Renault
India launched an All Wheel Drive (AWD) Duster at a starting price of Rs
11,89,499 for the RxL variant while it will be Rs 12,99,499 for the RxZ
variant (Delhi ex-showroom). With an all
wheel drive feature, the Duster becomes a blue blooded SUV. The Renault Duster
AWD flaunts the i Drive Technology.
The
AWD will enable the SUV to intuitively access the road and constantly engage
all wheels. It will come in shift-by-fly options of 2WD, Auto & 4WD.
The
Renault Duster AWD will be powered by a 1.5 dCi THP diesel engine (common rail
direct injection) delivering 108bhp @4000RPM of maximum power and peak torque
of 245NM@1750RPM. The engine is mated to a 6 speed manual transmission. The car
will deliver a fuel efficiency of 19.72 kmpl of fuel , as per ARAI standards.
A
series of progressive features in the Duster include the Eco Mode, which
enables less fuel consumption by up to 10pc. The car comes with safety features
like ABS with EBD and brake assist.
Sumit
Sawhney, Country CEO and Managing Director, Renault India said the new Renault
Duster AWD is built to negotiate the most challenging roads and will enable
drivers to enjoy the thrill of everyday driving. “The Renault Duster 2WD was a
runaway success in India, and we are confident that the new Renault Duster AWD
will resonate with auto enthusiasts across the country,” he said.
Sawhney
said his company was working towards launching a couple of new vehicles in the
near-future, as well as expanding its dealer network.
The
Renault Duster 2WD proved to be a great option for customers looking at an
alternative to the sedan and higher priced SUVs and attracted a new set of
aspiring SUV customers.
Rafael
Treguer, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Renault India noted that the new Renault Duster AWD will
enable drivers to enjoy every challenge on the road with the best driving
experience. He said his company was confident of redefining the segment like it
did with the Renault Duster 2WD.
The
new Renault AWD is available in six colour options.
The
car is fitted with the all wheel independent multilink suspension for better
ride and comfort. Electronic Torque Control (ETC) will ensure intelligent
torque distribution to all wheels for high speed high torque balance.
Other
features include Electronic Stability programme (ESP), Anti-Skid resistance
(ASR) and the Hill Start Assist, which helps to start the car easily on a slope
and other challenging conditions, significantly reducing the risk of a stalled
engine.
Driver
assist features include optimal gear ratio, cruise control, reverse parking
sensors, intelligent electronic stability programme, short turning radius and
an approach and departure angle sensor.
Picture of Sumit
Sawhney with Rafael Treguer