KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- New Duster SUV revealed globally
- India launch possible by the second half of next year
- No diesel engine on offer
Renault has globally revealed the new-gen Duster and the good news is that it is planned for its Indian debut as well. The new Renault Duster SUV will launch in India later next year. Read all the details about this new SUV below. Also, you can join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group for the latest automotive updates.
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New Renault Duster SUV: Design and Features
The new Duster looks muscular from every angle. Based on the new CMF-B architecture, the Duster will rival the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Grand Vitara. This platform and design are shared with the Dacia Bigster concept model. It is 4.34 mts long and the wheelbase is 2.65 mts. The overall design is inspired by the future design language of Renault and Dacia.
The Y-shaped LED headlights and the taillights look unique. Additionally, the muscular panels with rectangular shape make it butch overall. Moreover, the 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels also suit its design and get the Y-shape treatment as well.
On the inside, it resembles its Dacia counterpart. The Y-shape elements are visible throughout the cabin including the dashboard and AC vents. The top models will get a 7-inch digital instrument console and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment. On the feature front, it'll get ADAS, wireless phone connectivity, Android Auto, Apple CarPlary, wireless phone charging, etc.
Engine Options: No Diesel On Offer?
Renault will sell the new Duster with two petrol engine options in global markets. One is a 1.6-lt, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that is mated to a hybrid system. It is powered by a 1.2kWh battery that can turn up to 80 percent of city driving in EV mode.
The second engine option is a modest 1.2-lt three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine churning out a peak power of 130 bhp. This engine gets a mild-hybrid start/stop system to save fuel. A 48V starter motor is used for this function. Ironically, Renault has completely ditched the diesel engine with the new Duster.
Renault Duster SUV: Off-Road Capable Too?
With the above engine options, Renault has taken good care of its ruggedness. The new Duster is offered with different terrain modes that can be switched via a rotary dial on the go. These modes include snow, sand, mud, eco, and auto. With these modes, it can alter its traction and power delivery to conquer rough road situations. There is also a differential locking option on this dial so that the car can pull itself from stuck situations.
India Launch Timeline and Price
While the official date or timeline is not announced, it is confirmed that the new Renault Duster SUV will launch in India by 2025. We are expecting that before the festive season of next year, Renault will debut the new Duster in the domestic market.
The pricing of the new Duster will be crucial for its future in India. We expect that it can be positioned between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the engine options and variant chosen.
Verdict
Renault India has been struggling in sales since the exit of Duster brand. The rugged SUV was loved for its reliable engine and tough performance. With the re-entry of the Duster name, Renault India can earn good profits as the mid-size SUV market is booming in India.
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