Top 5 features that make the Renault Duster stand out from its competitors

1. Keen pricing and good value, especially the 4WD model

There is only one four-wheel-drive model: The Renault Duster 1.5dCi Dynamique 4WD at R361 900. It has a few competitors that may be a little less expensive, but they can't really compete with the Duster when specification levels, space, and comfort features are taken into consideration.

The Suzuki Jimny 1.5 GLX AllGrip may be more affordable (it's priced from R344 900), but it is tiny and not suitable for active families on the go, although it works well for couples or singles. The current Mahindra Thar, a steal from R242 999, is a two-seater, so you can't quite call it a compact SUV to compare it with the Duster. 

The 4x2-models in the Duster range, however, are up against some stiff competition like the entry-level VW T-Cross 1.0TSI 70 kW Comfortline (R345 700) and the Hyundai Venue 1.0T Fluid (R337 500), but the most affordable Duster, the considerably cheaper, petrol-powered 1.6 Expression (R289 900), has 84kW versus 70kW in the above-mentioned T-Cross. The Venue is more powerful with 88kW but also a lot more expensive than the above-mentioned Duster.

 

2. It's safe as well as practical

The Duster is built with the modern family in mind and with 21 cm of ground clearance and a 478-litre boot, you won't want for space, struggle to secure child seats or put your back out trying to fit the baby stroller into the boot. A note to remember is that the 4x4 models have a smidgen less boot space (414 litres) but it's still plenty.

The first generation of Dusters weren't equipped with traction and stability control, but these features are now standard across the board, along with ABS, EBD, and brake assist, hill-start assist, and cruise control, along with 4 airbags. Every model except the entry-level Expression also gets a rear-view camera and rear-parking sensors. The 4x4 model features descent control, while the Prestige model has even more niceties. Check out the specs for each model here.

 

Related: Renault Duster 1.5DCi TechRoad: Another solid value-proposition from Renault

 

 

3. Serious off-road capability in an affordable package

You wouldn't think that the Duster is fluent in off-roading just by looking at it. Every time we take the 4WD Duster on a road trip that includes a 4x4 track, we're reminded of how talented this little Frenchman is. And with features like surround-view cameras and 4x4 monitor that shows you the Duster's roll and pitch, together with a compass heading, you realise that what you're paying for the Duster is very little, considering what you get! 

Related: How capable is a Renault Duster 4x4 off-road?

 

 

4.  Fabulous fuel economy

The sophisticated 1.5-litre diesels are well-known for their frugal drinking habits. My most recent tenure with the four-wheel-drive model returned a figure of only 5.4 litres per 100 km, while the 4x2-model's trip computer showed a smile-inducing 4.4 on our road trip through the Karoo 2 years ago. In the city, you can expect around 6-7 litres per 100 km if you drive with care. The engine itself is quiet, refined, and clean, and if you didn't know any better, you'd probably think it was petrol. The addition of a 6th gear in the manual 4WD model also helps to keep fuel usage low.

 

 

5. Renault's easy-to-use MediaNav Evolution 7-inch touchscreen system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

This multi-talented convenience feature doubles as a safety feature too. No more texting and driving and fidgeting with the touch screen when your attention should be fixed on the road ahead and your immediate surroundings; Siri can take care of your Whatsapps and picking your favourite songs on Spotify, or whatever music app you prefer. And on the days you leave your phone at home, you need not worry — Sat-nav is integrated in the system (see below). It is standard fare on all but the Expression model.

 

 

Renault Duster pricing

Renault Duster 1.6 Expression, R289 900

Renault Duster 1.5dCi TechRoad, R327 900

Renault Duster 1.5dCi TechRoad auto, R361 900

Renault Duster 1.5dCi Dynamique 4WD, R361 900 (tested)

Renault Duster 1.5dCi Prestige R374 900

Pricing (as per Renault SA) for January 2020. Please refer to the Renault website for the latest prices. 

 

Recommended next

Buying used? Read our articles of the previous-generation Duster here:

Road test! Renault Duster, aka the hustler (Review, Renault Duster 1.5DCi Prestige EDC 4x2, 2018)

Renault Duster rocks as a family 4x4 (2018)