Launched in 2010, the Duster is currently Dacia’s oldest model on offer, as all other nameplates are less than two years old. Moreover, it isn’t only Dacia’s most successful model, but also Renault Group’s best-selling vehicle in the first five months of this year, with 155,729 deliveries worldwide (+59 percent), ahead of the Renault Clio IV (139.397 units), Renault Mégane (133.116) and Sandero (124.918).
To increase sales even more, Renault will freshen up the Duster, with an extensive facelift to be showcased at the upcoming Frankfurt auto show in September, according to a report from French business daily La Tribune.
The restyled Duster will have a completely new front end (possibly inspired by the pictured D-Cross concept) and a thoroughly revised interior, with the SUV to get an upgraded dashboard that will include a touchscreen navigation system, while the upholsteries and door linings will be plusher.
The report adds that the facelifted Duster will have better soundproofing, which is currently one of the downsides of the SUV. The engines will be upgraded in order to emit less CO2 and be more fuel-efficient. All these modifications won’t have an impact on pricing, with the restyled Duster to reportedly start from €11,900 in France, just as the current version.
The Duster makes up a third of Renault’s “Entry” range, itself accounting for 40 percent of the group’s overall sales. The SUV is built in Pitesti, Romania, for the European market, but also in Curitiba (Brazil), Moscow (Russia) and in Chennai (India) for the local markets. The Indian plant also builds right-hand drive Dusters for the UK.
Note: Renault Duster D-Cross Concept featured in gallery
By Dan Mihalascu
PHOTO GALLERY
