Monday, March 16, 2015
By Kamal Swami
Renault Lodgy: An Overview
In recent years MPV segment has dynamically flourished in Indian car market and every major car maker is coming up with a MPV that is technically advanced that then the existing MPV in segment. Renault Lodgy is one of the highly awaited MPV’s by French car maker in Indian car market. The MPV is already on sale in various International markets and is soon going to make its debut in Indian car market after its recent unveil during Star Guild Awards 2015. It would be interested to know that the version of Lodgy that would be launched in Indian car market would be miles ahead from its ancestors in terms of design, power, looks and in different matters. Let us have a look that would be offered in the upcoming version of this MPV in Indian car market.
Engine: It is expected that MPV will carry same engine configurations as offered in its sibling Duster, i.e., 1.5 litre VGT K9K engine with power tunes of 85 PS and 110 PS and would be mated with 6 speed manual gearbox. The engine generates torque of 245 NM easier to carry 8 passengers and their heavey luggage without any discomfort. Going through the critical traffic conditions on Indian roads car maker has tried to offer smooth clutch system than compared to Duster. As an impact of this driving Lodgy on both highway and in congested areas would be an interesting experience for drivers. It is endorsed to deliver the fuel efficient performance of 21.6 kmpl on highway and 12.3 kmpl in urban areas. With the top notch of 165 kmph MPV will cross the mark of 100 kmph in the span of 13 seconds.
Interiors: MPV Lodgy is the perfect match of comfort and space merged in a unit. The driver and front passengers seats are developed to offer comfort seating experience to both driver and passenger due to ample space. The seats at rear also offer comfort seating experience to passengers with slight chances of more improvement. The buyers will have an option of selecting captain or bench seats depending upon his requirement with configuration of 7 to 8 seats. The seats at last row offer comfort shoulder space. Moving towards other features offered inside the cabin includes bottle holders on front doors and beneath of centre console followed by bottle holders with foldable trays integrated at the seats of front row passengers and bottle holders for third passengers at the armrests. The boot space can be determined according to placement of seats.
Exteriors: Although the MPV carries simple looks but due to its elegance it has ability to grab the attention of commuters at first instance. The front fascia has been developed with grille especially designed for Indian car market followed by double slats near company’s logo. The fog lamps near air dam receive chrome garnish treatment. The pointed chin front bumper has efficiency to steal the heart of buyers. The side profile receives 15 inch alloy wheels. Moving towards the rear portion tail lamps are able to cover the side portion at rear. The boot opener key option has been placed over the chrome polish.
Safety and comfort Traits: The upcoming MPV alike its elder sibling Duster would be also offered in three trims RXE, RXL amd RXZ. It is speculated that the top end variant that is RXZ would be embellished with ABS and airbags at standard features. Other features that would be adorned in Lodgy will include parking sensors, reverse camera, 7 inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring stereo and navigation system, separate air conditioner vents for second and third seat passengers, cruise control system, and many more.