The plucky and charming Renault Duster has been given a mild facelift. Here’s what’s changed.

Granted, what you see here has a Dacia badge on it, but the differences between the Dacia Duster and Renault Duster are miniscule. It’s fair to assume the updates seen here will make their way into the Renault-badged versions.

The Renault Duster has been a phenomenal success both locally and internationally. Since its introduction in 2010, the European sales have almost reach the 2 million mark. Thanks to its value-for-money proposition, capabilities and practicality, the Renault Duster has quite the cult following.

Visually, the updated Duster comes with a new look. The look of the grille and daytime running lights have been refreshed, and the design brings the Duster in line with the new-look Renault Sandero Stepway. The indicators have been replaced by LED direction units and there are now LED headlights too.

The new-look front isn’t just for show as the aerodynamics have been improved too. The new 16-inch and 17-inch alloy wheels as well as the rear spoiler all contribute to improved efficiency.

Updated Duster cabin changes

The cabin has been given a refresh too, with new upholstery on the seats which is said to offer improved ergonomics, new headrests and a new centre console with retracting armrest. The updated Duster also gains a new 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

Standard spec on the updated Duster appears generous, but we’ll have to see what the SA-spec entails. This Euro model features an onboard computer screen, automatic main beam activation and cruise control and speed limiter with backlit controls on the steering wheel. Automatic climate control with a digital display, heated front seats and a hands-free card are available on higher specification versions.

The updated Duster will continue offer offroad capability thanks to its 217 mm ground clearance on the 4×2 and 214 mm for the 4×4 derivative. The vehicle features a breakover angle of 21-degrees, approach angle of 30-degrees and a departure angle of 34-degrees on the 4×2 and 33-degrees on the 4×4.

The updated Duster 4×4 version features a 4×4 monitor that displays info like the lateral angle of the vehicle on uneven surfaces, pitch angle, compass and altimeter.

The European market updated Duster finally sees the introduction of the 6-speed EDC transmission, something the SA market has had for some time. The updated Duster features a range of petrol, diesel and LPG powertrains which are Euro 6D compliant. We’ll have to wait and see what the SA market will get.

Renault South Africa has confirmed the facelifted Duster is coming to SA. Expect the newcomer to land in the 3rd quarter of 2021.

Further Reading

Renault Duster Review

Renault Duster Compact Family Cars Awards

Renault Duster bakkie