Renault's Small Car XBA to be Called 'Kayou'? India Launch on 20 May

Renault's next big ticket launch in the Indian market is its upcoming entry level small car codenamed XBA. If emerging reports on the web are to be believed, the French auto maker will be launching its XBA small car in the country as early as next month. 

A report in Auto Car India said that the launch is scheduled for 20 May.

Renault XBA, a model based on CMF-A (Common Module Family – Affordable), is designed to rival Maruti Suzuki Alto and Hyundai Eon in India.

Another report, in MotorOctane citing industry sources revealed that Renault's new XBA is likely to be called 'Kayou', which in Japanese means commute.

The model, which is likely to be offered in three to four variants, is expected to be priced at ₹2.5 lakh and onwards. Renault XBA, a global model, is also expected to make its debut in other markets this year.

From what we have seen so far, the model is likely to get single wiper blade for front windshield and outdated rear-view mirrors.

Under the hood, Renault's small car is expected to pack 800cc petrol engine. There have also been rumours about automated or manual transmission (AMT) version of the same; however we now hear that the AMT variant will be launched later.

Renault recently expanded its portfolio in India with Lodgy MPV. Offered only in diesel engine, Renalut Lodgy is powered by 1.5-litre K9K diesel engine, which is tuned to churn out two states of tunes – 85PS and 110PS.