along the lower half of the car, a well-sized front grille, C-shaped chrome motifs in the ‘smoked out’ headlamps and even the window-line sits quite high.

The redi-GO on the other hand, makes no effort to look utilitarian. It is a city hatchback and as we’ve come to expect from the Japanese, the body features edgy lines that make it grab attention. While the Kwid’s bonnet is quite flat, the redi-GO’s nose swoops down sharply and merges with the hexagonal mesh type grille that is outlined with chrome.

Even on the side, the redi-GO features a strong cut that starts at the front doors and moves up to underline the tail lights. Both cars have designs that stand out, but while the redi-GO is modern and youthful, the Kwid is more masculine and mature.

Interior Quality, Space and Features

Both cars have a healthy ground clearance (Kwid = 180mm, redi-GO = 185mm) and since the floor-line isn’t too low, getting in is quite convenient. However, once in the cabin, the Kwid feels noticeably better. The Renault’s plastic quality is acceptable, and noticeably better than the Datsun’s. Additionally, the exposed sheet metal in the redi-GO makes it feel like it was built to a cost.

Fortunately, the cars have a generous glass area that make their cabins feel airy, but the black interior palette in the Kwid looks better. The Kwid offers more front seat space since its seat travel range isn’t restricted like it is in the redi-GO and the rear seat space is better as well. The Kwid’s boot space is also better at 300 litres, compared to the 222 litres you get in the redi-GO.

On the feature front, the Kwid’s cabin is highlighted by the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, while the Datsun makes do with a single-din audio system that supports AUX/USB/CD inputs. Overall, the Kwid offers more space and storage, and is better equipped as well, but then again, it is more expensive.

Engine and Performance

Both cars get the same 799cc, 3-cylinder engine that makes 54PS of power and 72Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. They both offer adequate power for urban driving, but are average when it comes to highway performance. Even the ARAI rated fuel economy figure of 25.17 kmpl is common to both cars.

Safety

Neither one of these cars get anti-lock brakes (ABS) even as an option. A driver airbag is available with the top-end variants of both cars.

Pricing

Depending on the variant, the redi-GO is cheaper than the Kwid by Rs 14,000 to Rs 38,000. While the premium may go beyond your budget, we feel the price difference is justified for the additional value you get with the Kwid.

In the redi-GO vs Kwid battle, which one will you choose as a winner? Share your thoughts with us through the comments!

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