Facelifted Renault Duster to be launched by March-end

Renault India is tentatively expected to launch the facelifted Duster compact SUV by March-end. The details have been received from a dealer in Mumbai for the same. The launch will have the introduction of the facelifted Duster and a new variant with AMT option. Unveiled at the 2016 Auto Expo, Renault has given the Duster a major makeover since its launch back in 2012. The only addition made till now was the addition of AWD variant in 2014.

The facelifted Duster will continue to be offered with the same petrol and diesel engines. Renault has used the CMO-10 engine compartment which further improves the drivability of the facelifted Duster. Apart from the 6-speed manual transmission, the top end-end variant (110PS) will also come with the new Easy-R AMT transmission making it easier to commute in the city.

Apart for the AMT transmission, the facelifted Duster has got several cosmetic upgrades like roof rails, ‘hawk eye’ cluster headlamps, re-designed LED tail lamps, and new alloy wheel design in gunmetal finish. Inside, the compact SUV get new upholstery with a dual-tone dashboard, new air-conditioning system, reverse camera with guide lines, auto function for power windows, navigation system, and cruise control for the AMT variant.

On the price factor, the facelifted Duster will see a slight hike from the existing price structure of current models, and around 30-50 thousand more for the AMT variant. The facelifted Duster will rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Ford EcoSport, and Mahindra TUV300 in the compact SUV segment.