2017 Renault Duster Petrol CVT automatic transmission variant launched in India at Rs 10.32 Lakh

French automaker Renault, has launched a petrol-powered automatic version of its sports utility vehicle (SUV) Duster in India with automatic gearbox. The new Duster petrol CVT (Continuously Variable Timing) has been priced at Rs 10.32 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The 2017 SUV Duster comes with a new 106hp 1.5L H4K petrol (powertrain in the manual transmission/MT) engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox in two trim levels – RXE and RXL. The new 106hp 1.5-litre petrol engine in the Duster is based on the previous 104hp 1.6-litre motor. The petrol-powered manual transmission of the SUV priced at Rs 8.49 lakh and Rs 9.3 lakh respectively for RXE and RXL trims (ex-showroom Delhi).

Along with this, the other variant of the model – Duster CVT (constantly variable transmission) comes equipped with an X-Tronic automatic gearbox in the RXS trim, with introductory prices at Rs 10.32 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The new Renault Duster CVT comes with easy selection drive modes – P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive) and a 6 speed manual mode option. The 2017 Renault Duster comes in new Red paint shade in addition to the existing colour variants – Slate grey, Pearl white, Silver, Bronze Dore, Woodland brown and Orange cayenne.

The new 1.5-litre petrol engine is a downsized version of the 1.6-litre motor that was on offer previously, but manages to make more power and improved fuel efficiency than the predecessor. ARAI has certified that the CVT gearbox version of the new Duster has a fuel efficiency of 14.99kmpl, while the five-speed manual version is rated at 14.19kmpl. The previous 1.6-litre motor which was only available with a manual transmission (MT) in the Renault Duster has been discontinued.

Two things that have changed with the new Renault Duster petrol variant. The CVT Duster comes only as a 4×2 two-wheel drive (2WD) variant. Earlier, the older version came with a 1.6 litre petrol engine that put out 104 bhp of power. But now, new Duster gets a 1.5 litre four-cylinder petrol engine that puts out 106 bhp of max power at 5600rpm and 142Nm of peak torque at 4000rpm.

Talking about its features, Renault has also made some equipment-level changes in the Duster. For example, now the RxL manual trim and the new RxS automatic are equipped with steering-mounted audio and phone controls, eco mode, electrically adjustable outside rear view wing mirrors and a trip meter with multi-information monitor. The RxL variant comes with a rear reading lamps, gearshift indicator and the RxS CVT version is packed with a touchscreen infotainment system without the Media Nav 2.0 feature.

In terms of styling, Renault India has made subtle changes on the Duster CVT variant that include an exclusive gloss black finished grille, side and tailgate decals, dual-tone body coloured front bumper, black door side sill and the 16-inch gunmetal finish alloy wheels. On the inside, the Duster RXS CVT gets a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system (without navigation) and new fabric upholstery.

In terms of safety, the new Renault Duster petrol range features a driver side airbag along with ABS (anti-lock braking system), EBD (electronic brake-force distribution) with brake assist, rapid deceleration warning, engine immobiliser and remote central locking. The RXS CVT variant also comes with the passenger side airbag, ESP (electronic stability program) and Hill-start Assist as well.

Commenting on the launch of the new Duster petrol range and the Duster CVT, Mr. Sumit Sawhney, Country CEO and Managing Director, Renault India Operations said, “We have a clear goal of growing the Renault brand in India. Towards this, we are strategically strengthening our product range, expanding our network reach and initiating pioneering measures to ensure customer delight. Duster plays a pivotal role in our product portfolio and with the introduction of the new petrol range with CVT, Renault has the widest offering in the segment, enabling us to best cater to evolving customer needs. We are confident that the new Duster petrol range with the CVT will resonate well with discerning Indian customers in the fastest growing vehicle segment in India.”

New Duster range pricing (ex-showroom Delhi):-