The heavily updated Renault Duster was recently seen in production form in North India. While our story last week focused on the structural and cosmetic changes of the SUV, a new set of spy shots that have surfaced on the internet tells us that the interior will get a major overhaul as well.
First up, there's an all-new steering wheel replete with faux brushed aluminium finish and a fresh design that looks similar to those on newer Renault models. This same steering wheel is likely to feature in the Triber MPV in our market. Interestingly, the updated Duster's steering wheel also features buttons for cruise control but the volume control and other audio functions can be controlled using the buttons behind the steering wheel, similar to the current Duster.
The dashboard layout seems quite similar to the outgoing model but a close look reveals multiple changes. Renault has cleverly used faux aluminium, chrome and piano black bits, and some colour coding that helps make it look fresh. Also new on the Duster facelift is that the centre console gets rectangular AC vents instead of round units; the vents on the corners remain circular but now get surrounds finished in faux brushed aluminium. The instrument cluster is the same with three circular units but the surround placed above it is new and gets a chrome outline.
The updated Duster gets a new infotainment system as well. The screen size is the same but the interface is new and now offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto as well as some connected car features. The storage area in front of the passenger gets a proper lid now.
The Duster facelift also sees tweaks to its exteriors which includes a new alloy wheel design and faux cladding on the tailgate, giving it a fresh look overall.
Renault will upgrade the 1.5-litre K9K diesel engine to meet the BS6 norms. This, however, will be done only for the 110hp Duster, which means the 85hp variant will be axed. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual or an AMT gearbox. The Duster petrol will soldier on too and will get the option of a CVT gearbox.
The current-gen Duster has been around for a while in the Indian market. The upcoming facelift is the second update for Renault’s ageing SUV that sees tough competition from the Mahindra Scorpio (all-new model coming next year) and the popular Hyundai Creta.
The next-gen Duster has been on sale for almost a year in international markets but Renault has no plans to bring it to India any time soon.
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