Car buyers’ inclination towards SUVs is quite evident. To feed this need - there are full-size SUVs, mid-size SUVs, compact SUVs, sub-compact SUVs, and even micro SUVs.

One of the SUV sub-segments that is turning out to be a hot favourite with the masses is the sub-compact crossover segment. The bestseller in this segment is currently the Renault Kiger 2023 range and for good reason. It is one of those vehicles that offer a long list of features, decent performance, and great value for money.

Below is a review written after the new 2023 Renault Kiger was taken on a test drive in a scenic locale to see what it is like.

This is the area in which the Renault Kiger stands out first. Up front, it features a split headlamp setup that is quickly gaining popularity. The LED DRLs flank the unique grille with chrome trim. The Renault logo is massive and also protrudes into the bonnet space. The bumper houses the LED headlamps and at the bottom is a new skid plate.

Move over to the side and you would find the Turbo decal. The 16-inch alloy wheels are sure to grab your attention. Some might find that Renault has overdone the design on the alloy wheels, while others feel it is premium and stylish.

The Renault Kiger has all-around body cladding, while the rear-end is pretty simple and tidy. The Renault logo takes prominence once again. The unique C-shaped LED tail lamps are still very much present.

The Renault Kiger is one of the most stylish cars in the segment quite naturally, one would expect the same styling to be present inside the vehicle as well. However, this isn't really what you find when you tug on the chunky door handles and swing the door wide open. The interior has all the features you would expect of a car in this segment, however, it could do with some more style.

Right in front of the driver is a three-spoke steering wheel with mounted controls for the audio and cruise control. Behind the steering wheel is a digital instrument cluster. In the centre is a 7-inch TFT screen that displays the various gauges, and quite a lot of information is thrown up for the driver to take in. Flanking the screen to the left is the temperature gauge and to the right is the fuel gauge.

Taking centre stage on the dashboard is an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It is pretty intuitive and easy to operate. Beneath the screen are the centre AC vents, and under them are the controls for the air-conditioning. The three dials that are used to adjust the temperature, fan speed, and AC mode also have in-built LCD screens. This is a very nice touch and is something we liked.

Beneath the AC controls are the start/stop button and a USB port, as well as an AUX-In port. You also get a wireless smartphone charger, and what makes it unique is the fact that there is a power on/off button for the wireless charger. This simply means the phone can just be placed there, even when it doesn't require further charging. Very clever indeed.

The styling on the door pads is very nice indeed, with a unique door handle. On the whole, the Renault Kiger is a nice place to be in. It certainly isn't the most stylish interior out there, but it is very practical and functional.

Renault has always sold cars that are practical, comfortable, and functional from the inside and stylish on the outside, and the Kiger is no different. The seats are very comfortable indeed. The driver's seat gets height adjustment. These seats also get a good amount of bolstering on the sides to keep occupants in place while a corner is taken at speed.

There is no room for complaints when it comes to the front seats. At the rear, though, the headroom and under-thigh support could have been better. Legroom and knee room are great, and we can see occupants using the Renault Kiger on long drives without getting much fatigue. Passengers at the rear even get adjustable headrests, dedicated AC vents, and a fold-down armrest with cupholders.

There are multiple cubbyholes across the Renault Kiger that occupants can make use of. Be it the two glove boxes up front, the cupholders in the centre console, the storage space underneath the front armrest, or the door pads, the Renault Kiger offers great practicality. The Kiger also boasts one of the largest boots in the segment. With a capacity of 405 litres, the boot can swallow quite a bit of luggage.

All models in the 2023 Renault Kiger lineup are powered by the same petrol engine. It is a 999cc, 3-cylinder unit with a maximum power output of 71bhp at 6,250rpm and a peak torque output of 96Nm at 3,500rpm. It can be paired with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed AMT.

The car we drove was equipped with a turbo-petrol engine and CVT gearbox. The engine offers great performance, but we ended up wishing for the manual gearbox instead of the CVT. There are no complaints about the CVT. It functions just as a CVT should, and CVT gearboxes are less engaging, which is what made us wish for the manual.

If an engaging drive is not your priority and only getting from point A to B is what you need the Kiger for, the CVT does a great job. However, we would pick the manual variant, which we have driver earlier. To know more about how the turbo-petrol manual Renault Kiger drives, read our detailed review.

The Renault Kiger features a stiffly sprung suspension setup. As a result, bumpy roads will see you slowing down quite a bit. The stiff suspension also means the Renault Kiger handles very well and the whole body roll is present, it is very well under control. The brakes are adequate and do their job very well.

The Renault Kiger is a likeable car and a brilliant buy. It is great value for money and offers a lot of features. The fact that it looks so stylish makes it even better. The Renault Kiger looks stunning too. If you are considering the Renault Kiger, pick the turbo-petrol with the manual gearbox.

.

.

.

.