The Renault Duster’s back, and it’s a breath of fresh air in South Africa’s crowded SUV scene. Launched in March 2025, this third-generation model swaps the old diesel grunt for petrol power, wraps it in a rugged new look, and packs enough tech to keep you connected from Joburg to the Wild Coast. It’s not here to play dress-up—it’s built for the real stuff: dodging potholes, hauling gear, and looking sharp while doing it. Here’s the rundown on its price, specs, and what makes it tick.
A Bold New Face
Renault’s given the Duster a proper glow-up. Built on the CMF-B platform, it’s wider and taller than before—4.34m long, 1.81m wide, with a ground clearance of 217mm on the 4WD version. That’s enough to tackle a rutted dirt road or a flooded KZN street. The front grille’s chunky, the Y-shaped LED lights scream modern, and the rear door handles tucked into the C-pillars give it a sleek edge. Roof bars (modular on the 4WD) handle up to 70kg—perfect for a braai setup or a surfboard.
Power That Packs a Punch
Forget the old 1.5 dCi diesel—the 2025 Duster’s gone petrol. You’ve got two engines: a 1.3L turbo (113 kW, 250 Nm) with a 7-speed dual-clutch auto for the 4×2 models, and a 1.2L turbo mild-hybrid (96 kW, 230 Nm) with a 6-speed manual for the 4WD. Fuel economy’s solid—6.5L/100km for the 1.3L, slightly better for the hybrid. The 4WD adds five terrain modes (Eco, Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-Road) and a 1,500kg towing capacity. It’s not a Land Cruiser, but it’ll haul your trailer to the bushveld without breaking a sweat.
Inside the Cabin
Step inside, and the Duster’s all business with a modern twist. A 10.1-inch touchscreen runs Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a 7-inch digital dash keeps you in the loop. Base Zen models get cloth seats, rear sensors, and a reverse camera; the Intens steps up with synthetic leather, a 360-degree camera, and keyless entry. Safety’s covered—six airbags, ABS, stability control, and ISOfix anchors across the range. It’s comfy enough for a family road trip, practical enough for a daily grind.
Price Tag and Variants
Here’s where it gets real—pricing starts at R489,999 and tops out at R549,999. The lineup:
- Duster 1.3 TCe 150 Zen EDC 4×2: R489,999 – 17-inch alloys, cruise control, auto lights.
- Duster 1.3 TCe 150 Intens EDC 4×2: R519,999 – 18-inch wheels, climate control, paddle shifters.
- Duster 1.2 TCe 130 MHEV Zen 4WD: R549,999 – hybrid power, 4WD modes, wireless charging.
Compared to the old diesel range (R397,999–R465,999), the entry point’s up by R92,000, but you’re getting more tech and a sharper look. Against rivals like the Suzuki Grand Vitara (R465,000+) or Hyundai Creta (R485,000+), it’s a strong contender—especially with seven colors to pick from (Glacier White’s standard; metallics like Cedar Green add R2,500).
The DriveZA Take
The 2025 Duster isn’t chasing the fancy SUV crowd—it’s for South Africans who want a car that works as hard as they do. It’s rugged enough for a Drakensberg detour, slick enough for Sandton streets, and priced to leave cash for petrol and a Castle Lager. Renault’s ditched the diesel nostalgia for a petrol-powered future, and honestly? It feels right. Hit the showroom this March—your next adventure’s waiting.
