Urban SUV
The mid-size SUV has been dominated by the Ford EcoSport for some time. The segment however has been getting increasingly busy with new models from all corners being introduced to take the fight to the blue oval.
Related: Ford EcoSport (2022) 1.0T Titanium Review
One of the original competitors to the EcoSport is the Renault Duster and below we've collated some high-interest touch points that consumers often ask about to see which vehicle is better at what
Space and Convenience
One of the first things a consumer will see and interact with is the interior of the vehicle and this often makes or breaks a sale. The Ford is still rather basic while Renault has included many convenience items.
| Ford EcoSport 1.5 Ambiente | Renault Duster 1.5dCi Zen | |
| Boot Size | 330l expandable to 705l | 478l |
| Infotainment | SYNC 2 Bluetooth audio | 7" touchscreen + Apple Car Play and Android Auto |
| Keyless Start | No | No |
| Steering wheel controls | Yes | Yes |
| Cruise Control | No | Yes |
| Climate Control | No | Yes |
| Park Assistance | Yes + Camera | Yes (alert) |
Engine size and type
Both of these vehicles run a 1.5l 4-cylinder diesel engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. the Duster falls a little short in power output but does have the option for a 4x4 system whereas the EcoSport does not.
| Ford EcoSport | Renault Duster | |
| Engine size | 1.5 TDCI | 1.5 TDCi |
| Power figures | 74kW / 205Nm | 66kW / 210Nm |
| Transmission | 5 Speed Manual | 5 Speed Manual |
| 4x4 | No | optional |
Fuel consumption
The EcoSport trumps the Duster when it comes to fuel usage and storage, having more capacity and a much better consumption figure resulting in a further distance traveled.
| Ford EcoSport | Renault Duster | |
| Fuel tank size | 52l | 50l |
| Consumption | 4.6l/100km | 5.1l/100km |
| Estimated range | 1130km | 980km |
Safety
The Duster has better driver assistance systems as standard but does not have the same airbag count as the EcoSport. Both vehicles get a good safety NCAP score and have similar crash results.
| Ford EcoSport | Renault Duster | |
| Airbags | 6 | 4 |
| Isofix | Yes | Yes |
| Driver Assistance | ABS, EBD, SC | ABS,EBD, TSC, Hillstart Assist |
Pricing
The Duster is R30 000 more expensive than the EcoSport but has a much better standard fitment than the Ford. It also has a longer warranty and a better optional service plan.
| Ford EcoSport | Renault Duster | |
| Price | R 322 500 | R 352 999 |
| Warranty | 4 year / 120 000km | 5 year / 150 000km |
| Plans | 3 year / 45 000 service | optional 4 year / 60 000km service |
Verdict
At the end of the day, there is very little separating these two urban SUVs, and it will depend entirely on the individual buyer's personal tastes and needs. Our money is on the Duster as a better overall package with its better tech, convenience and European design.
