French carmaker Renault will enter the MPV segment with the launch of the Lodgy multi-utility vehicle. The MPV segment witnessed new launches in 2012 in the form of Maruti Suzuki’s Ertiga and Nissan’s Evalia. The Ertiga has been a sales success selling 5K plus units per month. Toyota Innova has been the leader but the high price has made many customers look at other options.
Code named J92, Renault is targeting to sell 35,000 units of the Lodgy MPV. Revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in 2012 Lodgy is powered with a choice of petrol engines (1.6 MPI and TCe 115) and diesel engines (90 hp and 110 hp 1.5 dCi) to meet a full range of customer expectations.
The Indian market will get the 85hp or 110hp dCi diesel options and the 1.5 (XH2) petrol engine.
the Lodgy is 4.5m long and 1.75 m wide and can comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers in comfort. The third row offers class-best space in terms of knee room (144 mm) and head room (866 mm) for two adults. The three seats in the second row are equipped with Isofix sittings to securely attach child seats and booster cushions.
Expect similar features to be a combination of the Duster SUV& Scala Sedan. Renault will have to compete with the likes of Toyota Innova, Mahindra Xylo, Nissan Evalia and Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. Tata Motors & Hyundai are also planning to launch new models in the same segment whil Chevrolet will launch the Enjoy MPV in the month of March.
After the Compact SUV, the MPV segment will be the next biggest segment in terms of sales.
