Renault Duster RXS

The Renault Duster RXS is a well-rounded compact SUV that offers a blend of style, comfort, and functionality. The exterior design has been updated with a new grille, bonnet creases, and larger fog lamp housings, giving it a fresh and muscular look. Inside, the Duster boasts a spacious cabin with ample legroom and a generous boot space of 475 litres. The RXS variant comes equipped with features like remote keyless entry, a cooled glovebox, automatic climate control, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The petrol engine, while powerful enough for highway cruising, is paired with a 6-step CVT transmission that offers convenience but lacks in fuel efficiency. The Duster also stands out with its healthy ground clearance and the option of an all-wheel-drive system, making it a capable choice for both urban and off-road driving. Overall, the Duster RXS is a solid option for those seeking a budget-friendly SUV with a good balance of features and performance.

The Renault Duster RXS is priced competitively in the Indian market. The ex-showroom price for the RXS CVT variant starts at around Rs 9.99 lakh, making it significantly cheaper than its competitors, such as the Hyundai Cretas petrol-automatic variant. On-road prices, however, will vary depending on the state and local taxes, but you can expect to pay around Rs 11.5 lakh to Rs 12.5 lakh, including all the additional costs. This pricing strategy makes the Duster an attractive option for buyers looking for a feature-packed SUV without breaking the bank.

When it comes to mileage, the Renault Duster RXS CVT is not the most efficient. The petrol CVT variant typically offers mileage ranging from 9 kml to just over 10 kml, which is relatively low compared to other options in the segment. For better fuel efficiency, the diesel version would be a more suitable choice. However, if you prioritize the convenience of an automatic transmission, you should be prepared for higher running costs.

The Renault Duster RXS is a compelling option in the compact SUV segment, especially for those on a budget. With its recent facelift, the Duster has gained a fresh look, featuring a redesigned grille, new bonnet creases, and updated DRLs, which enhance its visual appeal. The interior is spacious, with generous legroom in both rows and a sizable 475 litres of boot space. However, the cabin quality and ergonomic issues, such as the protruding centre tunnel, are areas that need improvement. The addition of features like remote keyless entry, cooled glovebox, and automatic climate control adds to the convenience. The petrol CVT variant, while convenient, suffers from the inherent rubber band effect of CVT transmissions and is not the most fuel-efficient option. Despite these drawbacks, the Dusters aggressive pricing and the availability of a CVT automatic make it a versatile choice for those seeking a budget-friendly SUV.

The new 2024 Renault Duster RXS is set to debut in India by the end of the year, featuring a completely redesigned interior with a 10.1-inch floating touchscreen and a 7-inch fully digital instrument cluster. The SUV also boasts ventilated front seats, wireless charging, and automatic climate control. I think these updates will significantly enhance the driving experience.

Renault has revealed that the 2024 Duster RXS will come with three engine options, including a 1.6-litre petrol engine combined with two electric motors in a full hybrid system, and a mild hybrid 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine. This is the first time the Duster will be offered without a diesel engine option. I believe this shift towards hybrid engines is a step in the right direction for sustainability.

The 2024 Renault Duster RXS will be built on the new CMF-B platform, which also underpins other Dacia, Renault, and Nissan vehicles. This platform is expected to improve the SUVs overall performance and stability. The new Duster also features a sleek LED headlight setup and Y-shaped LED DRLs, adding to its rugged and modern design.

Renault has halted the production of the current-gen Duster, including the RXS variant, as they prepare for the launch of the new generation model. The current-gen Duster will only be available till stocks last. I think this move indicates a significant upgrade in the upcoming model.

The 2024 Renault Duster RXS is expected to have a ground clearance of 217mm, along with a 31-degree approach angle, a 24-degree breakover angle, and a 36-degree departure angle. This enhances its off-road capabilities, making it a robust choice for various terrains.