Modern take
Dacia has unveiled the third-generation of the Duster and it feels like a big step up from the first-generation model
THERE ARE MULTIPLE NEW ENGINE OPTIONS IN THE NEW DUSTER
THE THIRD-GENERATION DACIA Duster has been unveiled, and a quick glance will reveal that it's a massive modern leap ahead from the firstgeneration Duster that was discontinued in India in 2022. It is built on a new CMF-B platform, has a modern design and does away with the drab interiors that were a major reason for its discontinuation in India.
Talking about the exteriors first, it now has pronounced fenders, boxier wheel arches and oversized skid plates in its third-generation iteration. The bodywork gets a generous amount of plastic cladding made of a material called Starkle, which is made from 20 per cent reused polypropylene. This Duster is also off-road ready with a ground clearance of 217mm, a 31-degree approach angle, a 24-degree breakover angle and a 36-degree departure angle.
Step inside and you will be surprised at how much more premium the Duster has gotten. We of course are at the disadvantage of not seeing the second-gen Duster in India however this new Duster, at least from the images feels like a massive step up. The dashboard has been updated to include a 10.1-inch floating touchscreen and a 7-inch driver's display behind a new three-spoke steering wheel. It is also loaded with features just like any other modern SUV.
There are multiple new engine options in the new Duster however the one that matters, should the Duster come to India badged as a Renault, will be a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbo-petrol mill with a 48V mildhybrid system. This engine is internationally available as a 4x2 or a 4x4. Should Renault choose to go green, a 1.6-litre engine that is mated to two electric motors powered by a 1.2kWh battery could also be considered. There is so much speculation, however there's no communication from Renault India to indicate the Duster will make it to our shores yet. The enthusiast in us hopes Renault brings back the Duster though. ⌧