Renault's Duster: A game changer?

BANGALORE, INDIA: Duster - the recently released Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) by French automaker Renault - is already being described as a game changer and an ultimate wake-up call for Indian automobile firms. What makes this SUV so special, apart from its attractive price?

Renault's Duster or Dacia Duster, as it is called internationally, features cutting-edge technologies like reverse-parking sensor and key-less entry with answer back function.

Duster also makes driving a pleasure with its on-board trip computer with multi-functional displays and rear defogger and wipers for better visibility.

Reviewers has scored well on its fuel efficiency when compared with other high-end hatchbacks.

The SUV offers brilliant safety configuration to passengers and driver with features like anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) with brake assist and a monocoque body with side impact beams.

So, Renault has integrated all these technologies in an SUV whose price tag is the range of Rs.7.19 lakh-Rs.11.29 lakh. The French car maker, who has launched a 4x2 model in India, is said to have no immediate plans of launching a 4x4 spec model. 

CarWale's review of the Renault Duster says: "an SUV at this price will certainly grab the attention of people. This SUV has the potential to be not only a head-turner but a game changer in its segment."

Several other reviews appearing in the Indian media see the Renault's SUV and its strategy as a threat to the price advantage they had been enjoying all these years. Now, Indian firms have to bring in more technology apart from value and quality in order to cope with the new-age competition, another review said.

The Duster is available in eight variants -- two petrol, four diesel and two optional diesel packs.

Powering the top-end diesel RxZ variant is a 1.5 litre DCi engine that churns out a healthy 110PS of power and 248Nm of torque.

The Duster is also offered with a 1.6-litre petrol engine that puts out 104PS and 145Nm torque as well as a detuned 1.5 DCi diesel pot that churns out 85PS and 200Nm of torque.

Only the top-end diesel variant gets a 6-speed gearbox. All others feature a 5-speed tranny and no automatic option.