The third-generation Renault Duster launches this week, continuing the story of the adventure SUV that surprised many and is a popular Renault on South African roads. According to Renault, this model still embodies the Duster's mission statement of a Robust, Practical, and Eco-Savvy vehicle. You can read our previous generation Duster reviews here.
This story is ahead of the official launch, and we'll have more information after the launch.
Related: Everything you need to know about the Renault Duster
We first saw the unveiling of the new Duster in 2023 with a more modern and lean muscular design, moving away from the softer design of the previous generations. The headlamps feature a Y-shaped LED pattern, a strong front end with a prominent chin, and Renault lettering grace the front end. Other notable new styling elements include beefier body cladding, and in models like the 6-speed manual 4WD, there are modular roof bars with a load capacity of 70kg. The new Duster looks brutish and ready for the rough and tumble.
Interior Additions
From what we can see, the Duster's interior is still minimalist but has a decent mix of analogue and touch controls. Like the exterior, the interior style leans toward that go-anywhere look. Handling the touch element is a 10.1-inch infotainment system, using the latest in Renault's user interfaces. One unique feature is the YouClip system, which uses a modular accessory attachment system to enhance cabin utility. Features include various mounting points, some on the headrests to hold tablets, smartphone mounts and more. You can customise them to your liking. One other notable feature includes washable TEP MicroCloud upholstery and rubber mats in the Intens trim if you don't want to fuss about dirtying your Duster's interior. To pump up the tunes, in models like the Intens EDC 4x2, there's an Arkamys 3D sound system.
Powertrains
The Duster's 4WD variant features a new mild-hybrid powertrain: a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, 48V battery, electric motor, starter generator, and 6-speed transmission. Regenerative braking is present. Powerwise, you can expect 96kW, but we don't have torque figures just yet. This setup is geared for fuel efficiency. The 4WD version features 4WD Terrain Control with 5 driving modes such as Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-Road and Eco.
If you prefer full combustion, the Duster 4X2 EDC models are kitted with a 1.3-litre turbo engine paired with the EDC automatic transmission. Power figures here are rated at 113kW and 250Nm. Fuel consumption figures are claimed at 6.5l /100km.
Notable safety
Some notable safety features include:
- 6 airbags
- Multiview Camera with 360-degree sensors
- Tyre Pressure Monitor
- Bling Spot Monitoring as part of the ADAS systems
Pricing, Service and Warranty
| Model | Pricing |
| Renault Duster Zen EDC 4x2 | from R489 999 |
| Renault Duster Intens 4x2 | from R519 999 |
| Renault Duster Zen 6MT 4WD Mild Hybrid | from R549 999 |
The purchase price includes a 3-year /45 000km service plan, a 5-year /150 000km mechanical warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty.
We'll have some content right after the launch this week.
