Renault South Africa has taken the wraps off the new-generation Duster, bringing a refreshed version of its popular SUV to local showrooms. The model arrives with revised styling, updated cabin features, additional technology and a greater emphasis on safety, while retaining the rugged character that has defined the nameplate since its local introduction in 2013.
Built on the Renault Group’s latest modular platform, the new Duster is aimed at drivers who require a vehicle capable of handling daily commutes as well as less forgiving roads. The exterior adopts the brand’s current design direction, with a revised front grille that carries the Duster name prominently, along with sculpted body panels, front and rear skid plates, LED signature lighting, a horizontal light bar at the rear and 18-inch alloy wheels on certain variants.
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Inside, the cabin has been restructured around a driver-focused layout. The dashboard houses dual OpenR Link displays, with a 10,1-inch infotainment screen serving as the centrepiece for connectivity. This system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth and additional call functions.
Higher-spec models add a 10,25-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless charging and an upgraded audio setup. Customers can also specify ventilated and electrically adjustable front seats, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting and an electrically operated tailgate, depending on the derivative chosen.
Practicality remains a strong suit, with a boot capacity of 518 litres that expands to 1 789 litres when the rear seats are folded down. The multi-sense driving system allows the driver to adjust throttle response and steering weight across several modes, tailoring the car’s behaviour to different conditions.
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Under the bonnet, the Duster range offers two turbo-charged petrol engines. The entry-level unit is a 1,0-litre three-cylinder producing 74 kW, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. For those wanting more power, a 1,3-litre turbo engine delivers 116 kW and 260 Nm of torque, available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed EDC automatic transmission with paddle shifters on selected versions.
Ground clearance is rated at 212 mm, and the suspension has been tuned to absorb the irregularities commonly found on South African roads while maintaining composure on tarmac.
Safety equipment has been upgraded across the board. Every Duster comes with six crash bags, Electronic Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring and a rear-view camera. Higher trims gain a suite of 17 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keep Assist, Active Emergency Braking, Driver Attention Alert, front, rear and side parking sensors, a 360-degree camera and automatic high-beam control.
Renault South Africa chief executive Shumani Tshifularo said the new Duster marked a meaningful progression for the brand’s SUV line-up: “The vehicle stays faithful to the authentic character that local buyers have appreciated over the years, while adding the levels of technology, comfort, safety and design that modern customers increasingly expect.”
He added the model is intended to encourage owners to explore more of their surroundings with greater confidence and ease.
Pricing for the new Renault Duster starts at R 339 999 for the Evolution 1,0 Turbo 6MT, rising to R 379 999 for the Evolution 1,3 Turbo 6MT, R 399 999 for the Techno 1,3 Turbo EDC, R 439 999 for the Techno+ 1,3 Turbo EDC and R 499 999 for the range-topping Iconic 1,3 Turbo EDC. All derivatives are sold with a 5-year or 150 000 km mechanical warranty, a 3-year or 45 000 km service plan, and 24-hour roadside assistance.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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