The third-generation Renault Duster recently underwent Euro NCAP’s rigorous crash tests, and the results are in. The popular SUV achieved a 3-star safety rating, with notable performance in various categories.
Safety Ratings Breakdown:
- Adult Occupant Protection (AOP): The Duster scored 70 percent in adult occupant protection. The passenger compartment remained stable during the frontal offset test, providing good protection for knees and femurs. However, chest protection for the driver was rated as weak.
- Child Occupancy (COP): The Duster received an 84 percent rating for child occupancy. It provided excellent protection for both 6-year-old and 10-year-old child dummies in frontal offset and side barrier impacts.
- Safety Assist Systems: The Duster scored 57 percent in this category. While the autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system performed adequately, the rear seatbelt reminder lacked an occupant detection system, resulting in no points awarded.
- Vulnerable Road Users (VRU): The Duster received 60 percent for VRU protection.
Euro-Spec vs. India-Spec:
The tested model was a left-hand drive version with a 1.6-liter petrol-hybrid powertrain, equipped with six airbags, seatbelt reminders, and ADAS features. However, it’s essential to note that the Euro NCAP safety rating for this Euro-spec Duster won’t apply to the India-spec model, which will be locally manufactured and badged as a Renault.
Powering the Renault Duster in the international market is a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. In addition to this, the SUV comes with a 1.2-litre mild-hybrid three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. And the top-of-the-line 1.6-litre four-cylinder E-Tech strong hybrid engine. Renault has not confirmed which engine the brand is likely to introduce, if the Duster arrives in the Indian market.
The India-bound Duster is expected to launch in 2025, and its safety features may differ from the Euro-spec version. Nonetheless, the 3-star rating highlights the Duster’s overall safety performance.
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