Renault recently launched its compact SUV, Kiger in India and it is already making some headlines. The reason for that lies in the aggressive pricing of Kiger which not only undercuts its rivals in the compact SUV segment severely but also overlaps the boundaries of the segments and challenge some of the premium hatchbacks as well. Tata Nexon, on the other hand, is steadily gaining market share for itself on the back being a robustly built product and safe vehicle (5-star NCAP rating). The comparison between these two will show if the Nexon can continue to keep selling or will the Kiger put a dent in sales of the Nexon and create a market of its own. Renault has not only targeted the customers looking to buy a compact SUV but also wants to persuade customers of premium hatchbacks by offering something bigger at a more affordable price. Let us dive into the comparison for now.
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Renault Kiger vs Tata Nexon – Exterior and Dimensions
The Renault Kiger features two honeycomb-shaped chrome effects running across the front grille and LED DRLs placed on the bonnet. The LED headlamp cluster is placed down below on the bumper, which is encased in the chrome unit. Along with this, the sporty front bumper with skid plates gives it a tall and muscular stance. The sides are accentuated by the 16-inch black diamond-cut finished alloys, wheel arch cladding with roof rails and dual-tone roof. When we move to the rear, we are greeted by the LED tail lamp unit with glossy black inserts, which make the look very modern indeed.
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The overall built quality and design of the exterior of the Nexon make it look very muscular and tough. The coupe-inspired aerodynamic design, bold LED DRLs, the new additions on the bumper and tri arrow accents on the chin make it look wider. The white beltline on the sides gives it a distinct side profile and the Y-shaped LED tail lamps with Nexon badge written across the boot lid is a modern and sophisticated touch.
| Parameter | Renault Kiger | Tata Nexon |
| Length | 3991 mm | 3993 mm |
| Width | 1750 mm | 1811 mm |
| Height | 1600 mm (with roof rails) | 1606 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm | 2498 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 205 mm | 209 mm |
| Boot Space | 405 L | 350 L |
Although the overall dimensions of these products are more or less the same, the Nexon is significantly wider than the Kiger which might well translate into a more comfortable second-row seating experience. Apart from that, the higher ground clearance inspires confidence on some off-roading expeditions that one might decide to venture on. The Kiger has the largest boot in the segment and boasts of practicality.
Also read: Renault Kiger vs Hyundai Venue – Prices, features and specs comparison!
Renault Kiger vs Tata Nexon – Interiors, Safety and Features
Being the latest launch in the segment, the interiors of the Kiger revolve around the 8-inch Digital Infotainment Touchscreen with wireless smartphone replication for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with Voice Recognition, USB and Bluetooth connectivity for seamless pairing of smartphones to use the driving and multimedia apps. Through the MULTI-SENSE setup, the drive can choose from various driving modes according to the conditions, like Normal, Eco and Sports mode. All this information is available to the driver via a 7-inch TFT Digital Instrument Cluster. Then there is the Auditorium 3D Sound system with 8 speakers, Ambient Lighting, Hands-free smart access card, Automatic Climate Control, Air Filter and much more. On the safety front, the Kiger comes equipped with dual-front airbags as well as two side airbags, Radar Sensors and Reverse Parking Camera, front seats get seat belt reminder alert, ABS with EBD, Three-point seatbelts for front and rear passengers (rear center passenger gets a two-point seatbelt).
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The Tata Nexon also boasts hugely comprehensive features, safety and convenience list. The interiors are fresh and of high quality. The three-layered dashboard design with soft-touch materials and textures accentuates the cabin feel. The Nexon offers convenience features like Automatic Projector Headlamps with LED DRLs, Digital Instrument Cluster, 7-inch Touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Tata’s very own iRA- Connected Car Tech, Sunroof, Automatic Climate Control with Xpress Cool function, Keyless Go and Cooled Glove Box. Securing a 5-star in the Global NCAP would not have been possible without the safety tech like Dual Front Airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP with Electronic Traction Control, Roll-over Mitigation, Emergency Brake Assist, Hill-Hold Control, Driving Modes (Eco, Sport and City), Brake Disc Wiping, Cruise Control, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts and Rear Parking Camera with Sensors.
Also read: Renault Kiger vs Nissan Magnite – Prices, features and specs comparison!
Renault Kiger vs Tata Nexon – Engines, Prices and Verdict
| Renault Kiger | Tata Nexon | |
| Engine | 1L Petrol; 1L Turbo-Petrol | 1.2L Turbo-petrol Revotron; 1.5L Turbo-diesel Revotorq |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual; 5-speed AMT; Xtronic CVT Automatic | 6-speed Manual; 6-speed AMT |
| Power | 71 bhp / 99 bhp | 120 bhp / 110 bhp |
| Torque | 96 Nm / 160Nm (152Nm with CVT) | 170 Nm / 260 Nm |
Both these SUVs come with multiple engine-gearbox combinations. The power and torque output on the Kiger might seem low but it is a much lighter car as well. Therefore, one will not feel underpowered at any time. On the other hand, Nexon gives you the flexibility of choosing between petrol or diesel powertrains with manual and automatic transmission options. In terms of flexibility and options, the Nexon has a slight edge over the Kiger. The introductory prices of the Kiger start at Rs. 5.45 lakh and go all the way up to Rs. 9.55 lakh, ex-showroom. The Dual-tone options will cost Rs. 17,000 more for any variant. On the other hand, the Nexon ranges between Rs 7.10 lakh to Rs 12.79 lakh, ex-showroom.
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Well, both these compact SUVs have their distinct characteristics for which you can decide to buy either of them. However, if you are on a budget and looking for an SUV with all the modern amenities and features, you can easily opt for the Renault Kiger and take advantage of its introductory prices. However, if you can stretch your budget a little and want more powertrain options, features and best safety tech in the segment, then Tata Nexon is the one for you.
