Renault Duster Begins Testing, Aiming to Compete with Hyundai Creta

Renault, the French automobile manufacturer, has commenced testing its third-generation Duster SUV, which is slated to be launched in India in 2025. The new model will come in both 5 and 7-seater versions, and will compete with popular SUVs such as the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Kia Seltos, Toyota Hyryder, Kia Carens, Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari and MG Hector Plus. The latest spy images of the Duster reveal a heavily camouflaged test mule with thin LED headlamps, an angular stance and a flat bonnet, similar to the Dacia Bigster concept.

In addition to the design features previously mentioned, the new Renault Duster spotted in spy images also has roof rails, square-shaped wheel arches, front pull-type door handles, and rear door handles integrated into the C-pillar. The rear section of the SUV is reminiscent of the Dacia Bigster concept, with twin pod-style spoilers and boomerang-shaped taillights. The next-generation Duster will be based on the CMF-B modular platform, which has been developed jointly by Renault and Nissan and is heavily localized. The upcoming Duster will be larger than its predecessor.

The latest version of the Renault Duster SUV will come with choices for powertrain options including plug-in hybrid and electric models. In contrast, the previous generation of the Duster had a 1.3-liter turbo petrol engine capable of producing 156 horsepower.

Renault India is planning to expand its product line by introducing an entry-level electric vehicle (EV) in the near future. Although details about the new EV have not been disclosed yet, Renault currently sells the Kwid E-Tech (Kwid EV) in the Chinese market. The Kwid EV has a 26.8kWh battery pack that provides a range of 271km (NEDC cycle) on a single charge, and produces 44bhp of power and 125Nm of torque. The vehicle comes with a range of features, including a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an EV-specific instrument cluster, tyre pressure monitor, six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and hill start aid.