Five things you need to know about the new Renault Duster 4x4

Renault has just launched its new Duster 4x4 in South Africa. Here are the most important things you need to know about it.

1: It has an improved interior with more features.

The Duster began its life as a rough and ready SUV with few features or frills to speak of. How things have changed. The new top-of-the-range 4x4 model gets a touchscreen infotainment system that includes both satellite navigation and smartphone mirroring. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both catered for here, which makes for a safer and more functional driving experience. Other new additions include blind spot detection, hill descent control, a 4x4 monitor and multiview camera. The latter allows you to monitor terrain in front, behind and next to the vehicle – handy when off-roading. 

2:  It comes in one flavour only – diesel.

Powering the Duster 4x4 is Renault's familiar 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine. It's a tried and tested motor that combines good fuel consumption (Renault claims 5.2l/100km on the combined cycle) with a decent amount of both power (80kW) and torque (260Nm). Here it comes mated exclusively to the firm's latest six-speed EDC (efficient dual clutch) transmission, which is perfect for urban traffic as well as mild off-road applications. 

3: It should be quite competent across the rough stuff.

Just take a look at the numbers. The Duster 4x4 has 210mm of ground clearance, an approach angle of 30 degrees and a departure angle of 34 degrees. Not shabby at all. The all-wheel-drive system provides extra traction across slippery terrain and can be switched between three modes: 2WD, Auto and 4WD. As mentioned before there's also hill descent control, which automatically brakes the car down steep descents. 

4: It looks better than it ever has.

From those smart 16-inch alloy wheels, aggressively styled aprons and snazzy daytime running lights, the new Duster 4x4 belies its blue-collar Dacia roots with a look that's actually quite premium. Add in that new interior and the option of leather seats (R10,088) and you have a capable all-rounder that offers fairly good bang for your buck. 

5: It's competitively priced and offers reasonable peace of mind.

Without ticking the boxes for those leather seats or metallic paint (R2,522) the new Duster 4x4 will set you back R327,900. A five-year/150,000km mechanical warranty and three-year/45,000km service comes standard.