Finally, the wait is over. Renault has confirmed that in the next couple of months, you could actually walk into their showrooms and write off that cheque for a Duster 4x4. It’s called the Duster AWD and in essence, that’s what it is – an all-wheel drive version of the regular Duster that can send power to all four wheels when the situation demands. Is it worth the wait? Oh yes it is. In fact, this is the best thing that could have happened to the compact SUV, apart from an auto variant, which the company is tight lipped about. So for now, it’s only the new Duster AWD that will go on sale at the onset of the festive season and we were the lucky ones to try out the tools that make this Duster stop at nothing. First up, the AWD. Unlike thetraditional 4x4 mechanism, there isn’t an option of engaging the 6-speed gearbox into low-range, instead, you get an electronically controlled AWD system that could be engaged on-the-fly with the help of a knob. You could slot it inpermanent 2WD mode for your regular urban commute where it works like an ordinary front-wheel driven Duster, or switch to Lock mode, wherein the torque is equally distributed to all four wheels for better traction on tricky situations. This mode can be accessed till the speed of 60kph, after which it automatically switches to Auto mode. Renault has full faith in its AWD system and suggests we switch to Auto when venturing out in the wild as the electronics, when left alone, can do a better job on its own.
The magic numbers
4cyl, 1461cc, turbo-diesel, 108.6bhp, 248Nm, 6M, AWD, ground clearance: 210mm, boot space: 475 litres, Overall kpl: 19.72 (claimed), RxL: Rs 13.3 lakh, RxZ: Rs 14.5 lakh (est. on-road, Mumbai)
The verdict New
off-road tools add to the Duster’s overall character. The AWD mechanism works well in most situations and allows you to have some fun out in the wild. However, don’t get too carried away, it’s not going to win you those hardcore challenges off the tarmac.
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