Flagship variant of the Duster to increase functionality and appeal.
Renault India is gearing up to launch the 4x4 variant on the Duster this festive season. Indian Autos Blog learns that the Duster 4x4 will be called the 'Duster AWD' in India, and that a launch would take place in September.
In a buildup to the launch, the company will be showcasing the Duster AWD to Duster owners part of the 'Gang of Dusters' club. The preview is slated to happen this week.
The Duster AWD will be the flagship variant of the crossover, and is expected to command a premium of INR 1 lakh over the existing top-end variant. It will get power from the 1.5-liter four-cylinder K9K diesel engine which puts out 110 PS (108.45 bhp) and 248 Nm of torque, matched to a 6-speed manual transmission.
Apart from the 4WD system itself, the Duster AWD will have other features such as ABS, EBD, dual airbags, integrated music system, alloy wheels, electrically adjustable wing mirrors and a rear wiper with washer.
Indirect competition for the Duster AWD will come from the Scorpio 4x4 and Safari Storme 4x4.
Competitors: Mahindra Scorpio 4x4, Tata Safari Storme 4x4
Expected Price: INR 12.9 lakhs, ex-Showroom, New Delhi
Launch Date: September 2014
