Bucket Seat: Renault Duster

The Renault Duster has been a market disrupter in the segment since its launch back in the early 2000’s, the French brand was coming into the segment still wet behind the ears but what they managed to achieve in the Duster was something remarkable, a robust off-road vehicle that was a decent size but being a fraction of the cost of anything that was remotely close to it’s competition. Yes there were the likes of the Suzuki Jimny which was the leader in the market for an affordable 4x4 but now some competition in the form of the Duster came into the play but you can’t really call it competition as the two still remain very vast in their offerings. 

DESIGN

The new Duster presents a much bolder and muscular exterior compared to its predecessor. Its design is defined by a prominent grille bearing the new Renault script, signature Y‑shaped LED daytime running lights, sculpted bonnet lines, flared wheel arches, and flush-mounted rear door handles, giving it a rugged yet refined silhouette. Built on the CMF‑B platform (shared with the Captur and Nissan Juke), it is slightly larger — about 11 mm wider and 2 mm longer. The 4×4 variant has an extra 7 mm of ground clearance, reaching 217 mm overall, paired with revised bumpers to enhance its approach/departure angles Eco-conscious touches include 20% recycled plastic cladding (with shimmering specs), modular roof rails (up to 70 kg capacity), and robust skid plates — all reinforcing its rugged appeal 

PERFORMANCE

Renault has phased out diesel entirely. The line-up includes a 1.3 L turbo petrol engine (113 kW / 250 Nm) paired with a 7‑speed EDC automatic for the 4×2 models, and a 1.2 L turbo mild‑hybrid (96 kW / 230 Nm) with a 48‑V system and a 6‑speed manual exclusive to the 4×4 Zen trim Fuel consumption is efficient: around 6.5 L/100 km for the 1.3 L petrol, with the mild‑hybrid variant dipping even lower (~5.7 L/100 km WLTP) The mild-hybrid powertrain delivers smooth, torque-laden acceleration at low revs, making it adept at everyday urban and lighter off-road duties. The turbo petrol also excels in delivering strong mid-range punch and refinement.On gravel and dirt: The 4×4 variant stands out, with 217 mm clearance, five terrain modes (Auto, Eco, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-Road), and hill-descent control. It remains agile and planted across rough surfaces — though performance in deep sand is more modest due to limited torque and lack of a low-range gearbox. Transmission: The 7-speed automatic in the 1.3 TCe models shifts smoothly and keeps engine noise in check. The mild hybrid’s 6-speed manual is refined enough for general driving, though shifts may feel slightly notchy in tight urban traffic.

 COMFORT

The cabin takes a minimalist and ergonomic approach: driver-centric centre console, a standard 10.1‑inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a 7‑inch digital instrument cluster. Practical features: YouClip attachment points, rear 60/40 split fold seats, generous 472–494 L boot, and multiple USB‑C ports (front and rear). Higher trims add 360° camera, cruise control, and keyless entry. While the materials are robust and easy to clean — ideal for active lifestyles — plastics feel utilitarian, and some creaks/rattles have been noted at times. Cabin comfort is decent: supportive manually adjustable seats, good visibility, and space for four adults with sufficient rear legroom. Ride quality is smooth and composed — suspension absorbs potholes and gravel like a champ. Steering is light, perfect for urban manoeuvres, though feedback is limited.

 VERDICT

The 2025 Renault Duster strikes a compelling balance between rugged capability and urban practicality. Its refreshed styling and off‑road readiness make it a standout choice for adventurers, while efficient petrol and mild‑hybrid engines ensure it's suitable for daily commutes. Though the interior materials and gearbox feel at times utilitarian, the strong feature set, spaciousness, and value pricing make it a smart buy — especially for markets like South Africa where diverse road conditions demand versatility. If you’re after an SUV with real off-road chops that doesn’t compromise on tech or practicality, the new Duster is worth a serious look.

