Update: IAB reader Gokulraj GK has shared a new spy video of the Renault RBC.
10 January -
New spy shots of the Renault RBC have surfaced online, courtesy Autocar India. One of the shots gives the clearest look thus far at the front-end of the MPV.
The Renault RBC features a V-shaped radiator grille that is a signature design cue of vehicles from the diamond brand. The upper grille is flanked by compact headlamps designed in a curvaceous shape like that of a bowl. The headlamps seem to have LED signature light. The MPV’s first spy shot had shown that the designers had fixed an LED light strip in the midsection of the bumper, but the prototype doesn't look equipped with that.
Until now, the Renault RBC was said to ride on a modified version of the Renault Kwid’s CMF-A platform called CMF-A+. However, now, Autocar India reports that the same CMF-A platform will underpin this MPV. A length of no more than 4,000 mm will ensure that the least rate of GST (for ICE-powered PVs) is levied.
Renault won’t use its 1.0-litre SCe naturally aspirated petrol engine or Nissan’s HR12DE 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine in the RBC. Instead, it will employ a turbocharged version of the former in the sub-4 metre MPV to give it the required grunt. Transmission choices will include 5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT.
Renault’s Duster, Kwid and Lodgy sold in India have performed very poorly in the Global NCAP crash tests. Keeping that in mind, it has to lay emphasis on the structure and the safety package of the RBC. The company will offer dual-front airbags in all the grades and side airbags in the higher-end grades.
Also See: Renault RBC (Datsun GO+ rival) interior spy images confirm AMT option
The Renault RBC’s launch is said to be programmed in mid-2019 (May-August 2019). Prices could start at around INR 4.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
[Source 1: autocarindia.com]
[Source 2: Gokulraj GK]
