French automaker Renault launched the Duster SUV in the Indian car market in July 2012. We all love the current generation model which is bigger in size and offers a lot to enjoy. With the introduction of Ford EcoSport, the Duster sales dropped considerably. Now, the company will bring the facelifted version of the SUV to India in the coming months. It was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show and received several changes to both exteriors and interiors. It was speculated to make its Indian debut at the recently concluded 2014 Indian Auto Expo, that didn’t happen. Now, it is expected that Renault would introduce the Duster facelift by the mid-2014.
Exteriors
The Renault Duster facelift get a restyled front and rear fascia. The front fascia of the SUV gets a new grille, reworked headlamp design and a newly designed air intake. It is equipped with new scuff plates both at the front and rear, revised tail lamp assembly and new 16-inch alloy wheels in Dark Metal shade. The overall styling of the SUV remains untouched with its broad stance and aggressive wheel arches. At the back, the updated Duster looks identical to the current generation model; however, its exhaust pipe has been unified into the rear diffuser assembly. Moreover, the roof rails have been modified and Duster logo is embossed on it.
Interiors
Inside the cabin, the Renault Duster facelift looks vastly similar to the current generation model. The updated SUV gets a revised instrument cluster, seat upholstery options, steering mounted controls instead of one behind the wheel, a new centre console with an updated infotainment system and power window switches. Adding to it, the redone SUV features cruise control and speed limiter, electronic stability program, rear park assist and dual front airbags as standard.
Engine & Transmission
Mechanically, the facelifted Renault Duster will remain unchanged- a 1.5-litre diesel and a 1.6-litre petrol. The diesel engine is tuned to offer two state of power 84bhp and 200Nm, and 110bhp & 240Nm, while the gasoline engine develops 102bhp and 145Nm of torque. The petrol engine and 84bhp diesel engine have been coupled to a five-speed manual transmission gearbox, while the higher spec 110bhp diesel has been mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.
It is also speculated that Renault could also introduce the 1.2-litre TCe petrol engine that churns out a maximum power output of 123.3bhp and 204Nm of peak torque. This engine is coupled to a six-speed manual transmission which transmits power to either front wheels or all four wheels of the SUV. Yes, the company is likely to launch the updated Renault Duster in 4-wheel drive version.
Expected Launch and Price:
The Renault Duster facelift is expected to be launched by the mid-2014. The pricing of the new Duster is expected to remain unchanged. It is likely to be priced around Rs. 8-12 lakh.
