Renault Duster crosses over into India

Renault has unveiled the Duster mid-size crossover at the Expo. The Duster shares its platform with the Logan (now Mahindra Verito). But it’s not an all-out off-roader and comes only as a two-wheel-drive version. Interior space is impressive and, just like on the Logan, ride quality is expected to be nice as well.

When launched, the Duster will come with five variants which include a base 1.6-litre petrol at a price of approximately Rs 7 lakh and the 1.5-litre diesel that currently powers the Fluence saloon. The diesel engine will be available in two states of tune — an entry-level 85bhp version and a top-of-the-line 110bhp variant. The 110bhp motor is the ‘Step 4’ version of the K9K engine.

The Indian market will get a completely revamped interior styling since Renault is aware that it cannot get away with dull interiors. For example, the power window switches for the rear passengers will be moved from the front dash to the more conventional location on the door pads.

Unlike the Ford EcoSport, the Duster won’t qualify for excise cuts as it is longer than four metres. But one can still expect aggressive pricing in the range of Rs 7-11 lakh. Renault has ambitious plans of selling 50,000 units every year, a part of which will be exports to right-hand-drive markets like the UK. The Duster will be on sale in the second half of this year.