Car review: Renault Duster 1,5 dCi 4×4 Dynamique
If you’re looking for a rugged vehicle that could take you and your family off the beaten track and carry you in comfort when you’re on the road, but is also affordable, then we hope you have taken a look at the Renault Duster. There are many things we like about it, but there are also a few concerns, to be honest.
Let’s be honest from the start, this is a basic, pocket-friendly SUV, so you’re not going to find high-end tech and features in here. On the outside, it has a chrome-plated radiator grill and double-optic front lamps. The roof rails, skid plates and strong character lines offer up an imposing look that gives this SUV an overall rugged look. It’s a rugged-looking vehicle that will definitely make you stand out among the family sedans and hatchbacks on the road.
Inside there are hard plastics that tend to scratch easily. The seats can get slightly uncomfortable over long distances and the cabin can feel a bit cramped if it’s filled with five occupants. There is, however, plenty of standard specification. You get electric windows front and rear, electric mirrors, remote central locking, reverse parking sensors, front fog lamps, roof rails, 16 inch wheels, touchscreen navigation, Bluetooth connectivity and fingertip audio controls. In terms of safety, there are front and side airbags and ABS with EBD.
The test model had some rust on the windscreen wipers, which isn’t ideal for a car that’s really not old at all. There were also some rattles in the cabin and the general overall quality is a bit of a let-down. I realise that Renault had to keep costs down on this vehicle, but sacrificing quality is perhaps not the best way to go about it.
That aside though, the Duster is a very capable off-roader while also being good family transport. This particular model is the top-of-the-range 1,5 dCi Dynamique 4×4 so it definitely has the credentials to head for the road less travelled. The diesel engine is strong with 80 kW at 3 900 r/min and 240 N.m of torque at 1 750. The six-speed manual ‘box can feel a bit sticky and sometimes requires an extra bit of shove to engage, but otherwise the gearing feels short so you can move along at a quick pace. You can put the drivetrain in full four-wheel-drive setting, but there isn’t a low range. It wasn’t missed though as first gear is ample for tricky situations. The fuel consumption is impressive with a figure of 5,7 litres/100 km.
Overall, if all you want is a rugged, pocket-friendly 4×4 (well, relatively at R259 900) with good spec and features, then the Duster is a good consideration. If you also want some luxury and refinement, then maybe not so much.
Author: Kelly Lodewyks