French auto giant, Renault is readying to launch 4X4 variant of its poplar compact SUV, Duster in India. Buzz has it that the 4X4 variant of Duster will see light of the day during festive season. It has been learnt from close sources that the 4X4 variant of Duster will be called ‘Duster AWD’. Auto pundits opine that September is when Renault has planned to unleash the AWD variant of Duster in domestic market. Ahead of its launch next month, the auto giant will hold a preview of the AWD trim for Duster owners members of ‘Gang of Dusters’ club this week.
Renault will position AWD variant of Duster at the top of the range and it is being speculated that it might get a price bump of Rs 1 lakh as compared to the current high end version. Under the hood will be a 1.5 litre, four cylinder, K9K diesel powertrain that outputs a top power of 110 PS along with a peak torque of 248Nm. A six-speed manual gearbox will work in synchronization with 1.5 litre mill. Among the feature list to be bestowed upon AWD variant a 4WD system, preeminent safety features such as Anti-Lock-braking system with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, dual airbags, integrated music system, alloy wheels, electrically adjustable wing mirrors and a rear wiper with washer is included.
Other SUVs that are already available in 4X4 version in domestic market include Scorpio and Safari Strome hence, Duster could face competition from these vehicles.
![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]")
