Renault has given the Indian version of the Duster SUV an all wheel drive option.
Renault Duster AWD
Renault has given the Indian version of the Duster SUV an all wheel drive option. The Duster AWD was just launched in India three days ago. Renault used to make the Duster AWD in India even before this launch but the SUV’s AWD variants were only for export markets. The SUV is available in two variants, RXL and RXZ. Both variants of the Duster use a diesel engine. The diesel engine is a 1.5 liter, four cylinder unit that comes with 110 PS of maximum power and 240 Nm of maximum torque. A six speed manual gearbox is offered with this engine.
The all wheel drive Duster’s RXL variant is priced at Rs. 11.89 lakhs and the the RXZ variant is priced at Rs. 12.99 lakhs ex Delhi. Apart from getting the all wheel drive capability, the SUV also gets new features that are limited to the AWD variants. ESP, hill start assist, anti skid regulation, and independent rear suspension are four such features. The top of the line RXZ variant also gets cruise control. Both AWD Duster variants get the 4X4 badges, side graphics, anthracite finish alloy wheels and a new fabric finish on the interiors which get contrast red stitching.
The Renault Medianav touch screen panel occupies the center console of the Duster AWD and this system handles both navigation and entertainment. Let’s get into the details of the AWD system on the Duster. The AWD system uses a Haldex clutch. The Duster is a front wheel drive machine and the AWD system kicks in when it detects wheel slip. Once wheel slip is detected, the AWD system send torque to the rear wheels of the SUV to improve grip levels. The AWD is operated by a knob placed on the center console. This knob comes with auto, lock and two wheel drive modes. Auto mode works when wheel slip is detected. Lock mode keeps the Duster in AWD until 60 Kph. Two wheel drive is the regular front wheel drive mode.