The timing is not quite right for Renault to bring the Oroch into South Africa, despite its homologation being completed and the model ready to be introduced onto local roads. Here is why.
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In the February issue of CAR Magazine, Ian Mclaren got up to date with Renault’s plans for the coming year with the “What’s Up” segment. Speaking to the CEO of Renault Southern Africa, Shumani Tshifularo, one of the budding questions asked surrounded the arrival of the greatly anticipated Duster-based Oroch double-cab bakkie. With the unibody bakkie segment somewhat dejected after news that the Nissan NP200 would cease production and sale this year, some reprieve comes from the fact that the larger and double-cab Duster will arrive in Renault showrooms sometime in 2024.
Related: Saveiro vs Oroch vs Toro – Battle of the Bakkies Not Yet in SA
“This product has been fully homologated and is ready to launch, but we would be doing this characterful pick-up solution an injustice by introducing it at the proposed pricing that is currently being dictated by exchange rates and import taxes. Sourced from Latin America so subject to a 25% duty, together with the fact that Oroch is classed as an SUV rather than a workhorse that would allow the customer to at least claim VAT back, it’s rather a case of waiting for the market conditions to alter before we can achieve the kind of pricing that would prove enticing.” – Tshifularo.
Related: Renault Oroch set for SA roads!
Within the next few months, the brand, which is celebrating 125 years of existence hopes to usher the anticipated model into the market when exchange rates are more favourable. As a refresher, the Oroch features a 1.3-litre turbocharged or 1.6-litre petrol motor delivering 125 kW/270 N.m or 89 kW/159 N.m. The 4×2 variant offers an automatic transmission and front-wheel drive and for enhanced traction and stability, a 4×4 option provides a 6-speed manual gearbox and three drive modes namely 4×2, Auto, and 4WD. At the rear, the bakkie offers a payload capacity of 650 kg and a claimed towing capacity of 710 kg for braked and unbraked loads.
Speaking of Nissan and Renault bakkies, there was also no confirmation that the Nissan Navara-cloned Renault Alaskan double-cab is on the cards for South Africa at this point. With several other models discussed in the interview, get the latest issue of CAR Magazine to learn more!
