It will probably come as no surprise that I’m quite fond of the new Dacia Duster, which I’ve praised heavily. If you only look at the price, it might seem a bit “silly,” but if you ask me, it’s a car full of charm – and it actually drives very well.
In India, something even more interesting has now happened. Here, a very special version of the Duster has been unveiled, this time wearing a Renault badge on the front.
No AWD, but Hybrid available
Visually, the Indian version differs from the model we know in Europe. The bold grille now proudly carries “Duster” lettering, while the front bumper is dominated by a large, aluminium-look skid plate and larger side air intakes. The platform is also unique to this Duster. It has been further developed from the current Dacia Duster to better suit the Indian market.
At the rear, it features dark-tinted triangular taillights with new graphics, a full-width LED light bar across the tailgate, and a redesigned bumper with a new license plate surround. The engine lineup also differs from the European version. Both are available as hybrids, but this Renault Duster is surprisingly offered with a newer 1.8 liter hybrid producing up to 160 hp. It’s the same system we know from the all-new Renault Clio.
In addition, it is available with either a 1.0 liter turbo with 100 hp or a 1.3 liter turbo with 130 hp, paired with a choice of a 6 speed manual gearbox or a DCT
automatic. Diesel is not available, as the entire range runs on petrol. It’s also worth noting that the Renault Duster is not offered with all-wheel drive, only front-wheel drive.
Interior: a significant step up
Inside, Renault raises the bar considerably. The cabin looks far more modern with new materials, better integration, and more features. There is a large 10.1 inch touchscreen and a 10.25 inch digital instrument cluster, now more seamlessly integrated into the dashboard.
The infotainment system runs Google built in with navigation and voice control. The seats feature leatherette inserts for a more premium feel, complemented by ambient lighting, updated air vents, and a cleaner center console.
Among the highlights are a panoramic sunroof, an Arkamys sound system, an electric tailgate, and ventilated front seats with electric adjustment – features normally found in more expensive segments. The luggage compartment offers 518 liters of space.
Is Renault Duster made (also) for Europe?
No, it’s unlikely to come here – not even with a Dacia badge. The Indian Duster is heavily tailored to the Asian market. The global Dacia Duster continues on its own platform, while this new Indian variant is primarily intended for India, South Africa, and the Middle East.
That’s a shame. Anyway, as we know from the Dacia Hipster unveiling in Paris, the new 1.8 liter hybrid will find its way into Dacia Duster and Bigster here at home.
