French automaker Renault is plotting a fresh return to India after admitting it lost momentum in recent years due to a lack of new products and features. The company now hopes its renewed strategy will win back consumer interest in a market that produced over 50 lakh passenger vehicles in FY25.
The Kwid was a breakthrough hit when it launched in 2015, and the Duster helped set early SUV trends in India. But as competitors like Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki, and Hyundai surged ahead, Renault slipped into the background.
“Our numbers have been declining slightly for a simple reason we did not launch new cars or new features for two or three years,” says Francisco Hidalgo, Renault India’s vice president of sales and marketing.
Beyond the impact of Covid, Renault’s dominance in Russia where it holds a 30% market share was disrupted by the Russia-Ukraine war, while European legal requirements added further delays.
“It is fair to say we did not bring novelty to India,” Hidalgo admits, calling it the worst mistake one can make with an Indian buyer, who demands freshness, features, and value. He jokingly cites the sunroof as an example of this demand: “Most people keep it closed, and yet it is a must-have.”
Showroom Experience Reinvented
To reconnect with Indian customers, Renault plans to revamp its showroom experience fewer cars on display, a more relaxed ambience, and an inviting environment that feels more like home. With most customers already well-researched online, Hidalgo believes showrooms must offer something beyond specifications.
The refreshed Triber and Kiger will lead this new approach.
Renault.Rethink: A Strategy for India
Under its new Renault.Rethink strategy, the company aims to go “all in” on India. Renault has taken full control of its Chennai manufacturing plant, is developing new models, and wants to move past the perception of being just an “affordable” brand. The goal, says Hidalgo, is to rediscover its original strength—bringing disruptive, fresh products to the market.
Renault’s renewed commitment will be visible through a TV-first communication strategy, followed by targeted digital outreach. Whether Indian consumers welcome Renault back remains to be seen but the brand is determined to earn its place once again