Renault has put its own badge onto the Duster SUV (made by its Dacia subsidiary) for the Indian market and the consequent production of right-hand drive versions opens the door to a possible South African introduction.
However, Renault South Africa's PR officer could not provide a definitive answer when asked that question: “We've got no confirmation of Duster for the SA market yet.” Certainly more promising than a “no.”
Sharing a platform with the Renault/Dacia Logan and Sandero line-up (and SA's Nissan NP200), the Duster is an affordable softroader. Yet unlike the Sandero Stepway that we get here, this one has unique (and tougher) styling, a higher stance and there's even a 4x4 version available for those prepared to fork out a bit more.
With a strengthened undercarriage, 210mm of ground clearance, short overhangs and decent approach and departure angles, the Duster models were clearly designed to be more than just pavement posers.
The three overseas engine choices comprise a 77kW 1.6-litre 16V petrol and two dCi turbodiesels offering either 63kW or 80kW.
The Duster is also available with a decent spread of comfort and safety kit, although its three-star EuroNCAP rating falls short of completely reassuring (albeit it did get 74% for frontal impact and was let down by pedestrian protection).
Would you like to see the Duster come to South Africa? Sign the (hugely unofficial) petition by commenting below.