2016 Renault Duster Facelift

In a first ever major facelift to the popular Duster SUV since its launch in 2012, Renault India today unveiled the 2016 model year Duster for the Indian market at the floors of the 2016 Auto Expo.

Apart from exterior and interior design tweaks, the Duster gets Easy-R AMT technology in the 110 PS variant.

The new Duster now delivers a refreshed and more appealing looks than before, thanks to the redesigned headlamp units with LED DRLs and funky gloss-black grille that dominates the front fascia. On the side, the large skid guard and few body panels are new. The aluminium-looking roof rails are new, while the taillamps get LED treatment that presents the car more premium. The muscular-looking alloy wheels are equally eye-catching. On the inside, the designers have played a clever bet minor tweaks, like the shiny single piece centre console panel and revised button and display graphics.

In terms of the tech-specs, the new Duster is largely the same with the 1.5-litre K9K Diesel engine that is offered in two power outputs - 85 PS and 110 PS. Although Renault claims that certain changes in the engine architecture and compartment has been made for improved refinement. While the 85 PS variant comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, the peppy 110 PS now gets the option of an AMT gearbox - what the Renault calls as Easy-R AMT technology.

Also Read: Our review of the out-going Renault Duster

Although an AMT is decent and appreciable, it is to be noted that Duster's key rivals such as Mahindra Scorpio and Hyundai Creta offer fully automatic transmission. As before, the option of an AWD system, ESP, and Hill Start, along with independent suspension is available at the top-end trim for the buyers to choose.