We have Dust-off

The new Duster is here, but has Renault diluted or improved its popular formula?

- Charlen Raymond

Since launching in South Africa in 2013, the Renault Duster made a strong impression with South African buyers, carving a niche for itself as a no-nonsense and accessible SUV.

Over the years, and with more than 26 000 units sold locally, its blend of practicality, affordability and off-road capabil-ity has garnered a loyal following. The SUV was initially offered with both petrol and diesel engines but the latter became the dominant choice, eventually usurping the petrol engine as the only power-train option in the local line-up. It was a stroke of genius because the diesel engine was not only robust, but also struck a balance between efficiency and perform-ance.

However, the landscape has shifted with the introduction of the third-generation Duster, which moves away from diesel power entirely, opting instead for a petrol-only line-up that signals a new direction for Renault's This fresh approach is complemented by a new design language that subtly connects the exterior and interior. It retains the purposeful-looking frame but adds smoother lines and a rugged squareness to the package. Renault branding stretches across the grille, connecting the new Y-shaped LED headlamps, while the rear door handles are incorporated into the C-pillars and the 'Duster' name is now on the boot. The modular roof bars aid the SUV's multipurpose proviso and can carry loads of up to 70 kg (in the 4WD). There is also a new sporty tailgate spoiler and dual-tone 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels ... the latter are model dependent. In terms of its size, the new Duster's height is the same as the previous generation (1 656 mm), while the length and width have grown by 2 mm and 11 mm, respectively, to 4 343 mm and 1 813 mm.