Words: Shubham Choukse
Renault has unveiled the next generation Duster at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show. The exterior design is more of an evolution rather than a revolution; design updates include a wider grille at the front flanked by new LED Headlamps, sculpted lines on the bonnet, larger skid plates, more prominent wheel arches, squared out tail-lamps shifted to the corners, new roof rails and new alloy-wheel design. But it has the same platform and dimensions, as Renault didn’t want to deviate from a winning formula.
The major improvements are visible on the inside, it comes with a completely new interior layout. Updated equipment list includes a new touchscreen infotainment display, multi-view camera, blind-spot warning, curtain airbags, automatic air conditioning and automatic head lights.
“By building on the strengths of its predecessor, the all-new Duster simply brings customers more – all for a price that is still unbelievably affordable. As you can see, every single feature we added helps to facilitate everyday motoring. The All-new Duster is more Duster than ever. It’s an off-roader that will take customers further in even greater style and comfort,” said Jean-Christophe Kugler, Executive Vice President, Renault at the event.
Powertrain options to be offered in the European markets include a 1.5-litre diesel and a 1.2-litre petrol engine. Though the India-spec model is expected to carry the same powertrain options as available with the present generation model. The current generation model is available with two powertrain options. A 1.5-litre petrol motor churning out 104bhp of power and 142Nm of torque, and a 1.5-litre diesel motor pumping out 84bhp of power and 200Nm of torque in the lower state of tune, while 108bhp of power and 245Nm of torque in the higher state of tune.
The Duster was first showcased at the Indian Auto Expo 2012, and since its launch in India it has showed great success, it proved to be a game changer for Renault in India. Renault including Dacia has sold over 2 million units of the Duster across the globe.
The new Duster will go on sale in the UK from the middle of 2018. No official details have been revealed as to when the new model will arrive on our shores.