It is no secret that Renault is preparing the next gen Duster and an all-new 7-seater SUV for India as well as global markets. Both models will first be introduced under the Dacia nameplate in Europe. French media reports that the all new Duster is expected to make global debut by autumn 2023 that’s between September to November. The European launch is likely in the early 2024; however, Renault is yet to make an official statement on the same.
Testing of the third generation Duster has already been commenced, and the spy images reveal that the new SUV will grow in size. While the current model is based on aging BO+ platform, the new-gen Duster will be based on the new CMF-B modular architecture. The versatile CMF-B platform currently underpins the Renault Clio/Captur, Dacia Sandero/Jogger and Nissan Juke. In fact, the Bigster concept based 7-seater SUV will also be constructed on this architecture.
The new Duster will share the exterior and interior components with the bigger Bigster 7-seater SUV. Some of the styling highlights will include thin LED headlamps, triangular-shaped tail-lights, new bumpers with integrated aluminium skid plates, pronounced fenders, and a newly styled grille. It will have regular door handles at the front and C-pillar mounted door handles at the back.
Inside the cabin, the new Renault Duster will feature a larger and high-mounted touchscreen for the infotainment system with a smartphone connectivity. For the first time, the Duster will have a digital instrument cluster. The SUV’s cabin will have hard scratchy plastics on the dashboard and door panels; however, the overall fit & finish and plastic quality will be improved.
The current model measures 4,341mm in length, while the new model will have bigger dimensions and is likely to measure around 4.4-4.5 meters in length. The bigger dimensions will help Renault-Dacia to create more space inside the cabin and bigger boot. Thanks to the new platform, the 3rd gen Duster will bring improvements in terms of ride quality & refinement without losing the rugged character.
It is reportedly to get a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbo engine that will be offered in the entry-level versions. The diesel engine won’t be offered with the new model. An efficient mild hybrid petrol powertrain could be introduced as an alternative to diesel. This will make it compliant with stricter emission norms. The SUV is also likely to get Renault’s self-charging hybrid that is offered on the Jogger. This setup combines a 1.6L NA petrol with two electric motors, a 1.2 kWh battery pack, and a multi-mode gearbox. It offers a combined power output of 138bhp and offers a driving range of 900 km on a full tank.
The new Duster will also receive AWD setup, as the new model will retain the off-road credentials of the current model. The SUV will have generous ground clearance, and respectable approach & departure angles. The 2nd gen model has a ground clearance of 214-217mm, a 30° approach angle, and a 33-34° departure angle.
