The All-New Renault Duster is Here

After a two-year absence from the South African market, the mighty Renault Duster is back – and better than ever. Since its launch in 2013, the compact SUV has been incredibly popular among South Africans who want an affordable combination of off-road ability and performance. Now, the new model aims to build on that success, bringing with it a range of improvements.

Right off the bat, the 2025 Renault Duster is an incredibly good-looking vehicle, keeping the detailed, boxy look of its predecessor while adding futuristic lights and an all-round more refined appearance. But will this off-roader for the people still be as popular with locals? Let’s take a look at all its features to find out.

Refreshed and Redesigned

Renault Duster exterior | Photo: Renault

The third-generation Renault Duster’s exterior is notably more rugged than its predecessors, but the design has been tightened up and accented by Y-shaped headlights and black cladding on all the low-down areas. It’s just 11 mm wider and 2 mm longer than the old model, but somehow, it has a much bigger presence.

Inside, the much-maligned “cheap” interior gets a full makeover. There’s still plastic wherever you look, but it’s all solid and well-fastened, creating a sense of sturdiness that an off-roader like this needs. The biggest improvement is with the seats – they’re now far more plush and well-made.

All models come with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster with customisable themes, as well as a new infotainment system paired with a wireless charging station, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The top-line Intens trim level also boasts an all-round camera system, but beyond that, Renault has kept things quite simple.

Boot space isn’t spectacular, by any means, but it’s certainly a step up from pricier competitors like the two-door Suzuki Jimny. Continuing with the off-roader theme, it also has rubber floor mats, which all real 4×4 enthusiasts know are much easier to clean.

Under the Hood

Renault Duster Interior at the wheel | Photo: Renault

Sadly, the Renault Duster is no longer available with the legendary 1.5 l turbodiesel engine that made it such a hit. Instead, 4×3 models feature a 1.3 l turbopetrol engine – with a choice between automatic and manual – while the 4×4 model has a 1.2 l turbopetrol engine paired with a manual transmission. The larger engine produced 113 kW of power and 250 Nm of torque, while the 4×4 pushes out 96 kW and 230 Nm.

Despite this gap in power output, the 4×4 model is still the highly capable off-roader that made it such a hit in the past. That’s partly because it’s connected to a 48 V middle hybrid electric system that reduces fuel consumption to Renault’s claimed figure of 5.7 l/100km. It’s also thanks to excellent suspension, an off-road drive mode selector, and an extra 7 mm of ground clearance over the 4×2 model.

The old Duster consistently punched above its weight on 4×4 trails, scaling rocky and sandy tracks with surprising ease. The new model promises the same performance with some significant refinements to handling and cabin soundproofing. That means it’ll be fully capable of tackling December holiday camping adventures and self-drive safaris alike.

How Much Does It Cost?

View of left front wheel of Renault Duster | Photo: Renault

Unsurprisingly, the new Renault Duster isn’t as budget-friendly as its predecessors, but buyers won’t mind when they consider the numerous refinements that the French manufacturer has made. The key thing is that the Duster is simply a new version of the same tried-and-trusted formula that made it so popular with South African adventurers.

It’s still rugged enough to get to locations that other compact SUVs would struggle with, but it’s equally at home on city streets. Plus, with a five-year/150,000 km warranty and a three-year/45,000 km service plan, you get plenty of value with your purchase.