KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Dacia Bigster spied testing closely
- Based on the 5-seater Duster model
- India launch expected by 2025 end
It is a no-hidden fact that Renault will bring its Duster SUV to India. The upcoming Renault Duster will be based on its Dacia counterpart. With its comeback, Renault plans to sell a 5-seater as well as a 7-seater version of the popular SUV. The 7-seater version has been spied on a test recently. Learn the complete details about the upcoming Duster model below. Also, make sure to join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group for the latest automotive updates.
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Renault Duster 7-Seater To Be Called 'Bigster'?
It was earlier reported online via international auto websites that this 7-seater version is likely to be called Bigster. While its underpinnings will be similar to the 5-seater model, the chassis will be revised for better interior space. The spied-on test car is a Dacia test mule and it is heavily camouflaged as seen in the photos. However, it appears that Dacia is reaching the production stage faster as the model looks almost ready from the outside.
The new-gen Duster will get a muscular design and it has already been revealed in the photos. The 7-seater model looks an elongated version of the 5-seater Duster to accommodate the third-row seats. The overall design is bulky and the edgy and sharp highlights like the LED taillights and LED headlights are visible through the camouflage as well. The interiors will get a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment and a digital instrument console. Additionally, the latest features like ADAS, panoramic sunroof, and ventilated seats could also be offered on the production-spec car.
New-Gen Renault Duster Engine & Gearbox Details
Powering the next-gen Duster will be a range of engine options. Globally, Dacia & Renault offer a 1.6L turbo-petrol, a 1.2L turbo-petrol, and a 1.0L turbo-petrol with LPG compatibility (for select markets only). The 1.2L engine option also comes with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to increase the fuel economy. Moreover, there will not be a diesel engine option on the new-gen Duster; for any of the markets. We suspect that the 1.6L and the 1.2L engine options will be launched in India. An all-wheel-drive option will also be offered on one of the powertrains. Along with the different drivetrains, Renault is likely to offer a 6-speed manual, a CVT, and an AMT gearbox (for India) options.
While Renault has decided to stay silent on the debut timeline of the new-gen Duster in India; some online reports suggest to us that it could launch before the 2025 end. Therefore, segment rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Grand Vitara will receive strong competition because the Duster has a strong brand image in India. Duster's expected price will remain in the same ballpark as the rivals. This means it could be priced somewhere around Rs 10-18 lakh (for the 5-seater model) and Rs 15-22 lakh (for the 7-seater model).
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Verdict
Renault India currently sells three various models, all targeted for budget segment buyers. The upcoming Duster will step up this game as the company would be able to enter the mid-size SUV market that is the fastest growing segment. Duster brand image is already strong in India and the new-gen car will revive the brand once again in 2025.
