2016 Renault Duster AMT review, test drive

    Renault has given the Duster a facelift and also a new AMT automatic gearbox. Here’s all you need to know about it.

    Published on Mar 12, 2016 08:46:00 PM

    74,319 Views

    Make : Renault
    Model : Duster

    What is it?

    With the Hyundai Creta going on to dominate the very segment the Duster pioneered, Renault needed to do something to bring the attention back to its small SUV. So, what you see here, really is Renault’s answer to the Creta. This facelifted Duster gets revised styling, a revamped cabin, more equipment and, for the first time, the option of an automatic gearbox. 

    In terms of looks, the basic design remains unchanged, but stylistic tweaks here and there do help the Duster look fresh. The square headlights now get more intricate detailing (though there are no DRLs) and there’s a new twin-slat design for the grille as well. There’s a greater dose of brushed silver cladding with chunky scuff plates at the front and rear that seriously enhance the Duster’s SUV credentials. Fatter roof rails with the Duster name embossed on them and new rear view mirrors complete with turn indicators are other elements that help bring the Duster’s appearance up to speed.

    The Duster gets new black alloys but the design is quite plain and nowhere near as attractive as the Terrano’s wheels, which is one of the selling points of the Nissan-badged version of the car. Another missed opportunity are the door handles – we just wish the cheap lift-type flaps had made way for pull-type handles. At the rear, the re-profiled tail-lamps get a very distinctive S-shaped LED signature and the brake lights too look unique. Also, our test car came finished in the new shade of Cayenne Orange and the colour sure did its bit to spice up the look.

    Copyright (c) Autocar India. All rights reserved.

    Comments
    ×
    img

    No comments yet. Be the first to comment.

    Ask Autocar Anything about Car and Bike Buying and Maintenance Advices
    Need an expert opinion on your car and bike related queries?
    Ask Now
    Search By Car Price
    Poll of the month

    The Creta will be the third Hyundai N-Line model in India. Should more mass-market brands have sporty sub-brands?

    Yes, it's something special for enthusiasts

     

    18.39%

    Yes, but only if there is increased performance

     

    44.33%

    No, it's just a gimmick to increase the price

     

    29.40%

    It doesn't always work; just look at Tata JTP

     

    7.88%

    Total Votes : 1561
    Sign up for our newsletter

    Get all the latest updates from the automobile universe