DRIVEN: Updated 2021 Renault 1.5-litre Duster
All things to all women
The 2021 Renault Duster, a comfortable drive, nippy and very economical. But is it as tough as everyone says?
This compact SUV has been a popular choice in our South African SUV market since the first model was launched in 2013, with an overall sale of 21 000 cars.
Let’s talk about the look:
On the outside, it may look small, but inside it is spacious. It is so compact, it allows driver confidence behind the wheel. The bonnet does not make it difficult to judge any corner and even parking is even simpler.
What about inside?
It features an all-black dashboard and black material seats with blue trimming inside with Duster embroidered on it. The seats are comfortable and easily adjustable. There is more than enough head and legroom in the rear and up front. The boot has an equal amount of space, without the back seats being down. Sounds great for a road trip if I do say so myself. I usually end up packing half my cupboard into a bag or two for one weekend away. The Duster is capable of being tough, reliable and so simple.
How does it drive?
Amazing!
This updated Renault Duster comes with two fuel options and three engine options. There is an option between the non-turbo petrol 1.6L 16V and two versions of the diesel 1.5 dCi turbo engine.
Our test car was the top of the range 1.5 dCi 4×2 turbo diesel engine model. It boasts 80 kW with 250 Nm of torque mated to a 6-speed Dual-Clutch EDC Automatic gearbox. Its claimed fuel consumption is 5.1L/100 km. Not bad for a little turbo powering this engine.
Note, there is no 1.5 dCi 4×4 derivative available in automatic.
What makes it so fun and engaging?
It is really nippy and so quiet on idle. The drive is so comfortable that even after you arrive home after a quick road trip, you are so eager to take another immediately.
How about that all important tech?
It features a 7-inch, Media Nav Evolution touchscreen infotainment system. The driver has the option of listening to a CD or Bluetooth. Reversing is a dream and super easy with the reverse camera and rear parking sensors, real fancy. For the long road, it features cruise control and a speed limiter.
The details
Model tested: 1.5 dCi Prestige EDC 4×2
Price: R374 900 (model range available from R289 900)
Warranty: 5-year/150 000km, 6-year anti-corrosion.
Service: A standard 3-year/45 000km service plan
Picture/s: Leigh-Ann Londt