Renault Duster now offered in Automatic

Renault has refreshed the Duster range by adding an automatic model to the line-up.

While the market has dropped when year-on-year figures are compared, Renault’s market share in the passenger car segment has increased from 4.7% to 5.5%. This is attributed to the several models that were launched in the country last year.

Just to refresh your memory; there was the Kadjar, Duster Explore (limited edition), Captur (limited edition), new Mégane, Kwid, and a new Clio. In addition, some fourth generation models have also been released this year that include the Sandero and the Clio.

Globally, Renault has sold +2 million Dusters since its launch in 2009, and are selling 300,000 models per annum. It was then introduced to South Africans in 2013. Models were originally being imported from India, where the right-hand drive models were being produced. Since the facelift in 2015, models are now coming from the Pitesti factory in Romania. To date, 12,500 models have been sold in SA since its local release.

Updates

 Last year we saw we a mild update to the Duster that included a revised exterior and interior. Changes were made to the grille, headlamps and taillights, as well as the dashboard. Black-faced alloy wheels were made available, and cruise control with a speed limiter also came as standard across the range.

In addition to the current range of the 1.6 and 1.5 dCi, Renault is now offering a 4x2 dCi Automatic EDC model. Much like what DSG is to VW, the EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) is Renault’s version. Some may know it as tiptronic or steptronic, as other automakers label it.

Basically, the Duster is now offered with a gearbox that can be driven as an automatic or in manual mode. Usually (but not always the case), mum prefers the convenience of an automatic, while Dad would prefer the manual. The new auto-box Duster now offers the best of both.

The EDC is a 6-speed automatic gearbox with 2 clutches. Gear selection takes place via an electronic control unit. The combination of the two doesn’t only offer flexibility but good efficiency too. This gearbox is paired to a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine that puts out 80 kW and 250 Nm of torque. It has a claimed fuel consumption of 4.8 litres/100 km and its contribution to pollution (aka Co2 emissions) is 126g/km.

Standard convenience features across all derivatives include electric windows, drive-away lock, rear-park sensors and cruise-control. The higher-specced Dynamique model has the addition of technology such as a rear-view camera and Renault’s 7-inch MediaNav touchscreen with on-board navigation. Leather trim is optional.

 SAFETY

In the Duster range, ABS, Emergency Brake Assist, and driver and passenger airbags (front and side) come standard. In addition, there’s also ESP with traction control on the 4x4 and 4x2 EDC.

What the Duster is to Renault

The Renault Duster seeks to be a perfect fit for adventure-seeking individuals or families with diverse needs. Carlos Ghosn, Chairman and CEO of Renault, requested the Renault teams to “create the first Renault global family car.” Designers and engineers from the Renault Technocenter in France took it as a dual challenge. They knew they needed to engineer a car that meets European standards. At the same time, it had to be capable of handling tougher usages and road conditions. They also needed to propose a more exciting and unique concept than a C-Sedan, that was more accessible.

Through the Duster, this is what Renault is offering its buyers. It is a vehicle that can withstand any road condition and offers a pleasant driving experience.

Pricing

 Duster 1.6 Expression 4x2                  77kW petrol    R239 900

Duster 1.6 Dynamique 4x2                 77kW petrol    R259 900

Duster 1.5 dCi Dynamique 4x2           80kW diesel    R279 900

Duster 1.5 dCi Dynamique EDC           80kW diesel    R299 900

Duster 1.5 dCi Dynamique 4x4           80kW diesel    R304 900

Renault Duster models come standard with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty, a 3-year/45 000km service plan (with service intervals every 15 000km) and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty.