Renault Duster facelift launched at Rs 8.46 lakh

Renault has launched the facelifted Duster starting at an introductory price of Rs 8.46 lakh for the base variant going right up to Rs 13.57 lakh for the top-spec all-wheel-drive variant (both prices ex-showroom Delhi).

The Duster facelift now also comes in a six-speed automated manual transmission (AMT) offered on two trims priced at Rs 11.67 lakh for the RXL trim and Rs 12.87 lakh for the top RXZ trim (ex-showroom Delhi). Recently unveiled at the Auto Expo 2016, the Duster facelift comes with cosmetic tweaks to the exterior and additional features apart from the addition of the AMT gearbox.

Changes on the outside include revised headlamps and tail-lamps, new front bumper and grille. Additional features include power folding wing mirrors, updated navigation system, automatic climate control, rear view camera and cruise control. The Duster AMT variant, dubbed 'Easy-R', will come only with the 110PS diesel variant. In terms of safety, the Duster facelift comes with features such as ABS, EBD with brake assist, dual airbags, ESP and hill start assist.

The Duster facelift is powered by the same petrol and diesel engines as the outgoing model. While the petrol engine has an output of 102.5bhp, the diesel is a 1.5-litre common rail direct injection motor which comes in two states of tune – 84bhp and 108.5bhp. The petrol and the 84bhp diesel engine come paired with a five-speed manual gearbox.

The more powerful 108.5bhp diesel is offered with a six-speed manual as standard with the option of the new six-speed AMT gearbox. However, the AWD variant is only available on the top spec 110PS RXZ manual variant. The Duster facelift gets the addition of a base Standard trim and a mid-RxS trim.

The Duster has been one of the most successful models for the carmaker and has sold over 1.4 lakh units since its launch in 2012. Bookings for the Duster facelift will commence from March 3, 2016, according to the carmaker. The same can be made either at the dealerships or through the Renault Duster App.