Renault is gearing up for a significant update to the Kwid, which has been spotted completely undisguised in Brazil ahead of its global debut. This facelift introduces a more modern design and enhanced cabin features, aligning with the brand's strategy to refresh its entry-level offerings. While the Kwid is also sold in India, these updates are expected to be introduced there as well.
Most exterior changes are concentrated at the front, where the updated Kwid receives a new rectangular enclosed grille inspired by the Kwid E-Tech electric hatchback. The bumper has been redesigned with a prominent black plastic element below the grille and a faux splitter-style lower section with silver highlights. These changes give the entry-level hatchback a cleaner and more contemporary appearance. The split lighting arrangement remains unchanged, with indicators and position lamps flanking the upper grille, while the rectangular main headlamps continue within recessed bumper housings.
Changes along the sides are minimal, retaining the familiar body cladding and flap-style door handles, with new wheel designs being the primary update. At the rear, Renault has introduced clear-lens tail-lamps and a new two-tone bumper with a silver-coloured faux skid plate.
Inside, the cabin receives more noticeable changes and draws inspiration from the newer Kwid E-Tech. The existing digital readout appears to have been replaced by a TFT instrument display, accompanied by separate fuel and temperature indicators. A free-standing touchscreen is positioned alongside the instrument cluster, with redesigned air-conditioning vents featuring a Y-shaped pattern. Renault has retained the rotary AC controls and physical buttons, including the centrally positioned power-window switches.
The car is expected to remain mechanically unchanged, retaining a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine producing around 70 bhp in international specification. The facelift focuses on exterior styling, cabin technology, and feature upgrades rather than performance.
In Nepal, the Renault Kwid currently sits as the brand’s most affordable car, priced at Rs 26.79 lakh – Rs 28.49 lakh across three variants. The 1.0 RXT-O MT is Rs 26.79 lakh, the RXT ‘O’ MT Climber is Rs 27.89 lakh, and the RXT ‘O’ AMT Climber tops the range at Rs 28.49 lakh. That places it below the **Renault Kiger at Rs 29.99 lakh – Rs 42.99 lakh, the Renault Triber at Rs 29.99 lakh – Rs 37.99 lakh, and well under the Renault Duster at Rs 46.99 lakh – Rs 50.99 lakh**.
Although the model spotted is configured for Brazil, the updated Kwid is likely to reach India at a later stage. Kwid remains an important entry-level product for Renault India, with prices currently ranging from around Rs 4.5 lakh to Rs 5.6 lakh, ex-showroom. However, its sales have declined considerably, with only 516 units sold in India last month, indicating that the current model is struggling to attract buyers. A facelift with fresher styling, a TFT instrument display, and an updated infotainment system could help renew customer interest.
Renault’s immediate focus is on expanding its SUV portfolio, with the new Duster already launched and its hybrid version expected around Diwali 2026. A new seven-seater SUV is planned for mid-2027, followed by a sub-four-metre Bridger-based SUV around Diwali 2027. With these launches taking priority, the Kwid facelift could arrive between or after Renault’s upcoming SUVs. There is no official confirmation yet, but the model’s importance to Renault’s entry-level portfolio—and its need for a sales revival—make an eventual India launch likely.
Writes on vehicle pricing, taxation and the Nepali auto market from ongoing tracking of distributor price lists. Every price in this piece is read live from the Nepal AutoMart catalog — how we verify prices.
