Kolkata: Renault launches all new Duster AMT

The new Duster was first unveiled at the 2016 Auto Expo last month.

The introductory petrol base variant is priced at Rs. 8,85,405 (ex-Kolkata), the top of the line AWD (4x4) variant is offered at an introductory price of Rs. 13,99,703 (ex-Kolkata).

The Duster Explore Edition which was launched last year has already sold nearly 140,000 units in the country. The new Duster will be available in two variants, petrol and diesel. The 1.5-litre K9k dCi diesel engine tuned for 108bhp at 4000rpm and 245Nm of peak torque at 1750rpm, 6-speed manual transmission was retained from the Explore Edition, in addition to the 6-speed Easy-R AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) gearbox.

According to Renault,  the car  will offer a mileage figures of 13.06 kmpl for the petrol, 19.87 kmpl for the 83 bhp diesel and 19.6 kmpl for the 108 bhp diesel, manual and AMT. The 108 bhp diesel AWD (All Wheel Drive) offers 19.72 kmpl fuel efficiency.

The new Duster has 32 new changes both to the exteriors and interiors. the new Renault Duster features has an updated front fascia with new twin-slat chrome grille, while there are new Hawk Eye Cluster headlamps along with redesigned firefly fog lamps to give it a sporty SUV look. The 16-inch gunmetal finished alloy wheels and new waterfall LED tail lamps further gives it an elegant sporty look

The SUV also gets electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs with turn indicators, Kayak Roof Rails and new Cayenne Orange colour option.

The interior was further updated with crimson black interior and dual tone soft touch dashboards.

The safety and technological features have also being enhanced by Renault with a rearview camera with guidelines, automatic climate control, auto-up/down power windows with anti-pinch, new media navigation and a better-looking centre console. The safety package includes ABS, EBD with Brake Assist, dual airbags, ESP and Hill start assist.

As Renault states, the new Duster features the 'CMO10 and T4 E&E' architecture that has helped enhance safety, ride and handling. Power continues to come from the same. The New Duster with manual transmissionis available in fivetrim levels Standard, RXE, RXL, RXS, and RXZ, with both diesel and petrol power trains on offer.

Speaking about the new Duster, Rafael Treguer, Vice President, Sales Marketing, Renault India said, Duster is a perfect example of Renaults core specialty of concept innovation, where we redefine an existing segment, offering something new to the customer. Success in the automotive space is led by clutter-breaking products that rewrite automotive trends and make customers lives better. Over the years, Duster has firmly etched Renault on Indias automotive map and has achieved a cult status. With the new 6 speed Easy-R Automated Manual Transmission and several technical and design enhancements offered at a compelling price, we are confident that the New Duster will lead our expansion plans in India and strengthen our position in the compact SUV segment.

Now customers can book the new Renault Duster at dealerships across the country. The customers can also make their bookings on the new Renault DUSTER App, which is available on the Google Playstore.

(Reporting by Adit Majumdar, Image by Avishek Mitra/IBNS)