Renault Lodgy Stepway and standard versions to launch concurrently - Report
Expected to be launched around April.
It was last month that the Renault Lodgy Stepway was showcased in India, following a couple of on-test appearances and an official revealing of India-spec Lodgy MPV in December 2014.
Renault however will be launching the Lodgy in the regular and higher-end Stepway trims in India together, Renault India's CEO and MD, Mr. Sumit Sawhney, told CarDekho.
The Lodgy will be the first MPV from Renault India, and the company claims, "it will deliver best in segment performance". Based on the same platform as the Duster, it will be powered by the 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder K9K diesel engine which makes 108 hp and 240 Nm of torque, while the lesser powerful 84 hp version will be offered, too.
It's likely that the Stepway will be offered with former only, and positioned as the top-end variant. Unlike the diesel, there's just one petrol option available on the Duster - a 1.6-litre 102 hp unit, and that's likely to be carried over, as well. Gearbox options on the Duster include a 6-speed unit for the 108 hp diesel engine, and 5-speed units for the remaining two.
In terms of looks, the India-spec Renault Lodgy varies from the version sold in Europe, with rich chrome detailing on the grille, and black cladding for the bumper lip. The Lodgy Stepway, unveiled at the 2014 Paris Motor Show as a Dacia, brings along extra skid plates, side body cladding, and 'Stepway' badging on the doors.
Also read: Renault Duster factory in Moscow produces a millionth car
While an official announcement is pending, the 7-seater is expected to launch around April.
Competitors: Mahindra Xylo, Chevrolet Enjoy, Maruti Ertiga, Honda Mobilio
Expected Price: INR 7-10 lakhs, ex-showroom Delhi
Launch date: Around April 2015
[Source - Car Dekho]