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With a Price in the Range of R$ 119 Thousand, the Entry-Level Version of the Renault Kardian Evolution 2025 Appeals to Those Seeking a Turbo SUV with Manual Transmission, but Interestingly, It Is Slower than the Automatic.
The Renault Kardian has become the best-selling SUV of the brand in Brazil, even surpassing the veteran Duster. The model, launched in March 2024, sold over 24,000 units in less than a year, and much of this success is due to its entry-level version, the Renault Kardian Evolution 2025 with manual transmission.
According to a full evaluation of the model, this version is the gateway to Renault’s turbo universe. However, it presents an interesting paradox: although it is the choice of purists who prefer manual transmission, its performance is inferior to that of the automatic version.
What Is the Kardian Evolution Manual? The Gateway to Renault’s New SUV
The Renault Kardian Evolution 2025 is the most affordable version of the brand’s new compact SUV. With a price hovering around R$ 119,000, it was created to be a competitive and high-volume option.
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A 250cc motorcycle that can reach 560 km with a 14-liter tank, features disc brakes on both wheels and is among the most well-known in Brazil.
Despite being the entry-level version, it comes well-equipped and offers the same turbo engine as the more expensive versions, but with the option of a six-speed manual transmission, a differentiator for a segment of the audience.
The Turbo Heart: 1.0 Engine with 125 Horsepower and the 6-Speed Transmission
The engine of the Kardian is a 1.0 TCe (turbo) three-cylinder that delivers 125 horsepower and 22.4 kgf.m of torque when fueled with ethanol. The engine features direct injection and is paired with a six-speed manual transmission with short and precise shifting.
An important detail is that the engine uses a timing chain instead of the controversial oil-bathed timing belt found in other turbo engines on the market.
The Performance Paradox: Why Is the Manual Slower than the Automatic?
Here is the most curious point about the Renault Kardian Evolution 2025. Although the manual transmission is generally associated with a sportier feel, in this version it is slower than the automatic.
- 0 to 100 km/h: The manual version takes 11 seconds. The version with dual-clutch automated transmission (DCT) does it in about 10 seconds.
- Fuel Consumption in the City: The manual model is also slightly less economical in the city. According to Inmetro data, it achieves 8.4 km/l with ethanol, while the automatic version does a bit better.
The price difference between the two versions is about R$ 10,000, which puts the consumer in a dilemma: save on the purchase or have a bit more performance and convenience.
What Does It Offer? Equipment and Interior Space
One of the major strengths of the Renault Kardian Evolution 2025 is its list of standard equipment. Even in the entry-level version, it comes with:
- Six airbags (front, side, and curtain).
- Stability and traction control.
- Hill start assist.
- 7-inch digital instrument panel.
- Multimedia center with wireless mirroring for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The interior space is another strong point. With a 2.60-meter wheelbase, it offers good space for rear passengers. The trunk has a capacity of 358 liters.
Who Is the Manual Kardian Worth It For?
The Renault Kardian Evolution 2025 with manual transmission is the ideal choice for a well-defined consumer profile. It perfectly serves those seeking the lowest price for a turbo SUV in their garage, and especially for those who cherish the experience of driving a car with manual transmission.
For this audience, the small sacrifice in performance is compensated by the savings at purchasing and the pleasure of having full control over gear shifts. However, for those prioritizing maximum agility and comfort, the version with DCT may be the more rational choice.
And you, what do you think? Is it worth saving R$ 10,000 and opting for the manual transmission, even being a bit slower? Leave your opinion in the comments.
Câmbio raiz sem dúvida!
O problema e trocar um câmbio CVT já consolidado por um de dupla embreagem. A manutenção deve ser um absurdo de caro.
Manual! Sempre! !
Motorzinho turbinado na mão!!!
É isso aí motor turbinado no controle do motorista dá uma sensação gostosa de interação homem máquina,pra quem gosta de dirigir é excelente 🌟⭐