While earlier reports suggested that the production of Renault Duster 85 PS diesel was stopped, it has now been confirmed that this is just a temporary measure being undertaken by the company. Renault has seen increased demand for all variants of the Duster which was regaled for its durability and fuel efficiency.
The increased demand for the Duster AMT and petrol variants accounts for 70% of overall Duster sales along with the new RX petrol variant recently launched. The company has announced that considering this increased demand, production of these models will find precedence over the Duster 85 PS diesel for which the company is also facing shortage of spare parts.
Production of the Renault Duster 85 PS diesel was stopped two months ago due to limited supply of spares. Renault cites disruption in supply chain as the main reason for halting production while the company has also stopped accepting new bookings and is instead clearing backlogs of orders. The Duster 85 PS diesel is still listed on the company’s official site along with prices.
Renault Duster compact SUV was launched in 2012. It immediately became a game changer for the French automaker as the Duster was well received due to its efficiency, performance and engine refinement.
With Renault Duster 85 PS diesel no longer in production, the Duster is presented in two engine options of a 1.5 liter petrol offering 106 PS power and 142 Nm torque mated to a 5 speed manual transmission or CVT and a 1.5 liter diesel engine producing 110 PS power and 245 Nm torque mated to a 6 speed manual or 6 speed AMT. Renault India also recently revised prices of the Duster SUV which is now priced between Rs 7.99-12.79 lakhs.
The Renault Duster competes with the Hyundai Creta, which has noted outstanding sales; while sales of the Duster have been diminishing. And with the new Tata Harrier 5 seater and Nissan Kicks on its way, there probably is going to be more difficult time ahead for Duster in India.
