The all-new Renault Duster has been launched in South Africa, with several big changes distinguishing it from the previous generation. But a question burns: has the SUV’s personality changed? Charlen Raymond got behind the wheel to find out…
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What are we driving?
The Renault Duster has been a mainstay on South African roads for over a decade, winning buyers over with its no-frills, adventure-ready persona. Petrol and diesel engines made up the line-up, with the 1.6-litre petrol later falling by the wayside and the onus left on the diesel mill to keep the Duster alive. Mated to either a manual or automatic transmission, the Duster, one can say, called the shots in its segment and led from the front with poise and purpose.
However, as things go, change is inevitable, and the all-new Duster is now on sale in South Africa. The big news? New petrol powertrains and no diesel option. Of course, this brings a raft of questions into the equation, especially as this approach pushes the Duster into new territory where it now competes at a slightly higher end of its segment, moving away from the persona mentioned above.
Did Renault do the right thing with its approach on the new Duster, or did they dilute a recipe that others were too afraid to conjure?
What is new on the Renault Duster?
The new, third-generation Duster’s design is a major departure from the outgoing model. It sports a contemporary look that gifts the SUV a bold expression that is also soft on the eye. From the off, the new ‘Renault’ lettering on the grille is a fresh addition, stretching its length and connecting the new Y-shaped LED headlights. The rear door handles are incorporated into the C-pillars, and the ‘Duster’ name is now slapped proudly on the boot.
The plastic cladding is made of recycled material and the recycled signage is brought onto the signage board just below the side mirrors. Depending on the model, the Duster is available with 17- or 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, and it is also the first Renault in South Africa to sport the French automaker’s new logo. In terms of its size, the new Duster’s height is the same as the previous generation (1 656 mm), while the length and width grew by 2 mm and 11 mm, respectively, to 4 343 mm and 18 13 mm.
New additions to the interior include the 10.1-inch OpenR multimedia system that incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Y-shaped air vents that complement the exterior light design, a digital instrument cluster in front of the driver – a major improvement on the second-gen – a wireless smartphone charger, and a new E-shifter gear lever on the automatic models. Perceived quality is good, too, with the Duster still maintaining some of that rugged demeanour of its forebears.
Of course, we must address the elephant in the room. Why is there no diesel engine?
Unfortunately for South Africa, our market is too small compared to the global ones for us to dictate what goes for what. And because the European Union (EU) is cranking down hard(er) on manufacturers to reduce their carbon footprint, diesel engines are, forcibly, becoming extinct. Against this backdrop, all the markets, including SA, where the Duster is sold will only have two turbo-petrol engines to choose from. Except for Ukraine, where the diesel will be phased out gradually.
The two new power units consist of the 113 kW/250 N.m 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine, as well as a mild hybrid 1.2-litre three-cylinder unit (96 kW/230 N.m). The former is mated to a dual-clutch automatic transmission and only available in 4×2 guise. The smaller of the two engines is mated to the 4WD system and a six-speed manual ‘box, which incorporates a 48V battery.
The new Duster also has an improved towing capacity of 1 500 kg (braked), says Renault.
What is the Renault Duster like to drive?
While the engine choices are probably the new Duster’s biggest talking point, the ride quality is the other aspect that goes hand-in-hand with it. The SUV is built on the brand’s CMF-B platform, which underpins the fifth-generation Clio and the second-generation Captur. While the platform is designed to accommodate modern powertrains, including mild-hybrid technologies, it also endows the SUV with a well-balanced ride quality.
With the chassis stiffened and the anti-roll bars optimised over the previous model, the ride quality makes the Duster a compliant vehicle over a variety of surfaces. On tar, the SUV feels composed and the steering-feel well-weighted. On gravel, bump absorption is very commendable, allowing drivers to explore the Duster’s limits without fear that things will go awry. In addition, perceived build quality is good, given that no rattles were detected during our stints on the very corrugated surfaces. However, there is some wind noise off the side mirrors when you reach the national speed limit.
The launch itinerary also included a playful tenure on the Atlantis Dunes just outside Cape Town. With the 4WD locked in and the electronic driver aids (TC, ESC) turned off, the Duster scaled the slopes with aplomb. While first gear, like before, is shorter than a hostel prayer before supper, a quick shift to second will see the new Renault tackle the challenges without concern. Of course, the driver’s skill level on sand/dunes will play a massive role in such situations, but there is little worry over the Duster’s off-road prowess once it gets going. For further peace of mind, the 4WD Duster boasts a ground clearance of 217 mm.
How much does the Renault Duster cost?
The new Renault Duster line-up comprises only three models, available in Zen and Intens trims. Pricing for the Duster 1.3T EDC Zen begins at R489 999, while the Intens asks a R30 000 premium to come in at R519 999. The Duster 1.2T MT 4WD MHEV retails for R549 999, and all three models come standard with a three-year/45 000 km service plan and a 5-year/150 000 km warranty.
What are the Renault Duster’s rivals?
Given the Duster’s nature, it never truly had direct rivals. Yes, it competed against competitors in its price range, but few offered a 4WD setup, which gave the Duster the edge. With the new generation, though, the Duster has turned up the creature comfort and the package as a whole has – to a very large degree – done away with that no-frills persona. As such, the overall refinement puts the Duster in the crossfire of some established names.
Renault: Renault Duster Pricing and Specs Revealed for South Africa
The Toyota Corolla Cross is priced at R414 800 – R561 700, with the hybrid models priced from R494 400. Renault also sees the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro as one of the Duster’s rivals, with pricing ranging from R399 900 and R609 900. The two models at the top of the Tiggo 7 Pro pile are equipped with an AWD system. Other rivals include the Kia Seltos (R467 995 – R626 995) and the newly-launched MG HS (R499 900 – R534 900).
Verdict
It’s fair to say that with over 26 000 units sold locally since its introduction in 2013, the Renault Duster has become a favourite among South African buyers. Its reputation as a no-nonsense SUV with genuine off-road capability set it apart in a market where most rivals opted for urban appeal over adventure-ready substance – to this day. However, the third-generation Duster is a more premium, feature-rich offering, bringing it in line with the competition. And, divisively, it says goodbye to diesel power.
Ultimately, the new Duster is an evolution rather than a revolution and remains a capable and practical SUV, albeit one that adopted a more mainstream, comfort-oriented approach. Its legacy continues, though, just with a different flavour.
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