Renault has launched Duster AWD today with grand event. AWD is not a facelift version of Duster; it’s just another version of Duster complimenting AWD drive. AWD is based on idrive technology of Duster which features all wheel drive; no it’s not 4×4, it is AWD. Renault sold more than 1 lakh SUV in 25 months since its launch, with aim to capture 5% market share Renault has arrived with AWD version of Duster. With Festive season starting and it’s successful past performance will surely play as positive for the AWD. Now, let’s take a look what AWD duster has store for you.
Price:
Price of Renault Duster AWD RXL is priced at 11.89 lakh and top variant Duster AWD RXZ is priced at 12.99 lakhs both the prices are Ex-showroom Delhi, which is around 1.5 lakh lesser than its competitor Nissan Terrano and around 1.5-2 Lakh more than Ford Eco sport.
Engine Details:
The AWD Duster is powered by same 1.5L K9 four cylinder Diesel engine which develops 108.5BHp power @3900rpm and peak torque of 248nm@2250rpm providing power to all wheels based on idrive technology.
Engine is based on 6 Speed manual transmission, this engine is result of joint effort by Renault and Nissan. AWD will be offered in RXL and RXZ variants with ESP as standard with both the variants. Driver will have three Drive mode options between, 2WD, Auto and 4WD lock.
Fuel efficiency of AWD is 19.72 KPL improved by some percent and better than its competitors and it now gets independent Multi link suspension.
Space and Dimensions:
Renault Duster AWD is 4315mm long, 1822 wide and 1695mm tall which provides ample legroom and headroom space for 1st and 2nd row passengers. Ground clearance has been improved by 5 mm which is now at 210mm; it is more than sufficient for SUV and Indian bumpy roads. It carries wheelbase of 2673mm and turning radius of 5.2mm.
It has seating capacity for 5 persons and space is not an issue on rear as 5 adults can sit easily without getting cramped. Duster AWD has boot capacity of 410 liters which is adequate.
Interiors and Exteriors:
Interiors are now cleanly designed as compared to previous versions, dashboard is now comes in black grey finish with improved 3 pod information cluster with the 2WD,auto drive buttons which allows driver to switch the modes with single button and fuel consumption meter. Duster AWD now has three spoke steering wheels with steering mounted controls and central console modifies with touchscreen infotainment system.
Seats get tweaked with Burnt Red upholstery which looks very nice and royal, rear gets A/C vents and comfortable seats with ample thigh support.
Exterior wise you get to see some changes at rear and front like new cluster headlamps, sides of the car is depicted with AWD stickers on both sides of the car and there are big 16 inch grey wheels and Black b pillars.
Rear gets 4WD badge which distinguish it from regular Duster. There are not much external changes done in Duster AWD version apart from the above mentioned changes, though there will be new Amazon green color for Duster AWD.
Colors:
Renault Duster AWD will be available in seven exciting colors Metallic woodland brown, Metallic Fiery red, metallic moonlight silver, pearl supreme white, metallic graphic grey, Amazon Green and pearl galaxy black.
Safety:
In terms of safety features it left no stone unturned with the features like ASR (anti slip regulation), ESP (electronic stability program), Hill assistant control, Dual SRS airbags, ABS+EBD, emergency brakes and Rear parking camera with display assistance. It also has cruise control and Rapid deceleration warning system.
It also has features like impact sensing door lock-unlock front-rear defoggers, stability control, 3 pointer seat belt tensioners, engine immobilizer, engine protection under guard and rigid body build.
Verdict:
Renault Duster AWD is handsomely priced; it has some great add-ons and it offers excellent overall package. Duster successful past performance and new add-ons will be a deadly combination. Better ground clearance and good boot capacity is a plus for Duster AWD, Mileage of Duster AWD is quite good as well.
