India-bound Dacia Bigster (7-str Renault Duster) Makes Debut – Mahindra XUV700 Rival

We have already reported about the plans of the new Renault Duster to arrive in India in the coming years

The 7-seat iteration of the Renault Duster, called the Dacia Bigster in the international market, has finally been revealed. Remember, the new Duster was already showcased a few months ago. Hence, we know that the new Duster is planned to be launched in India within the next couple of years. Note that Duster was the SUV which led to the creation of the mid-size SUV segment in India over a decade ago. With the increasing competition, it is no longer on sale in our market. Once that comes to our shores in its new avatar, the 7-seater version will most likely follow soon after. Let us take a look at the details of the upcoming Mahindra XUV700 rival.

7-seat Renault Duster (Dacia Bigster) Revealed

The front fascia takes inspiration from the regular Duster. It includes a sleek fascia with plenty of illuminated elements including the DC logo. The sleek LEDs adorn the grille section and culminate inside the headlamp cluster as LED DRLs with a Y-shaped insignia. The lower section of the bumper contains a rugged skid plate. On the sides, the squarish wheel arches with black claddings encapsulate the dual-tone elegant alloy wheels rather well. There are functional roof rails and side body cladding. At the rear, the Y-shaped LED taillamp elements are evident along with a distinct roof-mounted spoiler. I particularly like the lower section with a sturdy bumper. The extended length becomes clear when viewing from the side.

On the inside, the cabin looks modern and functional. The three-spoke steering wheel contains multimedia control and the 10-inch digital driver’s instrument cluster and 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment screen look large. Apart from that, the door panels are chunky and the AC vents are solid. In fact, the entire central console is inclined towards the driver which looks sporty. Other prominent amenities include:

• 6-speaker Arkamys Sound System
• Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
• Electrically Adjustable Driver’s Seat with Lumbar Support
• Panoramic Sunroof
• Cooled Storage Compartment
• USB Charging Ports
• Rear AC Vents
• Second Row Armrest
• Rear Parking Camera
• ADAS Active Safety Amenities

Specs

For the international markets, there are multiple powertrain options on offer. These include a 4-cylinder strong hybrid petrol engine which makes 157 PS and 170 Nm, a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system which generates 142 PS and 230 Nm and a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid system with 4×4 drivetrain making 132 PS and 230 Nm of peak power and torque, respectively. At present, the car marque has announced a sole 6-speed manual transmission option with the latter two. Note that the new Duster even comes with an LPG mill. It would be interesting to see which powertrain makes it to the Indian-spec version.

Also Read: Watch India-Bound New Renault Duster Driving on Two Wheels