The versatile Renault Triber, manufactured in India, has begun its South African journey with a new facelift. Priced from R218,999 (approximately ₹11.08 lakh), this sub-compact MPV aims to solidify its position as a budget-friendly family hauler with a clever mix of space and features.
A Familiar Yet Freshened Face
Landing in South African showrooms, the updated Triber carries the same evolutionary design that recently debuted in India. The front end features a more pronounced grille with chrome accents, new LED daytime running lights that frame the headlights, and a bumper with sharper contours. At the rear, the changes continue with redesigned tail-lamps and a revised bumper, giving the entire vehicle a more contemporary feel. A selection of new paint colours further enhances its visual appeal.
Smart and Practical Cabin
Step inside, and the cabin welcomes you with subtle but meaningful upgrades, including new upholstery and a dual-tone dashboard that lifts the overall ambiance. The Triber’s legendary party trick remains its incredible flexibility. It comes standard with a 7-seat configuration, and the third-row seats aren’t just a token addition—they are fully removable. This transforms the Triber from a people-carrier into a cavernous cargo van, a level of practicality few rivals can match.
On the feature front, it is equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, keyless entry, a push-button start/stop system, and a practical cooled storage compartment. Opting for higher Techno or Iconic trims adds more premium comforts like LED headlamps, rear parking sensors, and a reverse parking camera.
Proven Powertrain
Under the hood, the Triber facelift relies on a trusted and fuel-efficient 1.0-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine. It delivers 72PS of power and 96Nm of torque. Transmission duties are handled by either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), offering a choice between engagement and ease of use in city traffic.
An interesting strategy from Renault is the continued sale of the pre-facelift model, now dubbed the “Triber Express.” Positioned for fleet and commercial buyers, this base model provides a more accessible entry point for those who prioritize pure utility and cost-effectiveness over the latest styling and features.
With this update, the Renault Triber reinforces its unique proposition: an astonishingly adaptable 7-seater that doesn’t command a premium price. It successfully blends everyday practicality with modern comforts, making it a compelling choice for families and value-conscious buyers alike.
