The new Renault Duster returns to a segment it once kickstarted. Priced between Rs 10.29 lakh and Rs 18.49 lakh, it now competes in the most crowded segment, with models such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Suzuki Victoris and Tata Sierra. The new model has been thoroughly reworked for the Indian market and comes with two turbo-petrol engines, with a hybrid option set to follow, though there are still a few areas where it could have done better.
Here are four reasons to consider the Duster and four to look elsewhere.
Reasons to buy
Ride comfort
Absorbs rough roads with ease
Ride comfort has always been a key strength of the Duster, and the new model continues that tradition. It handles broken roads, potholes and rough patches with ease, keeping occupants well-insulated from sharp impacts. Even at highway speeds, the suspension remains composed and stable, making it well-suited for long-distance driving. The Duster is enjoyable around corners too. Body control is impressive, and the steering, while on the lighter side, is precise and offers good feedback.
Refined and punchy 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine
Strong mid-range with smooth power delivery
The 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine is one of the highlights of the new Duster. It is smooth and exceptionally refined, with minimal noise and vibrations filtering into the cabin at low speeds, only becoming audible once you push the engine. Once past the initial turbo lag, it delivers strong mid-range performance and pulls cleanly, making it equally tractable in city traffic and on the highway. It produces 163hp and 280Nm (segment-leading figures) and is paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DCT.
Large boot
Segment-best boot space
The Duster offers a 518-litre boot, which can expand to 700 litres when measured up to the roof, and it can fit a lot of cargo. This makes it one of the more practical SUVs in the segment, especially for long trips or family use. The wide opening and electrically operated tailgate further add to its practicality.
7-year/1,50,000km warranty
Long cover adds peace of mind
Renault’s warranty package of up to seven years or 1,50,000km is among the most comprehensive in this segment. This adds a layer of reassurance for buyers planning to keep the vehicle long term and helps offset concerns around maintenance and ownership costs.
Reasons to skip
Cabin not as spacious as rivals
Rear-seat space trails key rivals
While the Duster’s cabin is comfortable for four occupants, it isn’t the most spacious in the segment to occupy five. Rear-seat shoulder room is limited, and the transmission hump makes it less ideal for three passengers.
Infotainment interface not intuitive
Interface not as easy to use on the move
While the infotainment system is responsive and supports built-in Google services, its interface isn’t the easiest to use. The menu layout and controls lack the logical flow and simplicity seen in rivals, which can make it less intuitive to operate on the move.
No spare tyre as standard
Only a puncture repair kit offered
Instead of a conventional spare wheel, the Duster comes with a puncture repair kit. This may be inconvenient for buyers who frequently travel long distances or drive on rough roads, where a full-size spare is preferred.
No diesel or AWD option
Limited powertrain choice for buyers
Unlike the previous-generation model, the new Duster is offered only with petrol engines. There is no diesel or all-wheel-drive option, which may disappoint buyers looking for enhanced off-road capability or the effortless highway cruising capability and instant torque a diesel motor offers.
Uday Singh
Saptarshi Mondal
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Saumil Shah
