Renault Duster Oroch pickup truck could enter Indian market to rival the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross; may borrow 1.5L diesel engine from its SUV sibling
Renault broke the covers off its first ever medium sized pickup truck, the Duster Oroch, back in June 2015. Destined exclusively for the South American countries, it debuted at the Buenos Aires Motor Show. Based completely on the highly popular compact SUV Duster, as you can see from the images, the Oroch is slotted between the half ton and one ton pickup trucks in those markets.
It is interesting to note that Renault India CEO and MD Mr. Sumit Sawhney ruled out the possible launch of the pickup for the domestic market in late 2015 but the news that Renault is keeping an eye out for entry into the Indian LCV space did keep the hopes alive. We can only assume that the presence of lifestyle pickups like Isuzu D-Max V-Cross and top-end versions of Tata Xenon Yodha and the Mahindra Scorpio Getaway might have kept the plans alive and kicking.
Also Read: 2018 Isuzu D-Max V-Cross Launched In India At Rs. 14.27 Lakh
Despite the popularity of SUVs and crossovers, the lifestyle pickup segment in the commercial vehicle industry is yet to become a hit among customers. However, Renault could be trying to leverage the popularity of the Duster compact SUV and sell its pickup version endorsing its practicality. While the exterior will boast a typical Duster look with dual chrome strip connecting the sleek headlamps and encasing the signature Renault emblem at the centre, the cargo truck bed and dual cab configuration ensure an essential pickup truck stance.
The rear end might feature a waterfall-styled tail lamp as in the standard Duster or a regular pattern. The patent image showcase the dual-cab version but a single-cab variant could be offered as well. On the inside, it is expected to get a brand new instrument cluster, three-spoke steering wheel with mounted controls, an optional MediaNAV touchscreen infotainment System featuring navigation and Bluetooth connectivity, new upholstery and trim as in the existing Duster.
Also Read: Renault Zoe EV To Grace Show Floor At 2018 Auto Expo
Renault may ditch the EASY-R AMT six-speed gearbox found in the Duster facelift as it could be deemed expensive. Expect the Oroch pickup to be priced at around Rs. 13-14 lakh and the 1.5-litre dCi diesel engine will likely be offered in its higher state of tune: 110 PS maximum power and 245 Nm peak torque mated to six-speed manual transmission. It could eye the exclusivity held by the D-max V-Cross lifestyle pickup with a dynamic appearance, featured packed equipment list and everyday functionality.
We revealed the news of it being patented in India last March and we now suspect that it could debut at the 2018 Auto Expo next month in Greater Noida where Renault will also showcase the Zoe EV, Trezor concept and 2017 F1 race car among others. The major highlight of the French brand at the motoring exhibition is expected to be a subcompact SUV concept based on the highly popular Kwid.
Also Read: Renault To Unveil Kwid-Based Small SUV At 2018 Auto Expo?
Renault Duster Oroch Pickup Truck Images
