Drive review: New (2019) Renault Duster 4×4 brings more capability

After spending time with the new Renault Duster 4×2 in the Lowveld last year, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that I would also have the opportunity to test the recently launched Renault Duster 4×4. The latest addition to the Duster product range promises an even more adventure-oriented package, thanks to the added capabilities of its 4×4 system. We drove the off-roader around the roads of Gauteng before heading for Harties, where we took it onto some dirt roads and even tackled a dedicated 4×4 obstacle trail.

DESIGN
The design of the Renault Duster 4×4 doesn’t stray far from the styling found on its front-wheel driven sibling. However, there are subtle touches around the car that indicate the 4×4 model, such as the ‘4wd’ badging above the front wheel arch.
The overall design features a more muscular and confident look, with prominent lines chiselling out the Duster’s bold shape. The face of the Duster is consistent with Renault’s modern design philosophy, with cues such as the ‘C’-shaped lights and aggressive front grille. New taillights adorn the rear and the plastic cladding around the bottom of the car hint at its rugged and off-road focused nature. Depending on spec level, you can even have metal-finished roof railings and large 17-inch wheels.
The interior of the Duster is spacious, and the 4×4 model now features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A central touch screen infotainment system relays all important info to the occupants, and a multifunction steering brings this info to the drivers’ fingertips.

PERFORMANCE
The performance of the new Renault Duster 4×4 is the real highlight. Power is supplied exclusively by a 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine, producing 80kW of power and 260Nm of torque. While these figures are modest, they are higher than the performance figures on the equivalent 4×2 model which produces 14kW and 50Nm less. The engine is torquey and packs enough punch to keep the Duster 4×4 moving, whether you’re cruising on the highway or attacking some dirt roads on the path less travelled.
There are also new features that have been unlocked with the four-wheel drive system, such as the new hill descent control function and the drive-mode selector that toggles between front-wheel drive, four-wheel drive and off-road drive modes. The Renault Duster 4×4 will only be available with a six-speed manual gearbox, which will come in handy when navigating off-road obstacles.

BEHIND THE WHEEL
My first impressions of the Renault Duster 4×4 were pleasant, as they were when I drove the 4×2 model. The interior does a good job at keeping everyone comfortable while there is dirt and rocks under the tyres, and now with Apple Car Play and its Android counterpart, the connectivity and access of the model is on par with its newer rivals in 2019.
The diesel engine provides a no-nonsense approach to keeping all four wheels turning, however the cabin did seem slightly noisier than the 4×2 models. That is easily forgiven once you lock it into off-road mode and take it onto the dirt. On-road performance is just as pleasant, with the suspension easing the discomfort of South Africa’s bumpy roads. The hill descent function works very well, and with an approach and departure angle of 30- and 34-degrees respectively, the Duster is perfect for navigating your way up and down small hills.
One of my favourite things about the new Duster is how fuel efficient it is, and the 4×4 is no exception to this. I managed to average a consumption of 5.8-litres/100km on the launch.

VERDICT
The Renault Duster 4×4 provides a lot of car for a great price and goes a step further by being economical and practical, yet sport and adventurous. If you’re looking for a car to reside on paved roads for all of its life, then the 4×2 models will probably be a good choice, but if you enjoy the thrills of muddy paths and rough trails or even just the comfort that comes from the safety of a four-wheel drive car, then the 4×4 is the prime model to have.

PRICING

1.6 Expression 4X2 R255 900

1.5 dCi Dynamique 4×2 R288 900

1.5 dCi Dynamique EDC 4×2 R322 900

1.5 dCi Dynamique 4×4 R327 900

1.5dCi Prestige EDC 4×2 R340 900

Prices include a 3-year/45,000 km service plan and a 5-year/150,000 km warranty.