Duster details firm ahead of July launch

RENAULT Australia has confirmed further details of its Duster compact SUV ahead of the model’s arrival in local dealerships towards the end of next month (July).

With stock beginning to arrive, the two- and all-wheel drive Duster range will offer what Renault says is a new level of ruggedness and practicality for the segment and will be available with a wide range of accessories.

“Unlike many other vehicles in the small SUV segment, the Renault Duster has a level of genuine off-road ability for those who want to escape the urban jungle,” said Renault Australia general manager Glen Sealey.

“That’s why we are working with Renault France and local accessory specialists to offer a wide range of options, so customers can get the most out of their new Renault Duster.

“Customer demand for utes and four-wheel-drives in Australia is off the charts, but the new Renault Duster also reflects the Australian lifestyle.

“It is ideal for urban use yet has the ability to unlock a weekend escape.

“Whether customers choose the 4x2 or 4x4 version, the other advantage of the Renault Duster’s tall suspension is the comfort it delivers over bumps and thumps on suburban roads.”

As previously announced, the new Renault Duster will be available in Australia with a choice of two petrol engines, a turbocharged 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol sending 113kW/250Nm to the front wheels via an automatic transmission, or a turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol mild hybrid with 96kW/230Nm, a manual transmission, and all-wheel drive.

Two model grades will be offered, with a choice of seven body colours.

Prices and detailed specifications for the Renault Duster line-up will be announced closer to local showroom arrivals, however dealers are now taking expressions of interest from customers who wish to pre-order.

“Demand for this vehicle in Europe is very strong, so Australia will receive an initial allocation before shipments ramp up next year,” added Mr Sealey.

“We ordered as many cars as we could this year, and we are now working closely with the factory to improve our allocation moving forward.”

Early specification details indicate the Duster will offer 212mm of ground clearance, and will measure 4345mm in length, 1813mm in width, 1650mm in height, and 2657mm in wheelbase.

Equipment highlights include Y-shaped DRLs, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, 10.1-inch infotainment array, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and, on all-wheel drive models, a five-mode drive selector and hill descent control.

Available advanced driver assistance aids include autonomous emergency braking, blind spot warning, driver attention alert, lane-keeping assistance, rear- or multi-view cameras (grade dependant), and traffic sign recognition.