First launched globally in 2010 and with a major update in 2017, the Renault Duster has consistently redefined the SUV landscape. Its success speaks for itself, with approximately 1 000 units rolling off the production line every day at Renault's Pitesti plant in Romania, and with over 2.2 million units sold worldwide. This demand is a testament to its consistent popularity.
The nameplate has built a loyal following in South Africa since it was launched thanks to its blend of affordability, practicality and off-road ability.
What’s new with the new model?
The new model is built on Renault’s CMF-B platform, which comes with improved safety and compatibility infused with hybrid technology. The range consists of three derivatives: Zen, Intens and Zen Mild Hybrid – we spent a week with the latter to see what the offering was all about.
The exterior has been completely revised, and comprises of a bolder front end with Y-shaped LED headlights, chunkier wheel arches with protective cladding, functional roof rails, skid plates and a ground clearance of 217mm (in 4x4 models).
There are a range of body colours to choose from, like Sandstone Beige, Terracotta Brown, Cedar Green, Glacier White, Dusty Grey, Mercury Silver and Pearl Black.
Standard features on the hybrid model consists of automatic LED headlights (with daytime running functionality), 17-inch diamond cut alloy wheels, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, six airbags, hill start assist, hill descent control and automatic climate control. Additional safety features include a multiview camera with 360° sensors, a tyre pressure sensor and blind spot detection.
South African buyers can choose from petrol and mild-hybrid engines, unfortunately with no diesel versions available anymore. The two options are a turbocharged 1.2-litre with a 48V mild hybrid battery that produces 96kW and 230Nm, paired with a six-speed manual (available in 4×4), and a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol that produces 113kW and 250Nm, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
One of the Duster’s biggest attributes has always been its fuel consumption, and the new version continues to carries the baton with aplomb. During our time with the car, we returned an overall consumption figure of 5.3-litres per 100km, beating the claimed figure of 5.7l/100km by a good margin. The 1.3 uses 6.5l/100km.
The Duster competes against a bunch of rivals locally including the Volkswagen T-Cross, Hyundai Creta, Toyota Corolla Cross and Suzuki Grand Vitara.
How does it drive?
You would assume that pairing a small capacity engine with the heavier 4x4 drivetrain would have negative effects where drivability is concerned, but while the engine might not be the most responsive initially due to its displacement, it builds up a head of steam and does what it needs to.
We had to do some 4x4 driving, and the Duster coped well when we selected the correct mode using the rotating dial on the centre console.
Perhaps a pain point of previous generation versions was that the noise insulation needed to be improved. That has been wholly improved in the new model, while the car also feels even more stable at higher speeds thanks to enhancements to the suspension.
With the Duster, what you see is what you get. Coupled with a modern design, the SUV is all about durability, efficiency and capability.
Spec, pricing and aftersales
Duster Zen EDC 4x2 - R489 999
Duster Intens 4x2 - R519 999
Duster Zen 6MT 4WD Mild Hybrid - R549 999
Included as standard is a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty, a 3-year/45 000km service plan and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty.
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