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

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2016 Renault Duster AMT review, test drive

What is it like on the inside?

Though Renault has made improvements over the years, the Duster’s cabin has always come across as a bit utilitarian. That feeling has reduced, though still not completely gone, thanks to a fresh round of upgrades on this facelifted version. For starters, the new black and chocolate-brown plastics help cover up the rougher edges better than the lighter tones of the earlier Duster. You’ll also notice more silver highlights and a bit more chrome detailing (on the air-con vents, for instance) that help spruce up the cabin. The centre console also gets a lot more gloss-black plastic. On the whole quality has improved, but it's still not at Hyundai levels.

The facelifted Duster also gets embossed branding atop the glovebox, but only those very familiar with the earlier Duster’s cabin will note that the layout of the centre console has been slightly revised. The buttons for the hazard lights and door lock now sit higher up and are more convenient to access. On a related note, the mirror controls that were formerly under the handbrake have been moved to the more traditional position near the window switches, which is more practical. However, the cruise control switches are still scattered between the dash and steering, and the steering column-mounted audio controllers continue to remain out of view. The cumbersome driver’s seat height adjust is also something that should have been improved. The seats themselves are trimmed in richer fabrics and the front pair get armrests for added comfort.

Equipment-wise, only top-spec Duster RxZ versions see some additions. The range-topping versions finally get automatic climate control, though lower trim levels continue with the rudimentary manual setup. The functionality of the touchscreen system on the RxZ versions has also been enhanced with voice recognition for paired iPhones. There’s a new reverse camera too, as well as auto up-down for the driver’s side window. Curiously though, the Duster AMT doesn’t get a dedicated dead pedal even though the footwell is spacious enough to accommodate one.

In terms of space and comfort, this Duster is no different to the pre-facelift version which is no bad thing. The front seat is comfortable and despite its flat contours, the rear seat also offers a good deal of support. There is a plenty of head, leg and shoulder room in the cabin too. As ever, the large boot will be a boon for anyone looking to use their Duster on long out-of-town excursions.

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