Renault planning to launch XBA after 9 months

Renault is planning to expand its India line-up with the addition of two new models this year. The first of the two is the Lodgy MPV, which is expected to be introduced later this month or early next month. The second product is a budget hatchback, codenamed XBA, which will be Renault's car for emerging markets.

The XBA will be Renault's rival for the Maruti Suzuki Alto and Hyundai Eon. The company is planning to price it under Rs. 4 lakh. Renault has stated that the launch of the car is nine months away, which roughly translates to December 2015.

The XBA is believed to share its underpinnings with Datsun Redi-GO concept, which was displayed at the 2014 Delhi Auto Expo. Renault is expected to use a new 800 cc, three-cylinder petrol engine. A more powerful 1.0-litre petrol power plant could also be used. The car is likely to be available with two gearbox options - a manual transmission and an automated manual transmission (AMT).

Both, the Lodgy and the XBA could be exported in the future.

Source: Economic Times