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Renault’s brand Dacia has unveiled the all-new 2024 Duster in the global market. The new Duster is nothing like before and Renault is planning to bring the new car to the Indian market. Since the new Duster is completely different from the previous version, here are the things that you should know about the all-new Duster.
New platform
The new Duster gets the new Renault-Nissan CMF-B platform that underpins various models globally. It is a massive upgrade from the B0 platform that underpinned the last Duster available in the Indian market. This new platform can be electrified as well. There will be a seven-seater version of the vehicle that will be available shortly.
Shorter wheelbase than before
Even though the size of the new Duster has become bigger than before, the wheelbase has become shorter. At 2,657mm, the Duster has a slightly shorter wheelbase compared to the previous version that was available in India. Indian version of the Duster had a wheelbase of 2,673mm.
Looks more aggressive
While the new Duster is only a little longer than before, the vehicle looks completely different. Since the new Duster gets design cues from the Bigster concept, the more squarish design lines make it more aggressive. While the upswept glasshouse looks inspired by the current version of the SUV, the rear door handles, which are smartly integrated into the rear window frame add a clean look.
Engine options
This upcoming Duster model will be the first to be exclusively available without a diesel engine option. The brand behind this new Duster, Dacia, has announced three engine choices for the SUV.
The first engine option is a 1.6-liter petrol engine combined with an automatic gearbox and two electric motors, creating a full hybrid system. This system is similar to the Honda eHEV system and the offerings from Maruti Suzuki and Toyota on their SUVs. The same engine is already used in the Jogger MPV, producing 140bhp/148Nm of torque and achieving a mileage of 24.5kmpl.
The second option is a mild-hybrid 1.2-liter three-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 48V electric motor. This powertrain will offer an output range of 110bhp to 160bhp. It is the first time the Duster will have this powertrain, featuring the option of 4X4 technology with multiple driving modes. It can be equipped with a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.
The final engine option is a three-cylinder 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine that is compatible with LPG. However, it is unlikely to be available in India. This engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission.
Thoroughly updated cabin
The new Duster features a double-layer dashboard with shades of light and dark grey. The centre console is slightly angled towards the driver for better accessibility. Higher-end variants of the Duster will come equipped with two digital screens: a 7-inch screen for driver information and a 10.1-inch touchscreen for infotainment functions. Below the centre AC vents, there is a horizontal panel that houses various buttons for controlling the HVAC system.
Additional amenities such as a 12V power socket and USB outlets are positioned lower on the dashboard. The gear lever for the Duster with a manual gearbox appears to have been taken from Renault’s parts collection used internationally. Higher-end models also offer automatic gearbox options and an electronic parking brake. The three-spoke steering wheel has a robust look and incorporates several buttons for controlling infotainment, telephony, and cruise control features.
Off-roading capabilities
The new Duster will be available in both 4×2 and 4×4 options, but only with the 1.2-litre mild-hybrid powertrain. While it lacks a full 4×4 setup like the Jimny, it does feature terrain modes such as Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, off-road, and Eco. The Dacia Duster 4×4 has 217mm of ground clearance and an approach angle of 31 degrees at the front and a departure angle of 36 degrees at the back.
Additionally, it is equipped with hill-descent control, which operates at speeds up to 30kph. All off-road-related information, including inclination and power distribution between the front and rear, is displayed on the multimedia screen.
When will it come to India?
With a new investment of approximately Rs 4,000 crore by the Renault-Nissan group, the new Duster is set to make a comeback in the second half of 2025. Upon its entry into the Indian market, it will compete with popular models such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder in the midsize SUV segment, which is constantly growing. Additionally, a seven-seat version of the new Duster will be introduced in India, as well as a Nissan version of both the five- and seven-seat midsize SUV.
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