The Renault Duster is all set to get a massive power boost, with the introduction of a new 1.3-litre petrol engine that features turbocharging and direct-injection. While the four-cylinder motor is available in a range of power outputs, for India it will have just one at the moment, rated at 156hp and 250Nm of torque. This makes the Duster the most powerful petrol midsize SUV in its segment. As has been reported, the 1.5 diesel will not be on sale in the BS6 era and Renault expects the engine's low-end torque to appeal to traditional diesel buyers.
The Duster turbo will be available with a 6-speed manual and CVT gearbox options. And while the older 1.5-litre, naturally-aspirated petrol engine will also carry on and be updated for BS6 norms, it will only be offered with a manual gearbox and in lower trims.
Interestingly, the HR13 engine on the Duster is the same powerplant that does duty (with higher power outputs) on a few other Renault, Nissan and even Mercedes-Benz models, like the A-class and the GLA sold abroad.
The Duster also gets more features on the top RXZ trim, which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, engine start-stop, cabin pre-cooling function via remote, along with automatic climate control. It also gets cruise control, dual front airbags with ABS, hill-start assist, and an 8-inch infotainment screen, to name a few.
Given that most engine components are imported for the moment, the Duster 1.3 turbo-petrol could be a whole lot pricier than the 1.5 petrol. Renault will announce prices for the Duster 1.3 turbo-petrol at launch in April.
