The most popular car among Indian car lovers is going to say goodbye at the end of this year according to the media reports. The French carmaker is planning to discontinue the current-gen Duster SUV in the Indian vehicle market as the manufacturer wishes to reduce the cost and increase its charm again in the market. This mid-size SUV made its blockbuster entry in the Indian market in 2012 and later in 2013, it was also named the 'Car of the Year'.
However, the new launches in its segment and competitors getting new updates, contribute to decrease its craze among Indians. The SUV has undergone many facelifts over the years, including feature updates and the introduction of the segment's most powerful turbo-petrol engine in the effect of BS6 norms. But still, none of these was successful in reviving Duster sales.
It is also being reported that the company aspires to launch the new-gen version of this car, however, no official information is available regarding the release date. Renault India's Managing Director, Venkataram Mamillapalle, has stated that there may be a little pause, but he has assured that the Duster would return.
The Renault Duster was the first SUV to boost sales of compact SUVs in India. The current version of this SUV is available with a 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine. The makers have made a lot of efforts to increase the profits but unfortunately, they did not get successful. Other models, such as the Kwid and Triber are doing well for Renault, in contrast to the ageing Duster.
Hence, at present, the company is focusing only on promoting and selling its latest car, the Renault Kiger. The brand notified its component suppliers that the last batch of the Duster will roll off the production line in October at its alliance facility with Nissan near Chennai. We hope the audience will not have to wait long for the updated model.