What’s new in the 2026 Renault Kwid E-Tech’s design?

The refreshed model adopts sharper, more pronounced lines compared to its predecessor. Apart from the roof, every exterior panel has been redesigned to create a cleaner and more structured look. The front features piano-black trim across the grille, while the lighting setup now includes full LED units for both daytime running lamps and tail lamps.

Renault offers five exterior color options: Slate Blue and Terracotta Red (new additions), along with Glacier White, Étoile Silver, and Noronha Green. The overall design brings the city-focused EV closer to the brand’s newer design language seen across its international lineup.

How has the interior changed?

Inside, the dashboard has been completely reworked. The new layout follows a horizontal theme with simplified lines and improved ergonomics. A 7-inch digital instrument cluster now replaces analog dials, and a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen has been added with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

White highlights on the gear lever, instrument surround, and door handles add contrast to the otherwise dark cabin. Renault has also improved storage practicality with around 33 liters of distributed space, including a double glovebox and enlarged door pockets.

What safety and driver-assistance features does it include?

The 2026 Kwid E-Tech is currently the only car in its class in Brazil to feature 11 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as standard, in addition to six airbags. These features include systems usually found in higher-priced vehicles.

List of ADAS features:

• Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist
• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• Driver Fatigue Detection
• Hill-Start Assist
• Speed ​​Limiter and Cruise Control
• Front and Rear Parking Sensors
• Rear View Camera

How powerful is the electric motor and what is the driving range?

The hatchback is powered by a 65 bhp electric motor. It accelerates from 0 to 50 km/h in 4.1 seconds, which suits its intended use for short, urban trips. The 26.8 kWh battery provides a certified range of 180 km, according to Brazil’s Inmetro testing cycle.

The model also introduces a regenerative “B-mode,” allowing the car to recover energy during braking and deceleration, extending usable range in city driving.

What are the charging options and durations?

Renault offers multiple charging solutions for the Kwid E-Tech to suit home and public setups. Using a standard 220V socket, the battery can be charged from 20 per cent to 80 per cent in under 9 hours. With a 7 kW AC wallbox, the same charge can be achieved in less than 3 hours, while a 30 kW DC fast charger reduces the time to around 45 minutes.

These options make the car suitable for daily urban use, especially for drivers who can charge overnight at home.

How practical is the new model for everyday use?

The Kwid E-Tech retains its compact proportions but continues to offer 290 liters of boot space, expanding to 991 liters with the rear seats folded. The total in-cabin storage adds up to about 33 liters across various compartments.

A ground clearance of 172 mm, one of the highest among small EVs, helps it handle uneven road surfaces and speed bumps, a useful feature in many developing markets. Despite adding new equipment and safety systems, the car is 12 kg lighter than before, now weighing 965 kg.

Where does it fit in the EV market?

Renault has positioned the Kwid E-Tech as an entry point into electric mobility rather than a premium offering. The 2026 update, however, moves the model closer to more mature EV products by introducing ADAS, digital instrumentation, and improved ergonomics.

While Renault has not confirmed any plans to introduce this version in India, the Kwid E-Tech’s configuration makes sense for the Indian markets. The offering also provides insight into how compact electric cars are evolving in cost-sensitive markets, prioritizing efficiency, connectivity, and safety over performance.

Check out Upcoming EV Cars in India.

First Published Date: 12 Oct 2025, 15:37 pm IST