Renault has launched a limited version of the Duster called the Duster Explore. The SUV is available in a diesel version only and in two trim levels – 85PS RxL Explore and 110PS RxL Explore. The 85PS RxL Explore is priced at Rs 9.99 lakh while the 110PS RxL Explore is priced at Rs 11.10 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
The changes made to the Duster Explore over the standard model are purely cosmetic. It gets a darkened chrome grille, smoked headlamps, a bull bar on the front bumper with additional lights, decals on the hood and lower door panels, dark anthracite alloy wheels with orange centre inserts and a darkened chrome strip on the tail gate.
Inside, it gets a new dual tone seat fabric, orange inserts on the doorcards, dashboard, instrument cluster and floor mats, additional chrome detailing around the cabin and a leather-wrapped steering with orange stitching. The limited-edition Duster also gets features such as Eco mode, gear shift indicator and cruise control with speed limiter.
The Duster Explore is powered by the same 1.5-litre K9K diesel engine as the standard model in two states of tune – 83.8bhp and 108.5bhp. The 85PS model is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox while the 110PS model is offered with a six-speed manual.
Renault is also preparing a facelifted version of the Duster for the Indian market and test mules have been spotted on the roads. The facelifted Duster's styling is expected to be more in line with the version unveiled in Brazil earlier this year. The facelifted model is expected to be powered by the same set of engines as seen on the current Duster.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
