Renault South Africa has revealed that its new Duster sports utility vehicle (SUV) will be hitting local streets and showrooms on 16 September.  

According to the French car maker, the Renault Duster 1.6 Expression 4x2 has been designed for drivers looking for better ground clearance, an elevated driving position for better all-round visibility, and reasonably good off-road handling. Practicality is also offered courtesy of a class leading 475 litre boot capacity.

Under the French bonnet

The Duster is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.6 engine that cranks out 75 kW of power and a peak torque figure of 145 Nm. Renault stated that the Duster line-up will also include a 4x4 version as well as a diesel powered variant, with more info being made available during the launch of the vehicle.

For a sub-R200 000 base model, the Duster 1.6 Expression 4x2 is pretty well specced.

Standard features include air conditioning, ABS with EBD, power-assisted steering, six-function on-board computer, front and side airbags, electric windows front and rear, electric mirrors, and remote central locking. In addition, buyers can also count reverse parking sensors, 16" wheels, CD/MP3/radio with Bluetooth connectivity and satellite audio controls amongst the list of standard kit.

To the point

The RRP of the Duster 1.6 Expression 4x2 is R194 900. Like the rest of the vehicles in the Renault product range, the Duster SUV comes with a standard service plan, 5 year or 150 000km warranty as well as a 6 year anti-corrosion warranty.

In other motoring related news, check out our Top 5 premium hatchback choices here.