DRIVEN: New Renault Duster stands ground

In all honesty, the first Renault Duster wasn’t a knockout in terms of appearances, but people still bought it.

Somehow, Renault managed to sell more than two million Duster models globally and 15 000 locally which is rather impressive in a stiff market.

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I travelled to Mpumalanga last week to drive the second-generation Duster which features exterior and interior tweaks from its predecessor.

Before I give opinions, I think it is best to know that the Duster is not about looking equable, it is about function and aff ordability. However, Renault has addressed the aesthetical issues and seem to have solved the initial problems.

It is based on the same BO platform as the outgoing model with dimensions remaining the same.

Looking on the outside, it still retains that robust look and the changes are easy to spot.

There are new wider C-shaped headlights and the bonnet features more contours, while the enlarged eight-oblong grille predominates.

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At the rear are new square light clusters in a tailgate that still looks like that of the old . On the inside, it is still the Duster we know, however, build quality has improved.

The seats are more comfortable , offering better support, extra padding and more adjustability, while boot space is measured at 478 litres.

The new dashboard is a pleasure: it incorporates a higher-mounted infotainment screen which is still easy to use.

The infotainment system incorporates navigation, music and USB. And there are easily accessible stowage spaces and improved accessibility of controls.

Depending on how you like your Duster, there are three variants – Expression, Dynamique, and Prestige. In terms of engines, it comes with two fuel options and three engine options – the 1.6 four-cylinder petrol and two versions of the diesel 1.5 dCi turbo engine.

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The Expression 4×2 petrol engine produces 84kW of power and 156Nm of torque.

The Dynamique 1.5 dCi churns out 66kW of power and 210Nm of torque, whereas the same motor but paired with Renault’s familiar EDC has 80kW of power and 250Nm of torque.

I did not keep an eye on the fuel consumption fi gures, but Renault claims the diesel 1.5dCi uses 5.1 litres per 100km whereas the 4×2 EDC and 4×4 manual versions only use 4.8 litres per 100km which is quiet a charm taking into account that I averaged 5.4 litres per 100km when I drove the previous Duster with EDC in 2017.

Renault says the 4×4 version will join the line-up next year. I will only comment on the Prestige version with EDC which is what I got to drive at the launch.

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Our launch included a drive through some serious gravel routes and the Duster remained steady and composed, although the front tyres tend to fight to find grip over serious bumps.

Maybe the 4×4 version will solve that. We were able to att ack serious inclines and declines, thanks to the even greater off -road capabilities such as ground clearance of 210mm, MultiView Camera that allows for easy visibility of the front, rear or side terrain.

New @Renault_SA Duster launhes today, herewith the pricing. NEW Renault DUSTER 1.6 Expression 4X2 R249 900
1.5 dCi Dynamique 4×2 R282 900
1.5 dCi Dynamique  EDC 4×2 R316 900
1.5 dCi Dynamique  4×4 R321 900
1.5 dCi Prestige EDC 4×2 R334 900

Story to follow soon on @ThecitizenM pic.twitter.com/ztL7LCom6e

— Ntsako Mthethwa (@NtsakoMthethwa) September 26, 2018

On the road where it will mostly spend its time, the Duster delivers a quiet drive, thanks to the sound-absorbing surfaces in the cabin and engine compartment from 20% to 50%.

Wind noise and tyre roar is minimal.

The tough and reasonably frugal 1.5-litre turbodiesel pulls strongly.

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Passive and active safety systems come from keyless entry, Blind Spot warning, Rear Park Distance Control, Speed Limiter plus Cruise Control functions. Active safety technology is standard across the range, including a set of airbags, ABS with EBD, EBA and Hill Start Assist.

The all-new Duster model comes standard with a fi veyear/150 000km mechanical warranty and a six-year anti-corrosion warranty.

Services take place at 15 000km intervals, and a standard three-year/45 000km service plan applies.

Pricing 

• 1.6 Expression 4X2 R249 900
• 1.5 dCi Dynamique 4×2 R282 900
• 1.5 dCi Dynamique EDC 4×2 R316 900
• 1.5 dCi Dynamique 4×4 R321 900
• 1.5 dCi Prestige EDC 4×2 R334 900

What we like 

• Improved styling.
• Infotainment system higher than before.
• Quiet drive.

What we do not like 

• Body roll can be frightening.

Verdict 

The new looks should give the Duster even greater appeal in the local market.

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