ರೆನಾಲ್ಟ್ ಡಸ್ಟರ್ 2016-2019 ಪೆಟ್ರೋಲ್ RXS CVT

Extending its SUV range, Renault launched the petrol Duster in the CVT option along with a new engine. Touted as the Hyundai Creta automatic rival, this automatic variant gets an Xtronic CVT borrowed from Nissan, its global partner. The Renault Duster Petrol RXS CVT was launched at Rs 10.32 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi as of May 02, 2017).

Compared to the earlier 1.6-litre petrol engine, in the new 1.5-litre motor, although the capacity has gone down, the power and torque figures have gone up by 2PS and 6Nm respectively. The mileage figures of the Duster automatic have also bumped up by 0.8kmpl, to 14.99kmpl, over its manual counterpart.

Based on the RXS variant, it gets all the features of the RXS trim, which include firefly fog lamps, waterfall LED tail lamps, gunmetal finish alloy wheels, carbon cubic-printed ORVMs, body-coloured outside door handles, turn indicators on ORVMs and new side and tailgate decals.

The interior also features the same options as its manual version, comprising of on-board trip computer with multi-information display, power windows with illuminated switches, touchscreen infotainment system supporting Bluetooth, USB and AUX-in (no navigation though), versatile rear parcel shelf, rear seat armrest with cupholders, Eco-mode and electrically adjustable outside rear view mirrors.

Being second to the top-end version, there are enough protective gadgets as well in this trim. It gets ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Breakforce Distribution) and Brake Assist, rapid deceleration warning, driver and passenger side airbags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), speed sensitive door lock and hill-start assist among others.

The Duster automatic lock horns with the automatic trims of the Hyundai Creta, Ford EcoSport and Nissan Terrano.