Kwid's in: Renault reveals $7k SUV

Renault has released pictures of the cut-price hatch it hopes will conquer emerging markets.

Called the Kwid, the five-door hatch is influenced by the 2014 Delhi motor show concept that was created by designers from India, Brazil, Japan, Romania, South Korea and France specifically for developing markets.

Based on Renault-Nissan’s all-new Common Module Family (CMF) the new budget hatch has already been confirmed for production and will be on sale in the second half of 2015.

Said to be inspired by an SUV, the new Kwid boasts 180mm ground clearance and has short front and rear overhangs. Despite this, all-wheel drive is not thought to be an option.

At 3.68 meters long and 1.58 meters wide, Kwid’s high-driving position is said to be a huge draw for buyers in India’s congested cities.

Renault says the five-door hatch offers best-in-class interior space. The production car also gets a new seven-inch infotainment system while the driver gets a clear and simple digital instrument cluster.

Renault is being deliberately vague about what engines will power the Kwid, but has confirmed a 0.8-litre petrol will be offered and will be “extremely well positioned in terms of fuel consumption.”

It’s unlikely the Kwid will make it Down Under, or even Europe – but countries like Russia, Brazil and China are expected to take the faux SUV that will be priced between 3-4 lakh rupees – which equates to around $7000 our money.

Renault is already making a big impact in the Kwid’s adopted home India. Last year it sold around 65,000 vehicles with the Dacia Duster SUV (re-badged a Renault) one of its biggest sellers.

Speaking at the reveal of the Kwid, Renault-Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn said: "The Kwid will enable Renault to continue its expansion and address the needs of customers who want a vehicle that is stylish, robust and easy to use."