Meet the third-generation Renault Duster which has just been revealed to the European market. While it may be badged as Dacia in the images, we reckon we’ll see the new model in SA dealerships in 2024.

The Renault Duster has been a phenomenal sales success. Since its inception back in 2010 and update in 2017, more than 2.2 million have been sold globally and around 1000 Dusters roll off the production lines every day.

This new third-gen Duster is assembled on the CMF-B LS platform, which is a version of the same platform that underpins the Captur and Clio. This new platform is said to offer more cabin space for passengers and boot space for luggage, without increasing the overall length too much. The new platform is also said to offer more refinement and comfort.

The design looks remarkably similar to the Dacia Bigster concept from a few years ago, which is great as that was a very interesting-looking vehicle. Climb inside, and it looks like the new Duster is rugged and durable. There’s a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.1-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. Other noteworthy features include 4x illuminated USB ports, wireless smartphone charging, 6-speaker sound system as well as smartphone connectivity.

Engines and Transmission

Let’s get the bad news out the way, it looks like the 1.5-litre DCI diesel engine has been discontinued. Making their debut in the new Duster is a pair of electrified engines. There’s a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol engine with 70 kW, paired to two electric motors (37 kW and a starter generator). This derivative features an electric automatic gearbox as well as a 1.2 kWh battery, and Renault claims this powertrain will be in all-electric mode up to 80% of the time in cities.

The next engine is a new-generation 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol 3-cylinder with 96 kW that runs on the Miller cycle and uses a 48V mild hybrid electric motor that helps the combustion engine during acceleration. This model is available in 4×2 and 4×4 configuration and available with a 6-speed gearbox.

The all-new Renault Duster will still be an impressive offroader. The 4×4 models feature Terrain Control with 5 driving modes: Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-Road, Eco and Auto (where the car automatically distributes power to the front and rear axle based on grip and speed.) There’s a ground clearance of 217 mm and approach/departure angles of 31 degrees and 36 degrees respectively.

When will the all-new Renault Duster come to South Africa?

Renault South Africa did confirm that it is “exploring viability to launch New Gen Duster starting with 4×4 variant.” Given the model’s popularity in our market, we estimate that it will be arriving in South Africa in 2024.

We’ll have more info on the new Duster soon and will update this article as soon as we hear more.

Further Reading

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