Second-gen Renault Duster to feature 7 seats, late-2016 launch - Report

Expected to grow in length. 

Introduced in 2010, the Dacia Duster (sold in markets like India as the Renault Duster) is set to move on to its next generation version come 2016. France's Caradisiac has a few interesting details about the second generation Duster expected by the end of 2016.

The publication says that the Duster is of huge importance to the brand as it is the best selling model for the company. Hence, the design of the new Duster will be taken very seriously and inspiration is said to come from concept cars that have received good response from public and media, one such example being the Oroch concept showcased at the Sao Paulo Motor Show last year.

In a bid to increase its practicality, engineers will extend the length of the crossover to accommodate two additional seats at the rear. It is to be noted that a small bench (capable of seating a kid) is already sold as an accessory on the Duster and Terrano in India.

The new Duster's length is expected to inch towards 4.5 meters where the current model measures 4.31 meters. The report doesn't talk about the platform that will be used, but given Dacia's history, expect a Renault model to be used as a base.

Engineers will be targeting a lighter weight, which coupled with modern petrol and diesel engines, should help the Duster through EU6 emission norms.

Also read: Renault Djeyo compact SUV to be unveiled on February 2

Meanwhile in India, Renault is expected to launch the refreshed Duster this year.

Competitors: Ford EcoSport, Hyundai ix25, Nissan Terrano, Mahindra Scorpio
Expected Price: INR 8-12 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date: End-2016 in Europe

[Source - Caradisiac]