Things you must know about the Renault Lodgy

It’s raining capacious MPVs in India. The Renault Lodgy will be launched this April, and we’ve already driven it. Our exclusive road test review will be uploaded to give you the extra low-down soon. In the mean while, we thought we’d come up with a piece where the features of the Lodgy are highlighted in more ways than one. Renault holds the distinction of inventing the MPV three decades back, and its expertise is reflected in the Lodgy as well. Renault claims their new MPV Lodgy will be a segment-breaker, and will do wonders like their macho looking Duster has all this while. However, after our drive in the Renault Lodgy, we felt that the Lodgy offers a unique blend of power, performance and efficiency along with a pleasurable driving experience, combining the performance of a sedan and the space of an MPV. Here are a few things you must know about the all new Renault Lodgy:

• Engine

The Lodgy will be available in India with two engine options: the same as shared with the Duster – trhe basic 85PS dCi diesel engine and the punchy 110PS motor. We drove the 110PS engine, which is mated to a first-in-its-segment 6-speed manual transmission. The peak torque of this engine is 245Nm @ 1750rpm. The 110PS motor will offer a fuel efficiency figure of 19.98kmpl.

The alternative variant of the same 1.5-litre dCi engine produces 85PS of maximum power and 200Nm of torque @1900rpm, which will deliver a fuel efficiency figure of 21.04kmpl.

• Comfort and Convenience

You have the Duster’s Medianav system on offer in here too, which features a USB-enabled multimedia console with navigation. The Lodgy also boasts of the elegant two-tone Gris Fume-and-Beige quilted leather upholstery. Though it is an 8-seater and has 3 rows, the superior three-row air-conditioning ensures perfect climate throughout the car.

• Charging points in all 3 rows
• 56 combinations of seat versatility

• Ride & Handling

The other gubbins on offer include: cruise control and the speed limiter in the Lodgy, which enables relaxed driving, especially on long drives with our families. Another feature of the Lodgy is the monocoque body which provides increased torsional rigidity, handling and safety. It also comes with adaptive anti-roll bars for better road-holding and safety.

• Space

The Lodgy will be available in 7 and 8-seater configurations, where the second row seats split in a 60:50 ratio, allowing easy access to the third row, while the third row can be split in a 50:50 ratio or removed completely to make abundant boot space available.

Boot Volume

207 litres with 3 rows upright

589 litres with 3^rd row tumbled

759 litres with 3^rd row removed

1861 litres with 3^rd row removed and second row tumbled

• Safety

The Lodgy is equipped with ABS with EBD and brake assist, which helps us control the weight of the MPV in an emergency braking situation. We also get the dual front airbags for enhanced safety with rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera.

•  Comparison

Longest wheelbase in its class

Interior Dimesnsions

Best-in-class performance

Engine: K9K 110PS diesel engine

Power: 110PS at 4000rpm

Torque: 245Nm at 1750nm

Transmission: 6 speed manual

Fuel efficiency: 19.98kmpl