With Hyundai Creta happen very segment dominates pioneered Duster, Renault had to do something to bring attention back to the small SUV. So, what you see here, really is the answer to Creta Renault. The facelifted Duster will be revised styling, cabin revamped, more equipment and, for the first time, the choice of an automatic gearbox.
In terms of appearance, the basic design remains unchanged, but tweak the style here and there did help Duster looks fresh. Square lights are now getting more intricate detailing (although no DLR) and there is a new design for the twin-slat grille as well. There is a bigger dose of cladding silver scuff plate brushed with a chunky front and rear serious boost confidence Duster SUV's. Plump roof rails with raised Duster name on them and the new rear view mirrors with turn indicators complete the other elements that help bring this Duster looks up to speed.
The Duster gets a new black alloy but the design is quite simple and nowhere near as attractive wheel Terrano, which is one of the selling points of the Nissan-badged version of the car. Another missed opportunity is the door handles - we just hope that's lift-type flaps have made way for pull-type grip. At the rear, the tail-lights re-profiled get very distinctive S-shaped signature LED brake lights are visible and unique. Also, our test car came completed under the auspices of the new Cayenne Orange and color sure do little to spice up the look.
What is it like inside?
Although Renault has made changes over the years, Duster's cabin always appear as a bit utilitarian. That feeling has been reduced, although still not completely gone, thanks to a new round of upgrades on this facelifted version. For starters, black plastic and chocolates new help cover the rough edges is better than lighter tone than previous Duster. You will also see more highlights of silver and chrome detailing a bit more (from the air-con vents, for example) that help spruce up the cabin. The center console also gets a gloss black plastic more. The overall quality has improved, but still not at the level of Hyundai.
Facelifted Duster also got brand signage above the glovebox, but only those very familiar with previous cabin Duster will be noted that the layout of the center console has been revised slightly. The buttons on the hazard lights and lock the door now sit higher and more convenient to access. On a related note, mirror controls that were previously under the handbrake has been moved to a more traditional position near the window switch, which is more practical. However, the cruise control switch is still spread between the dashboard and the steering wheel, and steering wheel audio control mounted column continues to remain out of sight. high chair complicated driver adjusts also something that should be fixed. The seats themselves are trimmed in rich fabrics and the front pair get armrest for added comfort.
, Only the top-spec version of the Duster RxZ equipment-wise to see some additions. Range-topping version finally get automatic climate control, although the lower trim levels continue basic setup manual. The functionality of the touchscreen system on RxZ version has also been enhanced with voice recognition for iPhone is paired. There is also a new reverse camera, as well as auto up-down driver's side window. Strangely though, Duster AMT do not get a dead pedal is dedicated despite the footwell is spacious enough to accommodate one.
In terms of space and comfort, Duster is no different from the pre-facelift version that is no bad thing. The front seats are comfortable and despite the flat contour, the rear seats also offer plenty of support. There is plenty of head, leg and shoulder room in the cabin too. As usual, a large boot will be a boon for anyone who wants to use them on a long Duster out-of-town travel.
On light throttle input on average scenario, gearshifts six-speed automatic box 'timely and largely predictable. Gearshifts are not exactly smooth, but unlike the typical shift suddenly another AMTS, this Duster swap ratio gearbox is more progressive. We suspect flywheel 1.5 K9K diesel engine is relatively heavier have smoothening effect. The AMT Duster Automatic is the first that comes with hill-start assist as well, which allows for a safe holiday on a slope.
AMT unit Duster place that is not stuck out was when you press hard on the gas pedal, said to overtake. There is a slight delay before the gearbox downshifts into the proper gear and in general, there is no escaping the characteristics of AMT 'head-nod' or pauses in power between gearshifts. Gearshifts are hopefully not liquid as the torque converter unit Creta more sophisticated, but it's safe to say this is the best AMT on the market today.
Easy-R gearbox does not give the driver the option to shift manually as well. In manual mode, the gearshifts better and what is good is that electronics are not interfering with the right of the upshift until 5000rpm. This is an important point because it gives you better control, especially through corners and on hilly roads.
Dusters previously known for transmission of shocks road through the steering wheel, and while this has been minimized, there is still a fair bit of judder that filters through the steering wheel while cornering on rough roads. Handling across though is surefooted and predictable and legendary ability to flatten Duster bad roads are just as good. The suspension is one of the highlights of the Duster. While it may find a tad stiff at low speeds, absorbs almost all at a higher speed. AWD version gets an independent rear suspension is more supple touch and steady but, as mentioned, it does not come with the option of AMT, which is only available for the version of the front-wheel-drive.
As for the other elements of the driving experience, there are minor repairs to powertrain. The 110PS engine continues to impress for good power draw, but it does not run quieter now and the machines 'CMO 10' electronics were introduced first in AWD Duster has reduced turbo-lag as well. AMT may have dulled a little performance Duster but there was quite rude of torquey engine and, if you flick the gear lever is nicely finished in manual mode, overtaking was not a problem. In fact, ironically AMT tasted much better on the highway it is not in the city, as a high sixth gear allows for easy cruising.
As for the AMT version, it does not correspond with the smoothness of a torque converter clutch unit let alone twins, but did the job provides convenience of two pedal pretty good. AMT advantage of course is that it comes with no real impact on fuel consumption. But a bigger plus is the huge cost advantage. The Duster AMT RXL costs Rs 11.66 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) while RxZ fully charged the cost of Rs 12.86 lakh. For comparison, the only Creta automatic cost Rs 13.96 lakh.
It still may not have the sophistication or the finesse of Creta, but Renault Duster has broadened the appeal to give a strong fight back.
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