Market launch expected around April 2015.
Renault India has listed the Lodgy in its official website, albeit with little details. The market launch of the MPV is nearing, with reports speculating it to take place around April 2015.
Based on the Duster's platform, the Renault Lodgy will be the first MPV from the French brand. It looks almost identical to the European spec model, save for extra chrome detailing on the grille and black cladding on its lower bumper. The top-spec Stepway variant will further add body cladding on the side, front and rear silver skid plates, new front bumper, and more chrome detailing on the triple-slat grille.
Renault claims that the Lodgy will deliver "best in segment performance". Powering the vehicle would be the potent 1.5-liter 4-cylinder K9K dCi engine from the Duster, which makes 108 hp and 240 Nm of torque. Top spec variants, including the Stepway, will feature this engine paired to a six-speed manual gearbox. Renault could also offer the less-powerful 84 hp version for the entry-level model, which comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
The petrol variants, not expected to make up a big chunk of sales, could use the Duster’s 102 hp 1.6-liter unit, also coupled to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Renault currently don't offer an automatic transmission on the Duster.
Also Read: Renault Lodgy Stepway and standard versions to launch concurrently
Renault will intensely localize the Lodgy at the Nissan-Renault JV plant in Oragadam, Chennai. Prices are expected to start at around INR 7 lakhs for the standard Lodgy, and go all the way to INR 10 lakhs for the Stepway.
Competitors: Mahindra Xylo, Chevrolet Enjoy, Maruti Ertiga, Honda Mobilio
Expected Price: INR 7-10 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi)
Launch date: Around April 2015
