Renault India unveils Duster Easy R AMT at Auto Expo

Renault India today showcased the facelifted Duster along with an all new AMT version of the SUV at the 2016 Auto Expo in Delhi. Badged the Easy-R, the six speed automated manual transmission will also debut on the entry level hatchback Kwid.

The changes in the facelifted Renault Duster include a new twin slat chrome grille and new headlamps along with LED tail lights.

Speaking with Autocar Professional on the sidelines of the unveil, Sumit Sawhney, MD and CEO,  Renault India disclosed that the AMT transmission will only be offered in the diesel version of the Duster. AMTs have been well received in the country since it offers the convenience of an automatic while offering the fuel efficiency of a manual.

Sawhney also confirmed that the new Duster would be available in the Indian market in the first quarter itself.

Renault would also launch an all-wheel drive variant if the new Duster.

Renault says that the new Duster has an evolved "T4 Electrical & Electronics" and new "CM010"engine compartment which is said to improve the safety quotient. The other new features include auto AC, cruise control and an updated media navigation system.

Speaking about the company's recent ramp up of the dealer network in India,  Sawhney revealed that Renault India  now has 205 dealerships in the country, which will cross 240 outlets by the end of 2016.

Service network expansion is the top priority for Renault India along with ramping up production in India, Sawhney said.

Given the strong demand for the Kwid customers have seen long waiting periods of six months and above on the car and according to Sawhney, Renault India is in process of increasing the production of the car to shorten the queues.

"We are currently making 6,000 units of the Kwid which will be ramped up to 8,000 this month and to 10,000 units in the month after. We are looking to bring down the waiting period to less than 2 months on the car, " summed up Sawhney.