Renault Triber

The Renault Triber is one of India's most unusual small cars: a sub-four-metre MUV that genuinely seats seven, yet costs about as much as a well-equipped hatchback. Its party trick is modular seating, where the third row pops out completely to free up cavernous boot space. Powered by a modest 1.0-litre petrol, it prioritises practicality and value over outright pace, making it a sensible pick for growing families on a tight budget.

On paper the Triber should not work, but it does. By keeping the body under four metres Renault qualifies for lower taxes, then squeezes in three rows by being clever with packaging. The seats are genuinely removable, so you can run it as a two-seater van, a five-seat family car with a huge boot, or a full seven-seater for short hops. Build quality is acceptable for the price, the dashboard looks modern, and outward visibility is excellent thanks to the tall glasshouse.

The driving experience is where compromises show. The 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol makes just 71 bhp, and with seven aboard it feels strained on highways and inclines. You learn to plan overtakes and keep the revs up. The five-speed manual is light and city-friendly; the AMT automatic is convenient in traffic but jerky under hard acceleration. Ride quality, however, is a strong point, soaking up broken Indian roads with composure, and the steering is light enough for easy parking.

Inside, the cabin is airy and surprisingly flexible, with cooling vents for all three rows in higher trims, a clean 8-inch touchscreen, and plenty of cubbies. The third row is best for children or short adult journeys, and with all seven seats up, boot space is minimal. Features like a wireless-ready touchscreen, push-button start and a reversing camera lift the top variants, though some plastics feel budget-grade up close.

Safety has improved over the years, with multiple airbags, ABS with EBD and ISOFIX mounts available. The Triber earned a four-star Global NCAP adult-occupant rating, respectable for the segment. It is not the car for enthusiasts or frequent highway runners, but as an affordable, flexible people-mover it remains hard to ignore.