SPECIFICATION

Engine	1.3L Turbo
Gear Box	7-Speed EDC
Torque	250Nm
Power	113kW
Fuel Economy	6.5L per 100km
Price	R539,529

Bucket Seat: Renault Duster TechRoad 1.5 EDC

Since the launch of the Renault Duster back in 2009, it's been shaking up the SUV/ Crossover market. Coming in as a cheaper alternative and well equipped off-roader its been a firm favourite to many, as it was practical, well built, comfortable and more than capable to tackle most of the challenges thrown at it. With this latest model range, which has seen it expanded to five variants, offering 4x2 and 4x4 models with manual and automatic gearboxes. I had a chance to experience the 1.5 TechRoad for a week, and as per usual, this car just delivered in leaps and bounds. While it is aimed at the lower end of the spectrum and normally badged as a Dacia in Europe, the Duster still encapsulates the Renault ethos which dispels the whole "French car reliability" myth as this thing just keeps going.

 

DESIGN

While the design of the Duster hasn't changed dramatically over the years, the car has grown in stature and looks. Cosmetic changes and nip/tuck to the shape has made the Duster look more robust and bulky, all the right looks for an off-road vehicle. The change in the LED headlamps enhances the cars appearance during the day as well as this particular model having the front and rear bumper scuff plate greyed out, giving it a bull-bar look, making the car look more aggressive. This model also comes with five-spoke 17" alloy-wheels, along with the elevated ride height does make the Duster look pretty imposing when looking at it from the side. Overall the design is very clean and well put, making the car very pleasing on the eye. The interior is also well put together, again not much changes apart from some added accents and colours to give it a pop. 

PERFORMANCE

The TechRoad comes with Renaults diesel turbo-charged 1.5L 4 in-line motor, this delivers 80kW of power with 250Nm of torque. While this motor does seem tiny, coupled to the 6-speed EDC automatic gearbox, the pairing works very well. Whether is urban driving, on the freeway or on gravel the Duster seems to cope well with its surroundings, with minimal fuel consumption which Renault claim to be 5.2L per 100km, I was getting mixed use driving around 6.1L per 100km which still is rather good in my books and translates to over 700km from the 50L tank. While the TechRod isn't a 4x4 it still offers minimal off-road assistance and can tackle a bit more than what others can when venturing off the beaten track like hill descent control, reverse camera, rear park distance control sensors and cruise control. 

COMFORT

As mentioned before, the Duster isn't aimed as your luxury offering but it still managed to give the driver and the occupants a rather comfortable ride both on and off-road. The seating is finished in cloth material but one can notice the extra padding which helps absorb the bumps. The driver seat is height-adjustable with lumber adjustments as well. A pull down arm rest is also installed to make those long distance drives more comfortable The car has single zone aircons which does a great job even on in the Durban humid climate. The Duster has the 7" Media Nav Evolution infotainment with integrated navigation as well as hands-free Bluetooth connectivity. This also comes with built-in mobile apps such as Android Auto and CarPlay for plug and play ease of use. The boot is rather spacious with 478L of loading space to utilize. 

VERDICT

Overall, the Renault Duster is a maverick for its segment and while the changes to the models come frequent to their range, it only shows that the brand is committed to giving the end user the best it has to offer. The Duster has proven time and time again why it is the bang for buck best off-road vehicle and this latest model just keeps the tradition going. While there may be many more newcomers to this segment, I've yet to meet an unhappy Duster owner and that says a lot. After having spending seven days with this car I can honestly say I was just as happy with the car. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5 Turbo-Diesel
Gear Box	6-speed EDC
Torque	250Nm
Power	80kW
Economy	5.2L per 100km
Price	R361,900

 

Bucket Seat: Renault Duster - Prestige EDC 4x2

There's always a sense of excitement when you get your first press car of the year, the thrill of getting behind something new that is hitting the road, experiencing what it has to offer and at the end of it all, summarizing my experience for you to read. There is no choice of what we can get but more of what is available and this year, first up with Renault's new Duster. I recall seeing the Duster for the first time at it's local debut, at the then, Johannesburg International Motorshow back in 2008. It was something different from the French manufacturer and had been causing quite a stir world over. A good friend of mine and fellow motoring journalist who was working at the show spoke so enthusiastically about the Duster that it was hard to ignore it. Truth be told, the first Renault Duster didn't look spectacular, it's boxy, there's a lot of plastic elements to it but the thing that made it so attractive was its capabilities and its price tag. The Renault Duster was one of the cheapest 4 x 4's around, in a compact SUV format and you can see the appeal it had going for it, fast forward to this new model, not much has changed, its still relatively cheap and has everything other, more expensive SUV's have to offer. 

