In these tough economic times, practical and affordable vehicles are essential for the majority of buyers. The recent launches of so many new models in this market segment bear testimony to the fact.
The affordable 7 seater segment is one of those, geared at families or businesses that need to transport extra passengers whether its sometimes or always. Even if it is at the expense of boot space when using all 7 seats.
The Renault Triber was launched here early in 2020 and this is our second test of the model. It is an interesting anomaly, VERY cheap, yet with some features that you would only expect in more expensive vehicles.
The Triber is available in 3 model specifications, with all using the 1L 3 cylinder petrol engine that delivers a modest sounding 52kW and 96Nm to the front wheels through a 5 speed manual transmission. A 5 speed automatic option is also available for an additional R10 000 on the purchase price.
The first surprise with the Triber is that although the output seems modest, the car is very capable of maintaining a cruising speed of 120km/h on the freeway. The boxy body may be a bit "boomy" and lots of wind noise from the side mirrors but it's light and comfortable on the road.
A large amount of our test driving consisted of freeway driving with only 1 or 2 passengers and fuel economy showed as 6.06l/100km. This is a superb result.
The top spec Prestige model as tested provides 15 inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and pushbutton start, 8 inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple Carplay plus reverse camera and 4 airbags. The lack of Isofix fittings could be a major disadvantage for family buyers though.
Other notable features are air-con vents for rear passengers include a fan speed control for the middle row and 12V sockets for both middle and rear seats. I also appreciate the fact that there is auto-locking for all doors on pull-off. The middle row seats tumble forward to provide good access to the rearmost seats that are most suited to child occupants. A concern here is that the seatbelts provided for these seats are not inertia reel but old fashioned 3 point belts.
In an age where items are built to a price, the Triber certainly provides plenty of value for money for the entry price. With prices starting from R185 900 up to R211 900 as tested including a 2 year/ 30 000km service plan you have to accept that this really is the budget end of the market.
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1 авг 2021
