How is the new compact that is a champion of consumption?

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3 months ago

How is the new compact that is a champion of consumption?

The new Renault Kardian It was presented in Argentina and Brazil, where it is manufactured, as the one that begins a new stage for the French brand in the region. But this statement is much more significant in our market than in the neighboring country. And it all has to do with the history of the brand in each place.

The paradox is that the brand began to manufacture the same model (Dauphine) almost simultaneously (1959) in both countries. The difference was that in Argentina its projects were consolidated while in Brazil the rhombus brand decided to withdraw after the crisis that the sector had in the 70s.

This allowed him to establish himself and create an image that reached its peak in the 90s, being one of the most desired brands among generalists. In those years and until mid-2000, the cars sold here were the same ones that Renault sold in France.

Everything changed when the company decided to aim its guns again at Brazil and designed a strategy based on models from Dacia, a “low cost” company belonging to the Renault Group.

This decision, which defined the brand’s future ranges in the country, significantly modified the perception that the user of the brand it had until then.

What is the new Kardian like?

Kardian is the first that will seek to recompose that image and will initially be accompanied by models such as the Arkana, a compact crossover and the pickup with a half-ton capacity that the brand will begin manufacturing in Córdoba.

That truck will respect the design style shown by the new Kardian. In this case, it is a crossover that offers an image that inspires solidity. It looks well planted and its two-tone bodywork (in the Premiere Edition version) gives it a striking image, especially in the orange color.

Although at some point, this model will replace the Stepway, they will coexist for a while. The question that many people ask is whether Kardian is the evolution of the Stepway. The reality is that except for a shared “adventurous” look, they have nothing to do with each other.

The interior of the Renault Kardian is shown with good finish and quality.

The mechanical proposal is absolutely modern in much of the range. Although it retains the well-known 1.6 115 horsepower engine with a 5-speed manual transmission, the novelty is the incorporation of a turbocharged three-cylinder engine that produces 120 horsepower. It is combined with a dual clutch automatic transmission and 6 speeds and together they give all kinds of tremendous results.

The first of all has to do with consumption. During the test we have done a primarily urban route, with only 30% highway sections. And the average consumption marked 6,8 L/100 km with a normal driving style.

The second has to do with the response. It is more than enough to move around on a daily basis and is effective for overtaking maneuvers on the road. It can travel without problems at 130 km/h, with the rev counter between 2,500 and 3,000. A situation that, by the way, conveys a lot of security due to the poise with which he travels.

The third has to do with the serenity with which the engine works. In general, these types of three-cylinder engines tend to be noisy and have strong vibrations. Well, this is not the case with the Kardian 1.0.

And last but not least, the gearbox. Its operation offers a step of soft but very fast marchesboth in ascending and descending directions. In fact, there are very few occasions when it is advisable to use the manual option using the paddles on the steering wheel, since it works very well automatically. Furthermore, and this is the only complaint, the system takes care of the health of the cash register and does not allow large discounts.

Inside, another reason appears as to why this model is taken as a starting point for the future Renault range. Mainly due to the general quality and the inserts. The materials in general are good but there is room to improve the finish.

The trunk space is very good and also in the rear seats. However, up front, at knee height the size of the armrest and center console can be a bit annoyingwhich reduce space.

The instrument panel is digital and offers different views, but none of them imitate a traditional one. That is, it does not simulate a dial with an analog speedometer and tachometer. Which forces you to adapt to read the information.

The touchscreen on the center console is located high up and within logical reach of any driver’s hand. However, Its quality is not the best and the response is not so fast either.. An aspect that can be improved.

Its equipment highlights its wireless connectivity with the telephone, its security elements and all its driving assistance systems, elements more common in cars of higher categories. It is a good path chosen to begin the journey that seeks to recover the image of a highly valued brand in Argentina.