To be launched in early 2015.
The Renault Lodgy which is slated to be launched in India in early 2015 has been spotted testing once again, this time by Youtube user Swagat Tushar near Yelagiri hills near Chennai.
[Head to Youtube if you can't watch the video.]
So far the prototypes of the Duster-based MPV had been testing under the cover of thick black cloak, and now a thinly camouflaged test mule has emerged, giving subtle hints on what styling changes to expect from the rebadged Dacia people carrier.
Upon closer observation, one can see the prominent Renault Lozenge hidden beneath the camouflage on the unique three-slat radiator grille. Like the Duster, the Lodgy would also be Indianized at the carmaker's design studio in Mumbai which means some of the body work would be finished in chrome, and the interior finish and colours could vary.
Based on the Renault Duster's platform which in turn derives its roots from the Dacia Logan (Mahindra Verito), the 7-seat MPV is expected to enter production at Renault-Nissan Alliance's Oragadam plant towards the end of this year.
Also read: Renault offers heavy discounts on diesel models to clear stock
The Lodgy will derive its diesel engine from the Duster which is powered by a 1.5-litre K9K mill in two states of tune - 85 PS and 110 PS. While the 85 PS version is almost certain to make it to the Lodgy, it remains to be seen if Renault will offer the more powerful variant which comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox.
Competitors: Maruti Ertiga, Honda Mobilio, Mahindra Xylo, Chevrolet Enjoy
Expected Price: INR 7-10 lakhs, ex-showroom Delhi
Launch date: Early 2015
