The new generation Renault Duster could help in getting back the lost momentum in sales as it possesses upgraded looks and added equipment
Renault Duster is a highly popular compact SUV in the domestic market ever since its launch. The five-seater has helped in establishing Renault as a major player among other big brands who have had a strong footing courtesy of their decades of presence. Through its lifespan, the SUV endured one significant update in 2016 but it was not enough to keep the consistent flow of sales.
With the best-selling Kwid small hatchback registering sales dip in recent months and the Captur falling short of expectations, Renault is emphasising more on upcoming new vehicles but they would obviously take some time to appear as the list includes a subcompact SUV and an affordable MPV codenamed RBC.
Also Read: New Renault Duster Could Launch In India In 2019
But how about the new generation Duster? The French carmaker is more likely to launch the new Duster in India sometime in 2019 and delaying it would prove to be a costly blunder. Considering the arrival of new companies targetting the SUV space and the Duster’s name having already established itself as a household brand for Renault, its launch should be prioritised we reckon.
The new-gen Duster made its public debut as a Dacia at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show. The presence of Captur could delay Duster’s launch as Renault might risk the possibility of having two products at almost similar price bracket. With the Duster hoped to be given the get-go, let us see what the new model has in store.
Also Read: Upcoming Seven-Seat Renault MPV Spotted Testing For The First Time
It features significant design upgrades compared to the existing version and is based on the B0/Logan platform for emerging markets. It comes with redesigned headlamps, integrated LED Daytime Running Lights, new bonnet creases, extended front grille, new aggressive front bumper and silver skid plate made from scratch-resistant material.
They are accompanied by newly designed 17-inch alloy wheels, thick side body cladding, tweaked glass area, revised aluminium roof bars, raised beltline and a revised rear section with new taillights similarly to the Jeep Renegade, black wing arch trims, etc. It also has wider track and reprofiled side panels while the windscreen has been moved forward by to increase space.
Also Read: 2019 Renault Kwid Facelift Spied For The First Time
As for the interior, the centre console is more angled towards the driver with an upgraded infotainment system allowing for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, use of more soft-touch materials, repositioned air vents, new steering wheel, brand new dashboard layout and so on.
The premium equipment list comprises of multi-view camera system linked to the coloured infotainment screen, blind spot monitoring, automatic AC, automatic headlights, curtain airbags and keyless entry and hands-free key card. On the engine front, the new Renault Duster could get a new 1.6-litre fuel-efficient diesel engine replacing the 1.5 dCi for the Indian market.
There could be a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine in the works as well. Currently priced at Rs. 7.95 lakh for the entry-level variant, it goes all the way up to Rs. 12.83 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi) for the range-topping model. we can expect price increase of up to Rs. 30,000 across variants on the upcoming avatar. Would you like to see Renault concentrate on launching the new Duster first before other models? Have your say below!