The Renault Duster is one of my favorite compact crossover SUV’s. As much as the previous generation did not exactly exude striking looks, it’s a proper and capable little thing. Since its launch back in 2009 it has rocked the boat when it comes to its segment. We recently got behind the wheel of the Duster TechRoad 1.5 EDC to find out what’s what.
Styling
The design is quite a departure from the previous generation model. The previous-gen looked like a military tank and lacked good looks. Fast forward and the new Renault Duster looks the part. It looks bold from every angle. This updated TechRoad model sports new 17″ Diamond Cut wheels, silver roof rails, front and rear skid plates, and C-shaped daytime running lights. Renault decided to go with blue themed accents on the car which are found on the wheel hub caps and window panels that give it some character. Overall the Duster is a good looking car.
Inside
Inside it’s not the most luxurious, but it’s a cabin that’s simple and straight to the point. You get comfortable cloth seats, a 7″ Media Nav Evolution infotainment system with navigation that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The graphics for the infotainment screen are not the best, but connecting it to Apple CarPlay or Android makes a difference in terms of appearance. Though the air-conditioning is a single zone, the knobs for the climate control are finished in steel which adds a touch of classiness to the cabin. The blue-themed accents also find their way into the cabin through the air-conditioning vents, on the sides of the seats and bold blue lettering of the name ‘DUSTER’ on the seats.
The Drive
Powering the Duster is Renaults trusty 1.5 dCi engine that produces 80kW and 250Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed Dual-Clutch EDC Automatic gearbox. The ride is pretty comfortable smoothing out most imperfections on the road. Whether you’re driving in the city or highway the Duster feels at home. Power output might not seem like much but it’s more than enough for cruising and overtaking. Fuel economy is phenomenal – unless I’m a really good driver – as I was able to achieve a best of 4.5 l/100 km and a worst of 5.1 l/100km during my 7 day test period. Pretty good fuel consumption figures considering Renault claims 4.8 l/100km. Drive carefully and that 50L tank can get you a range of 1000km. Being a 4×2 derivative you won’t be doing any hectic off-roading. Thanks to its 210mm ground clearance and 30° high approach and 34° departure angles you will be able to take it off the beaten track to have a bit of fun.
Safety
The TechRoad is equipped with both active and passive safety feature which come standard across the range. This includes (Anti-Lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) in conjunction with EBA (Emergency Brake Assist) and Hill Start Assist. The Duster TechRoad also comes equipped with a rear-view camera with parking sensors.
Verdict
Priced from R361 900, the Renault Duster TechRoad has quite a bit of kit for the money. It ticks the right boxes in terms of looks, practicality, fuel economy, and value for money. If you’re in the market for a small SUV, the Duster has to be on your shortlist.
Specs
- Engine: 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel engine
- Power: 80 kW
- Torque: 250 Nm
- Transmission: six-speed automatic
- Acceleration: 0 – 100 km/h – 11.9 Seconds
- Top Speed: 169 km/h
- Fuel Consumption: 4.78l/100 km (claimed)
- Price: R 361 900
