Sources close to Renault have confirmed that the Duster will soon get an automatic transmission with its petrol version, which the automaker had a hard time rolling out of showrooms since its launch. The Duster petrol automatic is likely to be launched in a couple of months. The French automaker launched the Duster in 2012 and has been constantly updating the compact SUV with special editions, and introduced its facelifted model last year.
For the first time since 2012, the 2016 Duster facelift saw the introduction of an automatic option with its 110PS 1.5-litre diesel engine. It came with Renault’s Easy-R AMT (automated manual transmission) based on the Duster’s six-speed manual transmission. The 1.6-litre petrol, on the other hand, will get a CVT automatic, which is relatively more refined as opposed to an AMT. As of now, the 1.6-litre petrol is offered with a five-speed manual. We believe that it might be the same transmission that was offered on the petrol version of the discontinued Fluence’s pre-facelift model.
Recommended Read: 2016 Renault Duster AMT – First Drive Review
The Duster’s prime adversary – the Hyundai Creta – offers a six-speed automatic transmission with its 1.6-litre petrol engine and it is rolling out in decent numbers. The Honda BR-V petrol, which is also similarly priced, offers a CVT automatic option with paddle shifters. Offering a petrol automatic option with the Duster may not only boost its slow-selling petrol alternative, but could also widen the appeal of the nameplate in the country. Stay tuned to CarDekho for the official announced from Renault.
Source: CarDekho.com
