By: Jason Woosey
Nearly two years after its local introduction, and a not-too-shabby 8000 sales later, Renault is dusting off its budget SUV with a facelift.
The Duster's upgrade also coincides with change in production source. Whereas pre-facelifted models came from Chennai in India, the new versions are shipped from Pitesti in Romania, a move that Renault SA believes will reduce lead times and provide what it calls a "more refined build".
WHAT ELSE IS NEW THEN?
At the front you'll notice a more muscular grille design that uses less chrome to create a cleaner look while the side view has been updated with fresh alloy wheel designs and chunky new roof bars.
Inside the plain fabric that covered the seats of the previous model has made way for a patterned cloth, while leather is available as an option on all Dynamique versions.
Cruise control joins the standard features list on the base model, which already includes air conditioning, front electric windows, audio system as well as front and side airbags and ABS.
As before the Dynamiques also come with Renault's seven-inch MediaNav touch-screen with integrated satnav, among other additions.
Likewise, the trusty old engine line-up remains untouched with Renault's 75kW normally aspirated 1.6-litre petrol serving the more price-conscious customers and the economical 1.5-litre dCi turbodiesel, with 80kW and 240Nm, forming the upper range.
The diesel is also available with four-wheel drive and remains one of SA's most affordable options for those wanting something that is relatively capable off the beaten track.
PRICES
1.6 Expression 4x2 - R215 900
1.6 Dynamique 4x2 - R233 900
1.5 dCi Dynamique 4x2 - R254 900
1.5 dCi Dynamique 4x4 - R269 900