Renault Duster launched, how does it fare against competition?

Renault has launched the Duster at a jaw breaking price of Rs 7.19lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) for the petrol version, while the diesel range starts at Rs 7.99lakh. Now, the range topper Duster diesel comes for Rs 11.29lakh— which isn’t a very rationale affair. The oil burner will be the pick of the lot, as not many will inclined to buy the petrol version.

Renault India has huge plans with its this compact SUV as it will not just manufacture the cars for the Indian market, but also export it to other right-hand drive markets like the United Kingdom . Nissan will also re-badge the Duster and introduce it in its portfolio . So, let us see preview of how we think the Duster fare will against its competition.

Renault Duster v/s Mahindra Scoprio

Now the Scorpio is almost a decade old design and is built on a ladder-on-frame design, which makes old-school. The Duster on the other hand is a monocoque, based on the Logan platform. The Scorpio can seat seven, of which the second and the third row are a bit tight on legroom. Though the Duster can seat five, there is sufficient space for all. The Duster is also compact in length and has better power-to-weight ratio. The Scorpio scores a point as it has an option to pick an automatic transmission, which goes missing on the Renault Duster. Our sources confirm that Mahindra is working on an all-new Scorpio, which will be launched in the next two years.

Renault Duster v/s Tata Safari Storme

The Tata Safari Storme might look similar to the old Safari, but there has been a massive change in its underpinnings. It now springs on the new X2 platform(on which the Aria is also based)that has a hydroform chassis. This not only makes the car light but also improves its driving characteristics. The Storme is likely to be a good competitor to the Duster, however it is the same old exterior styling which could work against the likes of Tata Motors. There are acres of space in the Safari Storme, but the Duster being a fresh face will help it attract a larger audience. The Safari Storme will be launched by the end of July or start of August.

Renault Duster v/s Ford Ecosport

The EcoSport will be the true competition for the Duster. The EcoSport is also a compact SUV which will be powered by the award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine and the 1.4-litre TDCi engine. Both can seat five people and are likely to have good driving dynamics and performance. We will have to wait for the launch of the EcoSport, which is scheduled sometime early next year. The EcoSport’s pricing will be between Rs 6.5-10lakhs, which is again the Renault Duster territory. Renault has an advantage over the EcoSport and the company has already done its task by pricing it right. Now, it all depends on how the Indian audience responds to the Duster.

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