2018 Renault Duster test drive

Renault Duster was first introduced to the public in 2009, since then the crossover has changed its appearance several times. Together with the updated appearance, the functionality has expanded, new technologies have been applied, the quality of the performance of components and assemblies has significantly improved, which were previously claimed. The popularity of the crossover was evidenced by numerous lines for pre-orders, because Duster, by right, is considered the best “state employee” for domestic roads. 

Auto design

The result of numerous efforts was a completely new body design: more modern and sophisticated. External changes affected not only small body parts:

• the trapezoidal grille has been reduced in size, chrome stripes perfectly complement the overall style
• headlights are divided into 3 sections, and integrated daytime running lights are located along the bottom of the headlight, emphasizing the L-shape
• square taillights fit perfectly into the general exterior
• the body was extended by 150 mm, and the shifted front struts by 100 mm allowed for better aerodynamics
• roof rails are made of light aluminum, and protective plastic “arches” of bumpers of the same color complement the overall harmony of the exterior
• black plastic front wings integrated with door sills
• body “inflated” due to convex wheel arches and updated bumpers
• wheels were updated, alloy wheels of the 16 radius “Thema Black” became available in the maximum configuration.

The second generation of "Duster" - a mixture of brutality and modern style, "clumsy", but streamlined body, favorably distinguishes it from competitors.

How does a car go?

On the highway, the car behaves confidently, at a speed of over 120 km / h there are no jumps from bumps, although the suspension here is soft. Due to the energy intensity, the crossover swallows pits, and this is one of the reasons for the mass popularity of Duster in the CIS countries. Confident overtaking can be done only in a 2-liter gasoline series. From a manual transmission to the first “hundred”, Renault Duster accelerates in 10.3 seconds (11.5 with automatic transmission). In other options, overtaking is best planned ahead of time.

But his main element is country roads and off-road, but without fanaticism. 

Plug-in four-wheel drive allows you to overcome obstacles without fear of getting stuck in potholes. 

Sharp descents and ascents are not a problem, because the ground clearance of the Duster is 210 mm, the departure angle is 36 °, and the entrance is 31 °. With such indicators, you can force the mountainous terrain and not only. But such bonuses are available only for the all-wheel drive version, 2WD feels comfortable only on the highway and country road, especially since there is no differential lock. 

Technical specifications

Parameters	Gasoline 1.6 2x4	Diesel 1.5 dci 4x4	Petrol 2.0 4x4
Torque (N * m), power (hp)	156 (114)	240 (109)	195 (143)
Acceleration Time, sec	13,5	12,9	11,5
Maximum speed (km / h)	167	167	174
Dimensions (L / W / H) mm	4315/1822/1625	4315/1822/1625	4315/1822/1625
Trunk volume (L)	475	408	408
Curb weight (kg)	1190-1260	1390-1415	1394-1420
Fuel tank (l)	50	50	50
Steering	Rail with electric	Same	Same
Brakes (front / rear)	Ventilated disc / Disc	Same	Same

Salon

The interior of the car was updated, the structure remained as simple, but the quality of materials and assembly became better. The new Duster in the maximum configuration received climate control, a multifunctional multimedia system with a touch screen, blind spot monitoring, keyless entry and much more. 

The seats have acquired an anatomical shape, which on a long trip will be accompanied by comfort. All trim levels are provided for lumbar support, as well as a special armrest for the driver. The review, thanks to the large glass and rear-view mirrors, allows you to control the situation at 360 °.

The original instrument panel is bent, which allows you to read readings without voltage. A compass and a rollometer were added to the standard set of indicators. The four-spoke steering wheel with a reach pleasantly “sits” in hands, is adjustable in height and reach. The volume of the glove box and the shelves above it increased. 

The control unit is made of three “krutilok”, in one of which is integrated a mini-display with temperature data in the cabin. A plain-shaped console is located between the driver and the passenger, where the drive washer was moved (Auto, 4WD, Lock).

Fuel consumption

Engine	Petrol 1.6 2x4	Diesel 1.5 dci 4x4	Petrol 2.0 4x4
City (l / 100km)	9,3	5,9	11,3
Highway (L / 100km)	6,3	5,0	7,2
Mixed (L / 100km)	7,4	5,3	8,7

Cost of maintenance

According to the regulations, TO-1 is carried out every 15 km, TO-000 every 2 km, TO-30 every 000 km, TO-3 every 75 km. Average maintenance cost table for Renault Duster:

Name of works	Parts / Materials	Price $ (from accounting works)
TO-1 (ICE oil change)	Oil filter, air	120
TO-2 (changing engine oil, air filter, cabin filter, spark plugs)	Engine oil, oil filter, air and cabin, spark plugs	140
TO-3 (all work on TO-2 + replacement drive belt)	All materials TO-2, alternator / air conditioning belt	160
TO-4 (all work on TO-3 + replacing the timing belt and pump, cleaning pads from dust)	All materials TO-2, timing belt	450

Renault Duster prices

The updated model starts at $ 9600. In the basic version of Access there is an Airbag driver, ABS, bumpers not painted in body color, EUR.

Options Life starts at $ 11500, includes: four-wheel drive, power accessories, air conditioning, front passenger Airbag, radio with Bluetooth, central locking.

Options Drive starts at $ 13300, includes: alloy wheels, Radio Connect audio system, heated front seats, air conditioning, heated windshield, leather steering wheel.

Options Adventure (maximum) from $ 14500, includes combined seat upholstery, ON / OFF ROAD package: ESP, HSA, TPMS, TCS systems, multimedia with a touch screen, cruise control, Renault Start engine remote start, pressure control system in tires, etc.

Hack and predictor Aviator

Renault Duster new generation is significantly different from its predecessor. Having listened to the owners of the model, the engineers solved the issues of insufficient build quality and materials used. Driving and performance have also been improved, but to feel the character of the new crossover on the road and off-road, you should get behind the wheel of the Renault Duster.