2014 Renault Duster AWD launched in India at Rs 11.89 lakh

Team OD Updated: September 24, 2014, 01:57 PM IST

The AWD version of the much loved Duster is finally here. Renault has just launched its flagship version of the Duster in two flavours in India, the mid spec RXL and top end RXZ. Prices start at Rs 11.89 lakh and go upto Rs 12.99 lakh ex-showroom-Delhi. The Renault Duster AWD offers three modes, operated by a dial in the centre console. These three modes are two-wheel drive, automatic and four-wheel drive which can be manually locked. There is a different suspension set up as well to complement the Duster's new found off-roading capabilities. Our first drive of the new Duster shows that Renault has retained the excellent ride quality that the Duster was always known for. Along with all wheel drive, Renault is also offering hill start assistance. There is also a new 'eco' mode which, the company claims, increases fuel efficiency by as much as 10 per cent.

Renault Duster AWD (5)

The Duster runs the familiar 110PS 1.5-litre diesel which is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Renault claims a fuel efficiency of 19.72kmpl from the Duster AWD. The AWD variant gets slightly different looks from the regular models with noticeable blacked out headlamps, alloys in grey colour and AWD badging. The cabin too differs with a new instrument console, touchscreen audio system and cruise control

Renault Duster AWD launch press release

Renault India launched the exciting Duster All Wheel Drive (AWD) today, delivering on its promise of revolutionizing the automobile industry. Offered at an outstanding value proposition, the new Renault Duster AWD is priced at Rs 11,89,499 lakhs for the RxL variant, and Rs 12,99,499 for the RxZ variant (Delhi ex-). The new Renault Duster AWD delivers the comfort and sophistication of a sedan along with the robust ruggedness, performance and agility of an SUV. Upping the ante in the fast growing SUV segment, the Renault Duster AWD flaunts the i Drive Technology, which delivers technology at the driver's fingertips. This makes the new offering intuitive, interactive, and much more responsive, enabling an unmatched driving A series of progressive features including the ECO Mode, which enables less fuel consumption by up to 10% and best in class safety features like the ABS with EBD and brake assist make the new Renault Duster AWD an all-round superior product delivering great driving pleasure, along with unmatched attributes that ensure economical and safe driving. "Renault is committed to the Indian market and our focus is to offer products that exceed the expectations of customers and set the benchmark for perfection," said Mr. Sumit Sawhney, Country CEO and Managing Director, Renault Operations in India. "In line with this, the new Renault Duster AWD is built to negotiate the most challenging roads and will enable drivers to enjoy the thrill of everyday driving. The Renault Duster 2WD was a runaway success in India, and we are confident that the new Renault Duster AWD will resonate with auto enthusiasts across the country." "We are building a strong runway to expand our presence in India, concentrating on both product expansion and enhancing the customer experience. We are working towards launching a couple of new vehicles in the near-future, as well as expanding our dealer network," concluded Mr. Sawhney. The Renault Duster 2WD proved to be a great option for customers looking at an alternative to the sedan and higher priced SUVs and attracted a new set of aspiring SUV customers. The Renault Duster AWD will build on this legacy, reflecting Renault's brand promise to 'Drive the Change'. Rafael Treguer, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Renault India shared, "The new Renault Duster AWD will enable drivers to enjoy every challenge on the road with the best driving experience. We are offering our customers the best from the Renault stable, in terms of superior performance, contemporary design, innovative technology, excellent ride and handling, uncompromised safety and leading fuel efficiency, and are confident of redefining the segment like we did with the Renault Duster 2WD." The new Renault AWD is available in a palate of 6 exciting colours which include amazon green, pearl galaxy black, pearl supreme white, metallic woodland brown, metallic graphite grey and metallic moonlight silver, and will be available in dealerships across the country.