Renault India Boosts Duster Production

Updated: Tuesday, July 31, 2012, 13:07 [IST]

The Renault Duster's launch in India could not have happened at a better time for the French carmaker. The Duster has emerged as its best car since it began operations early last year. The Duster entry level SUV has not only performed well beyond expectations in terms of price but is also garnering increasing sales.

The Duster;s bookings in India have crossed 10,000 units within weeks of its launch. The French carmaker which is building the Duster in its Chennai plant for both domestic sales and export has decided to increase production to meet local demand. Renault India is keen to keep the waiting period of the Duster low as some of the Duster's competitors apart from the Mahindra XUV 500 are available of the shelf.

The Duster carries a simple yet efficient design. Renault India has managed to keep the Duster's price in India highly attractive by having the base petrol variant's price at Rs.7.19 lakhs and base diesel variant's price at Rs.7.99 lakhs. The Duster comes with a choice of several trim levels in eight variants providing buyers an opportunity to have a unique experience.

The Duster's low price is one of the reasons why Renault India has received so many bookings. But Renault India could increase the Duster's price later as it had said the prices were only introductory. It remains to be seen if the Duster will remain attractive once Renault increases its prices.

But, before Renault increases the Duster's price it will definitely attract more buyers. And this is the reason why the French carmaker has decided to boost production. The Duster has several positive features such as high ground clearance, good handling and ride quality, and the choice of both petrol and diesel engines.

The Duster is essentially a five seater and its compact size means its ideal for city roads too. Its diesel engine is frugal and delivers a sedan like mileage. Renault dealers are offering rear jump seats as accessories that will increase the Duster's seating capacity to seven.

Expect to see more Renault Dusters on India roads in the coming weeks as Renault accelerates production and deliveries.