Next-generation Renault Duster coming to South Africa – Dates and details

Renault South Africa is “exploring the viability” of launching the next-generation Renault Duster in the country in the latter half of 2024, the subsidiary confirmed to TopAuto.

The rollout will commence with the 4×4 variant, said the automaker, after which we expect the 4×2 models will also come to local showrooms.

Revealed for the European market last week in the form of the Dacia Duster, the new crossover sports a completely reimagined exterior design, updated equipment, and an assortment of hybrid drivetrains.

What to expect

The new Duster sits on the company’s CMF-B platform which has led to a subtle growth spurt as well as a reduction in road noise and vibrations.

The crossover now measures 4,343mm long, an increase of 2mm over the current generation, 1,810mm wide (+6mm), and 1,656mm tall (-37mm); while ground clearance has been upped from an already generous 210mm to 217mm.

Luggage capacity for the new 4×4 Duster comes in at 472 litres, a noticeable increase over the outgoing model’s 414 litres; and the approach and departure angles are now at 31 and 36 degrees, respectively, up from 30 and 34 degrees.

With overall more muscular proportions than before, the next-gen crossover sees more angular lines than the Duster that is on the market today and boasts a new grille, restyled front and rear skid plates, as well as an ” extra-heavy-duty shield” made from recycled plastic that wraps around the lower side of the body to protect the paint from bumps and scratches.

However, given that the South African Duster will be badged as a Renault, it will likely have a different grille and headlights from the European Dacia.

Like the body, the new Duster’s cabin and spec sheet were on the receiving end of a raft of upgrades encompassing an overhauled front fascia and enhanced tech and equipment.

Highlights take the shape of auto high-beam LED headlights, climate control, keyless entry and start, washable TEP MicroCloud upholstery, a wireless phone charger, an electric parking brake, a six-speaker Arkamys 3D stereo, a 7-inch digital driver’s display, and a 10.1-inch infotainment unit with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, and real-time traffic updates.

Select derivatives also have a new function that displays power distribution to the front and rear axles, lateral tilt, and uphill and downhill pitch during off-road driving sessions; in addition to a new Terrain Control system with Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-Road, and Eco drive settings.

In Europe, the next-gen crossover gives buyers a choice between three drivelines, including one bi-fuel unit and two hybrids.

The bi-fuel motor generates 74kW and can run on both petrol and LP gas, offering a maximum range of 1,300km if both 50-litre tanks are filled up.

The second powerline consists of a 1.2-litre, turbo-petrol engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system that aids in acceleration and fuel usage. This configuration produces around 96kW and features regenerative braking that charges the 0.9kWh battery.

The most powerful setup combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine and two electric motors connected to a 1.2kWh battery for an overall output of 103kW, with the added ability to drive in all-electric mode for up to 80% of the time in cities, which reduces consumption by anywhere from 20% to 40%, said Renault.

It’s worth mentioning the petrol Duster was discontinued in South Africa a few years ago and that the crossover is presently only available as a diesel in our market.

Renault South Africa did not provide feedback when asked about the engine line-up for the new model, so it remains to be seen whether any of the petrol-hybrid plants will land in local dealerships.

More information regarding the new Duster, such as its South African pricing, line-up, and features, will be announced closer to its launch date.

2024 Dacia Duster