Renault Duster RXZ

The Renault Duster RXZ is a stalwart in the Indian SUV market, known for its rugged build and excellent ride quality. The latest 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine provides a significant boost in performance, making it a joy to drive, especially on winding roads. The car features a hydraulic power steering system, which, although old-school, offers a unique and engaging driving experience. The cabin, while not the most modern, is spacious with good headroom and a large glass area, though it lacks some contemporary features and has dated ergonomics. The Duster also boasts a 475-litre boot and comfortable seating for all occupants. With its robust suspension and strong braking system (though it could use an upgrade to four-disc brakes), the Duster remains a reliable and comfortable choice for both city and highway driving. Its value-for-money pricing and overall package make it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.

The Renault Duster RXZ, whether in its diesel or turbo petrol guise, is a robust and reliable choice for those navigating Indias diverse road conditions. While the interior and ergonomics may feel dated, especially compared to newer competitors, the Duster compensates with its exceptional ride quality and handling. The 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine has breathed new life into the model, offering a fun and engaging driving experience. However, the lack of modern features and the need for an upgrade in the braking system are notable drawbacks. Despite these, the Duster remains a well-rounded option, particularly for families and driving enthusiasts, thanks to its strong mechanicals and value-for-money proposition.

Renault India has introduced a new Duster Sandstorm edition, which might influence the design and features of the upcoming RXZ variant. The Sandstorm edition comes with new color options and minor cosmetic tweaks. I believe such special editions help keep the model fresh until the new generation arrives.

The new-gen Renault Duster, including the RXZ variant, has begun testing in India, with a launch expected in early 2025. The test mule spotted had key details like C-pillar-mounted rear door handles and Y-shaped LED taillights. I think this new design will give the Duster a fresh and competitive edge in the Indian market.

Renault is also considering a seven-seat version of the Duster, which could potentially place it in the D1-SUV segment. However, the RXZ variant will initially be available as a five-seater. I believe offering both options will help Renault cater to a broader range of customers.

The new Renault Duster RXZ will compete with other popular SUVs in India such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Skoda Kushaq. With its redesigned interior, featuring ventilated front seats, wireless charging, and automatic climate control, it is poised to be a strong competitor. I believe the new Duster has the potential to regain its market share in the SUV segment.

The upcoming Renault Duster RXZ is expected to be powered by a 1.2-litre mild hybrid turbo-petrol engine and a 1.6-litre strong hybrid petrol engine, both with automatic transmission options. This move towards hybrid engines is a significant step towards more efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles. I think this will appeal to buyers looking for both performance and fuel efficiency.

The Renault Duster RXZ, specifically the 1.3 turbo petrol variant, is priced between Rs 12.27 lakh to Rs 15.82 lakh (on-road Delhi), depending on the trim and transmission choice. For the manual transmission, you can expect to pay around Rs 12.27 lakh to Rs 14.32 lakh, while the CVT option adds about Rs 1.6 lakh to the cost. These prices position the Duster competitively against other compact SUVs in the market, such as the Hyundai Creta, Nissan Kicks, and Kia Seltos. Given its robust build, good ride quality, and potent engine, the Duster offers a compelling value proposition, especially for those looking for a fun-to-drive SUV without breaking the bank.

For those concerned about mileage, the Renault Duster RXZ 1.3 turbo petrol offers reasonable fuel efficiency. On highways, you can expect a mileage of around 17-19 kmpl, while city driving yields about 13-15 kmpl. The diesel variants, though no longer available in the BS6 era, previously offered similar or slightly better mileage. The inclusion of a start-stop system helps in marginal fuel economy gains, making the Duster a viable choice for those balancing performance and economy.