A lot of cars under different segments are available in the Indian car market at present. Although Indian consumers still favour buying hatchbacks, the trend is fast changing since the introduction of new vehicles across different segments. Currently, one segment that is leading the charge for passenger cars in India is the compact Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs). The cars in this segment have garnered attention of buyers and the one in particular is Renault Duster. The compact SUV has contributed a lot in reviving the fortunes of Renault in India. Apart from India, the car is faring nicely in other international markets and has carved a niche for itself. To access reasons for such a good show from Renault Duster in India are attributed below.
Power Packed Engine: Renault Duster has been admired by industry critics for its power packed engine that certainly packs a punch. The car is available in two different engine options having different specifications altogether. In case of petrol variant, the 1.6-litre K4M engine gives away 102 bhp of power and 145 Nm of torque. While the 1.5 DCi K9K unit is offered in differently tuned options of 83 bhp and 108 bhp having torque figures of 200 Nm and 248 Nm, respectively.
Fuel Efficiency: Indian consumers mainly prefer buying vehicles that are good on average and Renault certainly has kept that in mind while developing Duster. The compact SUV of the company shows good mileage statistics with the standard diesel variant giving 20.45 kmpl while in case of 108 bhp trim, it stands marginally less at 19.01 kmpl. Also to mention, the petrol powertrain of Duster has an ability to give 13.24 kmpl. It must be noted that the above mentioned figures are claimed by the company officials.
Appearance: The looks of Renault Duster have significantly contributed to the kind of success that the model has shared in India. Duster is provided with a boxy kind of look that gives a sense of masculinity to the car. Talking the exterior dimensions into concern, Duster has been given the conventional design of a SUV, which makes it worthy of a stare.
Features: Under the comfort and convenience department, Duster is provided with all essential features that are needed in a utility vehicle. The car has got rear air conditioning vents, 8-way adjustable driver seat, steering mounted audio controls, adjustable steering wheel and much more.
Pricing: Pricing has remained as one of the most important factors in charting the success story of Duster in India. The company has followed the aggressive pricing strategy for its compact SUV in order to lure buyers and so far it has worked quite well for the company. At present, the ex-showroom price of Duster in New Delhi is Rs. 7.99 lakh for the introductory variant while for top end version, it is Rs. 12.18 lakh.
Early mover advantage: Since Renault was the first major company to launch its vehicle in the compact SUV segment, it has enjoyed a first mover advantage. Renault Duster has derived a huge benefit from the void that earlier existed in terms of competition for the car in compact SUV segment. The company had banked on first mover advantage owing to which the sales of Duster took a huge leap.
Favourable government policies: Also to mention, the relaxation of policies regarding the length of compact cars in India has helped the fortunes of Renault Duster. The aggressive pricing of this car has been mainly due to the reason that the government amened the rules regarding the length of SUV to 4.3 metre, which allowed Renault to escape from the additional tax burden entitled on the production of SUVs.
Driveability of utility vehicle and comfort of sedan: The car checkmarks on the list of needs that one seeks in a utility vehicle and sedan. In terms of power, it has got all the characteristics of a utility vehicle. Also to mention the comfort and convenience that one gets in a sedan can be felt in Duster as well. So, this car serves both the purposes of utility vehicle and sedan, pretty well.
Sound market presence: Since its inception in the Indian car market, Duster has performed well and has developed a sound market presence for itself. On considering the fact that in first 6 days, the model registered 6000 bookings, itself speaks for the kind of value that the car carries with itself.
Safety equipment: In terms of providing safety and security features, Renault has adequately provided all the features. The car comes equipped with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) having Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) with brake assist feature to offer increased safety for the passengers. In addition, the car has dual airbags besides the safe design body structure.
![Renault Duster [2020-2022]](https://imgd-ct.aeplcdn.com/160x89/n/cw/ec/47028/duster-exterior-right-front-three-quarter-4.jpeg?q=80 "Renault Duster [2020-2022]")
