The Renault Duster facelift is expected to go on sale by the end of 2015 and is also likely to get an automatic transmission option this time.
Renault India with the Duster kickstarted the compact SUV trend in the country that today witnesses the presence of manufacturers like Ford, Hyundai, Maruti, Nissan among others. The Duster arrived in India in 2012 and while the SUV was updated internationally in 2013, the facelift is yet to make it on Indian roads. Nonetheless, the French automaker has finally commenced work on introducing a comprehensive update to the India spec Duster and a camouflaged test mule with a cosmetically upgraded front fascia was spotted for the first time in Chennai.
Showcasing a host of details, the 2016 Renault Duster facelift spied looks similar to the Brazilian-spec version introduced in March this year. Going by the images, the front fascia could feature a new twin-slat grille (hopefully finished in gloss black) with a large Renault lozenge resting in the centre, and replaces the outgoing three-slat chrome unit. The headlight cluster (although not clearly visible) gets new elements and could be similar to the one found on the South American model. New alloy wheels have also been spotted on the compact SUV that look trendy when compared to the current bland 5-spoke units.
The side profile remains the same, whereas the rear although covered up does indicate revised tail light cluster that could get LEDs along with mild tweaks to the tailgate. The front and rear bumpers are also expected to be revised on the 2016 Renault Duster facelift. Inside the cabin, we hope to see better quality plastics being used this time along with the addition of some new features. Engine options will remain the same with power coming from a 1.5-litre diesel engine producing 85 PS and 110 PS.
The major upgrade though could be the addition of a new 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission on the 2016 Renault Duster facelift and will most likely be offered on the 110 PS version alone. The 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual and AWD versions of the compact SUV will continue to exist. With the Hyundai Creta and Maruti S-Cross having arrived in the segment, the Duster has taken a massive hit in sales and Renault needs to up its game in order to retain the volumes of its bread and butter product. A price revision will also be appreciated on the facelifted model for that extra competitive spirit.
Spy Pictures Source – Team-BHP.com
