Renault Duster Four Wheel Drive SUV Teasers Out

Renault India is all set to launch the all wheel drive variant of its best selling Duster SUV. The French automaker has released teasers of the Duster AWD SUV. Due for a launch before the end of this month, the Duster AWD will be a new go-anywhere option for touring enthusiasts in India, whose other options thus far, were limited to the likes of the Mahindra Thar 4X4, Scorpio 4X4 and the Tata Safari 4X4.

At a similar price band (an ex-showroom price of under 13 lakh rupees), the monocoque bodied, 5 seat Duster AWD promises to bring more refinement and comfort than the ladder framed, 7 seat SUV alternates. The Duster’s car-like on road manners combined with  generous 205 mm ground clearance and the 5.2 meter turning radius, is expected to give the SUV a Jekkyl-and-Hyde personality, making its occupants feel at ease both on and off the road.

The Duster AWD gains significant mechanical equipment. A four wheel drive system driven by a HALDEX clutch and independent rear suspension are the major mechanical upgrades to the SUV, whose 4 wheel drive variants will be offered with a 1.5 liter K9K turbo diesel engine in 108 Bhp-248 Nm state of tune. A six speed manual gearbox will handle torque transfer functions. Interestingly, the Duster AWD delivers an ARAI certified 19.72 Kmpl mileage figure, which is 0.71 Kmpl more than the front wheel driven 110 PS Diesel model.

The other interesting feature additions on the Duster AWD include cruise control, hill start assist, anti-slip regulation and an electronic stability program. In terms of cosmetics, the Duster 4X4/AWD will be fettled out with an Adventure body kit. On the inside, upholstery changes with red stitching will differentiate the all wheel drive Duster from its front wheel driven siblings. The Duster 4X4 is expected to be made available in two variants, with the lower variant ditching alloy wheels for the more-rugged steel rims. CarToq tells you all you need to know about the Duster AWD right here.