Yes, it is in the same market such as Nissan, although it is available in 1.6 petrol and 1.5 turbo diesel.
Rough and ready is how one could describe the Duster. True, it eats dust not petrol. What a catchy advertising line.
Built to compete principally on price, the Duster offers surprising levels of refinement, comfort and on road ability.
I’ve been driving the diesel from one province to another and the diesel takes some getting used to. It’s like taking an overweight dog for a walk – it’s not very enthusiastic. You have to adapt your driving style completely.
It’s not that there is a shortage of power, with 80kW and 240Nm, it certainly feels like there’s enough oomph, but it’s available for such a short time in the rev range, that you really have to work the gearbox to make the best of the engine.
I would imagine that the alternative petrol version is better if you drive mostly urban routes, with lots of stop-starting. For longer trips, the diesel actually has a chance of paying itself off, with very decent consumption indeed.
It is very light on diesel as it claims 5.5 litres/100km, which you should get quite close to, especially if you take longer trips, like we did…
The engine comes at 1.5 dCi turbo diesel, 80kW power and torque of 240Nm at 1750rpm (4×4 model).
But, if you need a 4×4 with space for 5- you could save nearly R400 000 and buy this.
The Duster is very good value for money, check its fuel capacity which stands at 50 litres.
Retailing Price: R239 900
Verdict:
1-10: Performance: 6
1-10: Diesel: 8
