Space - There's lots of it in the new Renault Duster Techroad

Image Supplied

Image Supplied

Immediately noticeable once the boot lid was opened was the enormous space of the boot and even more space if you need it by just lowering the back rests of the back seats. So if you are in the market for a SUV with a very large boot space to take on luggage, surf-boards, golf bags and the like, then this SUV might just be for you. And it's very affordable too.

The Duster models, complimented by the enduring 4x4, has been quite a hit within this SUV segment, with a remarkable 21,000+ units sold to date in SA since its initial launch into the country back in 2013. The newly launched TechRoad has the same DNA of previous editions and is poised to take on the market, based purely on its heritage and very affordable price.

Space and comfort

For starters, it has the best space and comfort in its class. It is very spacious. The cabin is very neatly designed and all the basic functions are within easy reach and user-friendly. The black cloth upholstery trim is of high-quality and the blue trim detailing and striking blue design accents within the cabin adds to the all-round neatness and usability.

The dashboard is easy to use with an accentuating ergonomic design. Want space to keep your sunglasses, reading glasses, water bottle and the like? There is plenty of this at hand. The rear bench seat features a 1/3 – 2/3 split-fold function, while the boot boasts best-in-class loading capacity of up to 478l.

It's tough and genuine

We have all heard that word many times when describing an SUV but the new Renault Duster TechRoad truly lives up to the description and comes with new driving aids and new equipment. It’s a genuine SUV which is both versatile and comfortable for everyday driving, with the 4x4 derivative set to conquer the outdoors with relative ease. The original Renault Duster was designed and engineered to adeptly master tough road conditions, but in a more modest form.

The new Renault Duster TechRoad reinforces the Duster’s existing strengths, but the renowned DNA of the Duster remains at the heart, i.e. an extremely capable SUV, which is tough, simple and reliable. Aesthetically, the Duster Techroad looks muscular, the design tone is set by its aggressive lines, and expressive front and wide rear, heightening the impression of stability.

The Duster’s tough stance is emphasized by its bold horizontal lines. The new 17” Diamond Cut wheels with striking blue caps ensure a more assertive profile, very noticeable silver roof rails, and front and rear skid plates that support its adventurer or outdoor credentials.

It has a ground clearance of 210mm for all-terrain driving. The chrome trim of the grille, alongside a raised waistline and the powerful C-shaped light signature complete the powerful stance of the new Duster.

Multimedia

The new Renault Duster offers a host of state-of-the-art equipment to facilitate stress-free everyday driving, including on-board GPS Navigation. Now with Smartphone mirror compatibility, today’s top contenders are Apple’s CarPlay and Android Auto.

Communicate with the vehicle by way of voice commands and the car’s manual controls, enabling safer driving. Plus, the convenience of features such as Automatic Climate Control, Speed Limiter and Cruise Control functions provide superb driving support on the open road.

Safety uncompromised

The new Duster offers a multitude of advanced active and passive safety technology as standard across the range, such as ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) in conjunction with EBA (Emergency Brake Assist), making it possible to maintain control over the trajectory in the event of heavy braking.

Rear Park Distance Control enables easier parking manoeuvres by warning the driver of obstacles situated behind the vehicle by a sequence of beeps which speed up the closer you are to them. Hill Start Assist is a handy inclusion.

Powered up

The new Renault Duster comes with two fuel options and three engine options. There is a choice between the 1.6l 16V and two versions of the incredible 1.5 dCi turbo engine. The Diesel 1.5 dCi 4x2’s engine has outputs of 66kW and 210Nm and consumes from only 5.1l/100km. The 4x2 EDC and 4x4 Manual versions fuel consumption is a light 4.8l/100km.

Recommended retail pricing

• Duster 1.6 Expression 4x2 - R278,900
• Duster 1.5 dCi TechRoad 4x2 - R316,900
• Duster 1.5 dCi TechRoad EDC 4x2 - R350,900
• Duster 1.5 dCi Dynamique 4x4 - R350,900
• Duster 1.5 dCi Prestige EDC 4x2 - R363,900

As is standard across Renault’s entire product range, the new Renault Duster Model range comes standard with a five-year/150,000km mechanical warranty and a six-year anti-corrosion warranty. Services take place at 15,000km intervals, and a standard three-year/45000km service plan applies.