Renault Duster AWD - Let's hit some Dirt
We Indians are always game for a good deal. From everyday purchases like the biscuits that we dip into our Chai every day to something as luxurious as a home, getting maximum bang for the buck is a given. The ‘Duster’ by Renault is a prime example of our value-loving ethos. Spacious & well-equipped, with powerful engines & good driving dynamics, this modern day SUV has quickly become the darling of car buyers across the country. Offered in 2WD guise since it was launched a couple of years ago, the clamour for an All-Wheel Drive variant had been growing with each passing day.
Team DusterAWD with JayK, Ekta, Mr. Khaitan & Yours Truly
This Independence Day, Renault in conjunction with BlogAdda offered me the privilege of experiencing the excitement in the form of the all-new Duster AWD & I grabbed the opportunity with glee. Pairing up with team members, JayK, Ekta and Mr. Khaitan, we took off from Courtyard Marriot in a convoy of 7 Dusters on the 80 Kilometre long Off-Roading trail to picturesque Lavasa.For someone who owns a Santro, Initially the clutch does feel on the higher side but his power-packed AWD is a delight to drive on and definitely commands respect on the Roads.
First Impressions:
Sitting purposeful with high all-round visibility, the all-new Renault Duster AWD
Sitting high off the ground, the refreshed Duster looked quite purposeful in its AWD avatar. Its roomy interiors meant that we had plenty of space & were seated rather comfortably. For someone who takes the Santro on the daily commute, the DusterAWD, with its power-packed motor & light clutch is a delight to drive. Its high perch offers a commanding view of the road below & one is well aware of their surroundings at all times.
Tech-Attack:
The AWD system called i-Drive Technology is quite sophisticated in its approach to 4 Wheel Drive motoring & features full electronic controls on-board. The AWD selector knob offers 3 selectable driving modes. The most convenient of this is the Auto Mode where, the system monitors traction at the front wheels & automatically sends power to the rear wheels as the conditions dictate. It would be quite the boon when driving through changing terrain. On the other hand, there is the 2 Wheel Drive mode that exclusively sends power to the front wheels & the de-facto mode to use when commuting within the city. Then there is the Lock Mode that distributes power to all four wheels, up-to 60 KPH (it switches to Auto Mode once the speedo needle crosses the 60 KPH mark)
Driving Experience:Â
Makes you feel at home, even when you're out there, making your own road!
Powered by the 1.5 L turbo motor with 110 PS on tap & coupled with the high ground clearance, the Duster AWD was a hoot to drive when drifting, splashing mud & indulging in water bed crossings. We even indulged in tough climbs without ever breaking into a sweat. From wading through water to pottering about on slush filled trails & grassy patches, the Duster AWD maintained a steady grip across the varying ground conditions.
Sum-Up:
Always in control, no matter what the driving conditions
The Duster was always a capable vehicle & a popular one with the masses. Now, with added All-Wheel Drive capabilities, the Duster has transformed into a formidable package. This is one car that would be equally at ease on the office commute during the week & indulge in some basic mud-plugging over the weekend.
Loads of fun at every twist & turn
P.S. On a personal note, if all test drives were as exhilarating as the Lavasa Off-Roading trail, more 4×4′s would be sold for sure!
Technical Specifications: Engine Fuel Diesel Installation Front, transverse Type 4 cyls, 1461cc, turbo-diesel Power 108.5bhp at 3900rpm Torque 25.3kgm at 2250rpm Transmission Type All-wheel drive Gearbox 6-speed manual Dimensions Length 4315 mm Width 1822 mm Height 1695 mm Wheel base 2673 mm Boot volume 475 litres Ground clearance 205 mm Suspension Front McPherson struts with coil springs and stabilizer bar Rear Multilink with coil springs Brakes Front Ventilated discs Rear Drums Anti-lock Yes
 The Story in Pics on Google+
Trip: #Dusterallwheeldrive Drive to Lavasa, courtesy Blogadda and Renault