Toyota has introduced a new model to its Vitz line-up with the X-Cite trim, which brings a colourful look to the affordable hatchback.
The X-Cite is available in two trim levels with prices starting at R189,900, making it one of the cheapest cars in South Africa.
Competing in the same price bracket is the Renault Kwid, which has its own stylish derivative in the form of the Climber.
If you’re in the market for an entry-level vehicle with a little more aesthetic flair, these two cars are among your best options.
Engines
Both the Toyota and Renault hatchbacks are front-wheel drive and powered by a 1.0-litre petrol engine, with the Vitz producing 49kW and 89Nm while the Kwid has a fractionally higher 50kW and 91Nm.
Crucially, the Toyota is only available with a five-speed manual gearbox, while the Renault also has the option of a five-speed automatic.
As for fuel consumption, the X-Cite manages an average return of 4.4l/100km, while the Climber uses a slightly higher 4.9l/100km.
Features
The hatchbacks follow similar design principles when it comes to their visual treatment, as both feature black side mouldings on the wheel arches, and a number of coloured accents both inside and out while also gaining model-specific decals.
The two automakers have put “X-Cite” and “Climber” branding on their respective models’ doors, and both vehicles now have white and orange highlights on various interior components.
On the Kwid, these colour alterations can be seen in the cloth seat upholstery and around the central touchscreen, while the Vitz is sporting a splash of colour on the gearstick base, aircon vents, and armrests.
A similar philosophy can be seen outside, where the two hatchbacks have orange highlights on the door mirrors and fog light surrounds. The Toyota also has a coloured rear spoiler, while the Renault has done the same to its rear bumper.
Regardless of which one you choose, you can also expect 14-inch steel wheels, manual aircon, a USB port and 12V socket, cloth seats, rear parking sensors, and a Bluetooth sound system as standard.
The difference is that the Kwid also has LED daytime running lights, dual-tone alloy wheels, roof rails, electric windows, a digital instrument cluster, a rearview camera, and an 8-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
However, it’s important to note that the Climber is the top-spec version of the Kwid, while the X-Cite comes in two trim levels, meaning it is possible to gain more equipment if you opt for the range-topping XR.
Doing so brings a set of 15-inch alloys, electric windows, a multifunction steering wheel, and a 7-inch media screen with smartphone pairing.
Pricing
The South African pricing for the new Toyota Vitz X-Cite is as follows:
Each purchase comes with a 3-year/100,000km warranty and a 2-service/30,000km service plan.
The local pricing for the Renault Kwid Climber is as follows:
This includes a 5-year/150,000km warranty and a 2-year/30,000km service plan.
Toyota Vitz X-Cite
Renault Kwid Climber
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