Renault Duster

The Renault Duster was first launched in 2010 and has received several updates since then. The existing model is available in three variants-the entry-level PE, SE and top-spec LE trims. All three grades are offered in a single fuel option, with two engine and gearbox configurations in 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrain choices. The Renault Duster range comes in nine exterior colour options-Atacama Orange, Comet Grey, Navy Blue, mink Brown, Mercury, Glacier White, Pearl White, Dune Beige and Cosmos Blue. The five-seater SUV measures 4,341 mm in length and 2,052mm in width. Interior is built on a 2,674 mm long wheelbase with front overhang measuring at 842 mm and, rear overhang at 826 mm. 

In terms of looks, the SUV gets an aggressive face with a bold grille in front highlighted by a thin chrome surround at the bottom. Also, a large Renault logo is embossed in the centre. The L-shaped headlamps come with integrated daytime running lights and are placed such that it appears a part of the grille. Fog lamps on the lower bumper and thick cladding round up the styling in front. At the side, it features wing mirrors, pronounced wheel arches, and chunky alloy wheels. Roof rails atop add to the sporty flair and rear end receive square-shaped tail-lamps, bold chrome trim on the boot lid, a single exhaust unit .and an under-skid plate. 

The cabin is enveloped in black and beige dual-tone colour theme, with silver trims on air-con vents, centre console, door handles, etc. Quality of plastic used inside seem to be mediocre and controls for air conditioning are bulky. The dashboard is suavely styled with rectangular air-con vents placed on either end. A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system is equipped on the dashboard. Renault’s compact SUV misses out on a bunch of advanced connectivity and comfort tech available in other SUVs. However, it gets a smart card with keyless entry, one-touch driver side window, rear electric windows, remote engine start, Multiview camera and several others. Leather steering wheel, retractable armrest, storage under the passenger seat, etc. are restricted to the top-spec trim. 

The 2019 Renault Duster specifications comprise a 1.6-litre petrol engine and a 2.0-litre unit. Powering the lower variants is the 1.6-litre, Euro V petrol engine good for 115kW of power against 156 Nm torque. This engine works in conjunction with a CVT gearbox that sends power to the front wheels. The top-spec variant equips the high displacing 2.0-litre petrol engine with 135hp power and 195 Nm torque. It gets an automatic transmission which channels power to all four wheels. Braking power is derived from ventilated disc units at both ends. As for performance, this set-up claims to accelerate to 100 km/h from rest within 13.2 seconds while attaining top-speed of 161 km/h. The safety brigade on the Renault Duster includes ABS, dual front airbags, three rear adjustable headrests, driver and passenger seatbelts unlock alarm, emergency braking assist, ESP, hill start assist for 4x2, ISOFIX mounts, hill descent control for 4x4, rearview camera, rear parking sensors, blind-spot warning and a host of other tech.