Time to Ditch the Family Hatchback?
Renault Duster redefines the family car, reports AutoTrader
When the first SUVs graced South African roads we looked on with awe. Here was a car that could wander the veld as easily as fit a gang of sweaty soccer kids and their gear. But it was pricey, and the hatchback stayed the solution for most moms and dads. But the days of struggling to pull the baby-seat out of the family hatch are no more. Renault SA has launched the latest iteration of their sales-topping budget SUV – the new, automatic Duster 1.5 DCi 4×2 EDC – and at a price that many can sink their teeth into.
The Duster EDC gives hardworking moms and dads a full range of luxurious parenting hacks. 475 litres of boot space means piles of school and sports bags are no problem. Cruise control and a speed limiter prevent expensive speeding fines. Other standard convenience features include the winning MediaNav touch screen system with Bluetooth and integrated satnav. Leather in the cabin is optional, making spills easy to clean, while a 210 mm ground clearance makes ramping the pavement for parking at sports days a breeze.
Safety is taken care of too, with four airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake distribution and brake assist, while a standard rearview camera gives parents eyes in the back of their heads.
A 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine with 80 kW and 250 Nm of torque supplies enough power, while keeping the monthly fuel bill low – Renault claims a figure of 4.4 litres per 100 km combined! The Duster EDC can be driven in manual mode as well, for those who need to feel in complete control.
The Duster brings an affordable SUV-option to everyone, without needing to skimp on nappies to make the payments.
In addition to the current line-up of the 1.6 and 1.5 dCi Duster, Renault is now offering a 4×2 dCi Automatic EDC model.
Pricing
Duster 1.6 Expression 4×2 77kW petrol R239 900
Duster 1.6 Dynamique 4×2 77kW petrol R259 900
Duster 1.5 dCi Dynamique 4×2 80kW diesel R279 900
Duster 1.5 dCi Dynamique EDC 80kW diesel R299 900
Duster 1.5 dCi Dynamique 4×4 80kW diesel R304 900
Renault Duster models come standard with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty, a 3-year/45 000km service plan (with service intervals at 15 000km intervals) and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty.