The manufacturing operations of the first-generation Renault Duster have come to a close
Renault has finally stopped manufacturing the Duster which has had a pretty long lifespan in India. It will be replaced by the upcoming third-generation Duster next year.
The first-generation model which was introduced in 2012 is currently priced between Rs. 9.86 lakhs and Rs. 14.25 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi). It is offered with 2 engine options – 1.3-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre petrol unit.
Renault’s dealers can be expected to quickly dispense with the remaining stocks of the compact SUV, and concentrate on retailing the Kwid, Triber, and Kiger, of which the compact MPV should soon get the Kiger’s 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol motor.
Having skipped the introduction of the second-generation Duster in India, Renault prolonged the existence of the original Duster in the country. But, the compact SUV could not make an impact after the introduction of more modern crossovers which necessarily did not have the mechanical robustness of the Duster.
The third-generation Duster is expected to come to India in 2023, a few months after its global debut takes place. It will be based on the Renault Group’s CMF-B architecture and will be bigger than even the second-generation Duster.
Renault could offer the new compact SUV with electrified powertrains in order to stand a fighting chance against the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Skoda Kushaq and the like.