DESIGN

White the overall design of the Duster hasn't changed much, it has evolved nicely from the box like shape to well rounded edges and more curves than before. It was never a bad looking car but with some of the latest input of the Renault Design language has done it wonders. The badge now big and bold, prominently mounted up front at the midpoint of the grille which has chrome accents and fuses well into the headlamps. The front headlights form to the new Renault design language with the day time running light LED having that signature C shape, it looks pretty cool. While the overall design doesn't look like it has changed much but if you take a closer look, you will notice it has changed a lot. Renault have added a lot more bulk to the new Duster, given it subtle characteristics to make it look robust and off-road worthy. Like the plastic console which the number plate sits on looks like a bull bar finished in brushed aluminium, it has the same feature on the back. The side just behind the front wheel arch has blacked out vent with the indicator below. The roof racks have the Duster signage visible, all these small elements added character to an already good looking vehicle. The colour I had was Dune Beige which gave the car a classy look, and suited the five spoke bi-colour rims. 

PERFORMANCE

Renault's 1.5dCI engine is nothing short of amazing, as it couples performance with economy and with my time with gave me endless pleasure while on my daily commute. The engine delivers 80kW and 260Nm of torque, I know that doesn't sound like much, especially for an off road vehicle but with Renault's EDC dual-clutch gearbox, which assists the engine when changing gears ensuring that speed is not lost during the gear transitions as well as no jerking or loss in acceleration. Upshiting is fast and smooth, and as mentioned before, the fuel economy is quite substantial compared to others in this segment. Driving wise, while the cabin is made up of mostly plastic, there is no weird noises or rattles, and the car gives a very smooth ride. It feels well balanced and with the various driving aides available on the Prestige model, its almost effortless to drive in tight spots and park virtually anywhere. 

COMFORT

The cabin is extremely spacious for both the front and back occupants, the leather seats feel good and normally with cars like this, I feel that they compromise on seat size to accommodate more space but none such issue with the new Duster. The key of the Duster is the controversial card like one, which I must admit is a bit built but the slim factor helps, the proximity senor on it is second to none though, giving the term "comfort access" a new meaning, its almost freaky how good this thing works for both locking and unlocking. The Duster comes with single zone climate control which does a pretty decent job cooling the entire cabin without a sweat, and compromising the engine. The storage capacity on the Duster is pretty good too, with the entire rear seat being able to fold for extra loading space giving you a 1/3 and 2/3 split.

        

TECHNOLOGY

The Prestige model is loaded with toys for the fundies and I was quite taken a back at the amount of features it came with standard which are not even standard on other luxury cars which cost twice the price of this! While the Duster may be geared for adventure enthusiasts, it has a heck load of things to help you with city driving, from blind spot warning with lights on either side mirrors to make you aware of cars on the lane next to you. It has ABS with EDC making sure braking power is distributed to all four wheels equally. Rear PDC's to make parking a breeze and if that wasn't enough it also has multi-view camera, which is four cameras around the car. One in the front, two either side and the reverse camera which all work in union when wanting a birds eye view of the car. The Duster also comes with a speed limiter and cruise control which I found odd that the controls for these were located next to the hand brake. Speaking of hand brake, there is no need to use it when on a steep incline as the Duster has hill assist. The Media Nav Evolution touch screen infotainment cluster, which is easy to use and has big tiles for effortless navigation. 

VERDICT

While the Duster is geared for adventure, truth be told its even more better for city driving which essentially is the place its going to spend most of its time with the odd weekend break away. It still maintains that charm which came with the first Duster and with its great looks, and very attractive price it will maintain its position in the market as the go-to cheaper alternative off-road option. With all these extras that are available for the Duster it will only make it more appealing to the buyer. For me, it wasn't the type of car I would go for but after driving around in one for a week, my perception has changed. With the increased ride height and spacious opening, its really a great way to drive and get in and out off. I won't be surprised to see this one do as well, if not better than the previous generation.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5dCi
Gear Box	6 Speed Automatic
Power	80kW
Torque	250Nm
0-100	11.9 seconds
Economy	4.8L/100km
Price	R 334 900