The model arrived in Mexico in 2019 under the slogan “the compact SUV”, taking advantage of the growing popularity of this type of vehicle. Kwid, quickly became a bestseller and, at the end of that year, it generated 20% of Renault’s sales in the country. Its popularity has grown since then and, in the first quarter of 2023, the model has generated 40.5% of Renault’s sales in Mexico, according to Inegi data.
Today Kwid is available with a naturally aspirated 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine that, mated to a five-speed manual transmission, generates 66 horsepower. According to the brand, fuel efficiency reaches up to 17.6 kilometers per liter. In terms of safety, the model meets the requirements established by NOM-194, such as ABS brakes and four airbags.
E-Tech, the electric version of Kwid
Kwid’s success in emerging markets led the French brand to develop an electrified version, known as the Renault City K-ZE. This variant made in China was launched in 2019. As of 2021, it began to be exported to Europe under the name of Dacia Spring Electric, while in 2022 it made its entry into Latin America as the Renault Kwid E-Tech.
The 100% electric Kwid version is confirmed for Mexico. Renault has said that it will arrive this year imported from France.
“Brazil is going to continue producing the thermal Kwid (gasoline), but the idea is that all the electric ones that we sell in Mexico come from France,” explained Magda López, president of Renault in Mexico.
The E-Tech variant has distinctive features that set it apart from the gasoline version, especially at the front. The grille, for example, is almost completely closed, because electric vehicles do not require less air cooling.
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Renault Kwid E-Tech
Courtesy
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Renault Kwid E-Tech
Courtesy
Among the data that the brand has advanced on the electric variant of the model, its autonomy stands out, which is 265 kilometers. The recharging process from 15% to 80% takes just 40 minutes at a fast charge point, while on a wall charger it takes just under three hours.
Although there is still no official price for the Mexican market, the brand has said that it will seek to make it “quite competitive.” In Europe, the model is priced at 26,870 euros (about 505,740 pesos).
Today, the cheapest electric vehicle on the market is the JAC E10X, which, after the price drop announced by the Chinese brand in April, starts at 439,900 pesos.