Renault drops Duster price by Rs. 30,000

Earlier this year, Renault launched an updated version of the Duster. Prices for the SUV started at Rs. 8.30 lakh. Now, the French manufacturer has reduced the price of the vehicle by Rs. 30,000. According to the company's website, the Duster range now starts at Rs. 7.99 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi). The model page however, does not reflect the reduced prices.

The updated Duster was given features such as a soft touch dashboard, a new instrument cluster with a new multi information display with service reminders and a gearshift indicator, an arm rest and new fabric upholstery. The Duster also got an ECO mode feature, cruise control and speed limiter, new steering column, a speed-sensitive door lock and better noise insulation.

The Duster is available with a choice of petrol and diesel engines:

• 1598 cc, 4-cylinder petrol, 103 bhp @ 5750 rpm, 148 Nm @ 3750 rpm, 5-speed manual, front-wheel drive
• 1461 cc, 4-cylinder diesel, 84 bhp @ 3750 rpm, 200 Nm @ 1750 rpm, 5-speed manual, front-wheel drive
• 1461 cc, 4-cylinder diesel, 108 bhp @ 4000 rpm, 245 Nm @ 1750 rpm, 6-speed manual, front-wheel drive / all-wheel drive

The Duster has been Renault's only successful model in India, regularly selling more than 3,000 units per month. With the reduced prices, the Renault will be hoping to keep its sales strong. Competition in the compact SUV market is heating up. The Ford EcoSport has been a consistent performer and other manufacturers are gearing up to enter the segment.