After an extended wait of over a year, the latest-generation Renault Duster has officially arrived in South Africa. Originally introduced to the global market in November 2023, the highly anticipated compact SUV is now available in local dealerships, offering three distinct trims with a starting price of R489,999.
Engine Options
Renault’s new Duster is offered with two powertrain options. The entry-level Zen and mid-range Intens variants are powered by a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine, delivering 113kW of power and 250Nm of torque. This engine is coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, driving the front wheels. With this setup, the SUV achieves an average fuel consumption of 6.5L/100km.
For those seeking a more advanced setup, the top-of-the-line Zen 4WD model features a 1.2-litre turbocharged mild-hybrid engine, producing 96kW and 230Nm. This variant integrates an electric starter motor and a 0.8kWh battery to enhance efficiency, while regenerative braking helps recover energy during deceleration. Unlike the other models, this version comes with a six-speed manual transmission and boasts an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, improving off-road capability. Additionally, it features an increased ground clearance of 217mm compared to the 209mm seen in the front-wheel-drive models. Fuel efficiency for this model stands at 5.7L/100km.
All three Duster variants come with a 50-litre fuel tank, offering an estimated driving range between 769km and 877km on a full tank.
Key Features
The new Renault Duster comes well-equipped across all trims. Here’s a breakdown of the key features:
| Feature | Zen | Intens | Zen 4WD |
|---|---|---|---|
| LED headlights with DRLs | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Fog lamps | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Rain-sensing wipers | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Alloy wheels | 17-inch | 18-inch | 17-inch |
| Roof rails (max load) | 70kg | 70kg | 70kg (modular) |
| Infotainment system | 10.1-inch touchscreen | 10.1-inch touchscreen | 10.1-inch touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (Wireless) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Digital driver display | 7-inch | 7-inch | 7-inch |
| Parking sensors | Rear | Front, Rear, Side | Rear |
| 360-degree camera | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Blind-spot monitoring | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Cruise control & speed limiter | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Air conditioning | Manual | Automatic | Manual |
| Wireless charger | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Keyless entry | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Transmission | 7-speed auto | 7-speed auto | 6-speed manual |
| Drive modes | ❌ | ❌ | Eco, Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-road |
| Ground clearance | 209mm | 209mm | 217mm |
Standard Features
The base Zen trim is well-equipped with automatic LED headlights, daytime running lights, fog lamps, rain-sensing wipers, 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, electric side mirrors, and roof rails supporting up to 70kg. Inside, it features a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, black-and-grey fabric seats, manual air conditioning, a 10.1-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch digital driver display, USB Type C ports in the front and rear, ABS, tyre-pressure monitoring, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, cruise control, and a speed limiter.
Additional Features in Zen 4WD
The Zen 4WD variant enhances the offering with additional features such as a model-specific bumper, automatic high beams, an electronic parking brake, a wireless charger, keyless entry, modular roof rails, and five selectable driving modes: Eco, Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, and Off-road.
Premium Features in Intens Model
The top-spec Intens model stands out with its premium features, including larger 18-inch alloy wheels, auto-folding side mirrors, a combination of synthetic leather, suede, and cloth upholstery, six-way manually adjustable front seats with lumbar support, automatic climate control, paddle shifters, a 360-degree camera system, parking sensors on all sides, blind-spot monitoring, and a dual-stage boot for additional storage convenience.
Renault offers seven colour choices for the new Duster. Five metallic options include Cedar Green, Mercury Silver, Pearl Black, Sandstone Beige, and Terracotta Brown, while Dusty Grey and Glacier White serve as the two non-metallic alternatives.
Additionally, buyers can personalize their Duster with optional accessories, such as side steps, mud flaps, front air deflectors, an underbody skid plate for engine protection, a vehicle cover, a fixed tow bar, and YouClip mounting points inside the cabin for devices such as a smartphone holder or a 3-in-1 cupholder, hook, and light fixture.
Pricing in South Africa
Renault has set the following price points for the next-generation Duster:
- Renault Duster 1.3T Zen – R489,999
- Renault Duster 1.3T Intens – R519,999
- Renault Duster 1.2T Hybrid Zen 4WD – R549,999
All models come with a 5-year/150,000km warranty and a 3-year/45,000km service plan, ensuring peace of mind for new owners. With its blend of modern technology, versatile performance, and a robust feature set, the new Renault Duster aims to make a strong impact on the South African SUV market.
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