The headline version of the previous generation Duster until the arrival of the dual-clutch EDC model, the new 4WD is set to make-up a comparatively small portion of Duster sales when compared to its two-wheel-drive, self-shifting sibling, 10-15% according to Renault, yet La Régie maintains that it again fulfils a specific niche of being a “tough, simple and reliable” off-roader.
The difference is in the name
Viewed from the outside, the 4WD is virtually impossible to distinguish from its front-wheel-drive brethren, with the sole exception of a 4WD badge placed above the indicator on the front wing. Riding as standard on 16-inch alloy wheels, the all-paw gripping Duster retains the simple yet rugged looks of its siblings, with the now trademark C-shaped integrated daytime running LEDs, X-motif taillights and Koleos derived grille adding a premium touch.
Subtle 4WD touches added inside
Inside, the interior has, on first glance, been kept unchanged from rest of the Duster range with an assortment of durable plastics combined with the Sandero derived steering wheel, instrument cluster and the seven-inch MediaNav touchscreen infotainment system, though the biggest change comes in the form of the rotary dial located behind the gear lever that offers three modes; 2WD, Auto that ensures more torque is sent to the rear wheels and Lock that provides a 50/50 torque split between the front and rear axles.
While the 4WD is once again based on the mid-range Dynamique trim level, it does come with a number of bespoke features such as a multi-view camera system, Hill Descent Control, Blind Spot Detection lifted from the range-topping Prestige and a new 4x4 Info monitoring display integrated into the MediaNav that provides readouts of the breakover and departure angles, which Renault claims stands at 30 degrees and 34 degrees, as well as the direction by virtue of a digital compass.
A further addition is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto not included at the Duster’s initial launch and not available on models sold until now, though the rest of the spec sheet is carried over and consists of satellite navigation, cruise control with speed limiter, Bluetooth and USB, rear parking sensors, electric mirrors all around, dual front airbags, ABS with EBA, Hill Start Assist and Electronic Stability Control.
A familiar punch
Up front, Renault has dared not make any changes to an accomplished formula in that the Duster 4WD comes powered by the reputable 1.5 dCi turbodiesel engine that makes 80 kW and 260 N.m, 14 kW and 50 N.m more than the equivalent front-hooking model and the same as the Prestige. As before, the oil-burner is teamed to a six-speed manual gearbox, though the six-speed EDC could well be added at a later stage if demand dictates.
The drive
Out on the local launch route that centred around the Cradle of Humankind and Hartbeespoort, the Duster felt at ease on the black stuff thanks to a softy-sprung ride, supportive seats and a more refined interior that comes with a welcome improvement in noise, vibration and harshness levels. In spite of its renowned prowess, the K9K four-pot is still a bit hamstrung by some low-down turbo-lag which saw it running a bit low on puff on the hilly sections, though this was offset by the slick shifting ‘box.
The Duster’s biggest surprise though was its off-road performance where a series of bumpy, waterlogged sections failed to upset it mostly as a result of the ride and the very handy 210mm of ground clearance. On a specially laid-out off-road track, the Duster made light work of the succession of tight bends, hillocks and ruts while impressing with its relatively light steering and ability to trek easily downhill thanks to the aforementioned Hill Descent Control.
Conclusion
Although the lack of an automatic gearbox could deter potential buyers from opting for the 4x4 Duster, its otherwise entry to the local line-up has not only resulted in there being a model for nearly every taste now, but arguably sees it rating as the best of both worlds by combining the everyday appeal of a small SUV, with some go-anywhere capability that will embarrass more expensive and bigger pavement huggers.
Add in its list of standard equipment, thrifty diesel engine and an exceptionally attractive sticker price, the Duster 4WD might very rate as all the SUV you will ever need.
Price and Warranty
Standard on all models is a five year/150 000 km warranty and a three year/45 000 km service plan
1.6 Expression - R255 900
1.5 dCi Dynamique - R288 900
1.5 dCi Dynamique EDC - R322 900
1.5 dCi Dynamique 4x4 - R327 900
1.5 dCi Prestige EDC - R340 900
