Report - Renault XBA (Maruti Alto rival) to get 0.8L petrol engine with AMT

A more powerful 1L variant could be launched too.

It is no longer news that Renault is developing a new low-cost, entry-level hatchback codenamed 'XBA', and that India would be the launch market for this car in mid-2015. Autocar India reports that the entry car will be powered by an all-new 800 cc three-cylinder petrol engine codenamed 'BR-8'.

The publication states that the engine will use a twin-cam setup with four valves per cylinder. The new engine will be paired to a 5-speed manual transmission, and an automated manual transmission is coming for Renault's cheapest car as well.

Since the XBA will be targeting first time car buyers who would prefer a model without the third pedal and a gearlever, an AMT system (which is cost effective, yet doesn't take a toll on fuel efficiency or maintenance bills) is quite apt. Recently, Maruti launched the new Alto K10, equipped with an AMT and priced at INR 3.8 lakhs, ex-Showroom, New Delhi, making it the most affordable automatic car in India.

The Alto K10 too is sure to find a worthy rival in the XBA as a more powerful variant with a 1.0-liter engine (codenamed BR10) is also under development.

Also read: 2015 Renault Espace MPV unveiled in Paris

The XBA will be the first Renault car in India to use the CMF-A modular architecture. This platform will be shared with the Datsun Redi-Go, according to reports.

Competitors: Maruti Alto, Hyundai Eon, Datsun redi-Go
Expected Price: INR 3-3.5 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date: Mid to late-2015 in India

[Source - Autocar India]