It was speculated that Renault is working on a 7-seater Duster SUV. However, recent media report claims that the company has cancelled the development of this SUV. Speaking to media Louise O’Sullivan, head of the UK brand, confirmed that the plans for the development of a top-of-the-line model is dropped that puts an end to the much-awaited Grand Duster. Also See – New Duster Explained In Quick Points
The Grand Duster was initially launched under the Dacia badge and in developing nations under Renault nameplate. The reason behind dropping the plan is that a 7-seater Duster would be too expensive. Adding to it, an expensive product for Dacia brand will not be acceptable among buyers.
2018 Renault Duster Images
Adding to it, a bigger and more expensive Duster could create more competition within the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Both brands are selling more premium products including Kicks and Captur in several international markets. A bigger Duster could impact the sales of Nissan Kicks and Renault Captur. Also See – Upcoming New Renault Duster – 6 Things to know
In India, Renault will launch the next-generation Duster SUV in 2019. It is based on the existing MO/Logan platform, which is heavily localised in the country. Media reports claim that the India-spec Duster will receive the newly developed 1.5-litre Blue dCi diesel engine, which is more powerful and cleaner than the outgoing engine. The new 1.5L diesel engine offers two states of tunes – 95PS and 115Ps – which make it around 10PS and 5PS more powerful than the outgoing engine. The petrol version will continue to feature the 1.5-litre unit. Renault claims that the windscreen of the SUV has been moved ahead by 100mm, which carved out more space inside the cabin. The SUV will offer more legroom and headroom space for both front and rear occupants.
