Renault is expected to launch the facelifted Duster in India around the end of March, following the India-spec model’s debut at the Auto Expo 2016.
The 2016 edition of the popular compact SUV features cosmetic changes such as revised headlamps and tail-lamps, new front bumper and grille and new design alloy wheels, making the exterior similar to the Brazilian Duster facelift revealed last year.
The India-spec Duster facelift will also become the first Renault model to be offered with an AMT gearbox. The Easy-R AMT gearbox, which was displayed by Renault’s sister brand Dacia at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, will be offered instead of the DCT auto gearbox. According to company sources, though the DCT would have offered a smoother drive than the AMT, the former's cost would have pushed the SUV's price further by around Rs 2 lakh. The Duster Easy-R AMT will come only with the Duster 110PS version.
Additional features on the Duster facelift include re-styled roof rails, power folding wing mirrors, navigation system, automatic climate control, rear view camera, auto up/down windows and cruise control.
In terms of pricing, the facelifted Duster is set to cost a significant premium over the current model with the AMT version. It is yet to be confirmed whether Renault will be launching the AMT Duster alongside the manual or at a later date. With the launch of the facelifted Duster expected by end of March, dealers are offering discounts of upto Rs 1 lakh on the current model, in a possible bid to clear out existing stocks.