I called the Renault SA representative who delivered the car: "I think the fuel gauge is broken. It refuses to move from full." He laughed and said good luck depleting the tank - it's just that frugal.
The car in question is the 2022 Renault Duster, particularly the 1.5dCi Intens. It's powered by a 1461cc in-line four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine. Most OEMs have turned their backs on diesel, as they embrace 48V mild-hybrid systems and plug-in electric solutions to squeeze more miles from a drop of fuel - but not Renault, not in SA at least.
The Duster range, in fact, is only available with an oil-burner diesel engine - this engine - which produces 80kW and 250Nm. Our test car, the range-topping Intens, pairs this powerplant with a six-speed double-clutch automatic gearbox that you can control manually through the gear lever. Surprisingly, motivation is sent to the front wheels with minimal torque steer compared to its predecessor.
In fact, the latest Duster feels more compliant on all fronts compared to the older, boxier models. There are one or two quirks, but I can't remember the last time I drove a car that used so little fuel.
One of the first tests I like to perform with media vehicles is a fuel efficiency drive on the highway. I travel 100km on a loop around Johannesburg in each car we assess. In most cars these days, you get decent fuel consumption, but we achieved phenomenally low figures in the Duster.
The vehicle used 3.0 litres per 100km on the highway run; granted, I was alone in the car without luggage or anything weighing it down. According to Renault, this car should use 4.8 litres per 100km in a combined cycle. We achieved 4.5 litres per 100km at the end of our seven-day stint.
READ: REVIEW | As electricity takes over, we think you'd regret not buying the new Polo GTI
It refused to drink diesel on the highway and around the suburbs to school and back and for those odd trips to the supermarket. I was impressed that the engine was so light on juice. Sure, it's turbo-laggy at times from really low revs, as it's tuned for economy. Still, you get used to its power and torque character very quickly, and you'll be able to anticipate when to climb on the throttle for safe overtaking in a jiffy.
So, the fuel gauge wasn't broken or stuck in the full position. It didn't move from full despite the miles we put on it in a week. You could easily get away with filling this vehicle up once a month or less, depending on your commute, and it's compelling at a time when fuel costs as much as it does.
Priced as it should be
Priced at R389 900, the Renault Duster 1.5dCi Intens is not cheap, but it's competitively priced. A Ford EcoSport 1.0T Trend will cost you around R358 700 in this segment, but it's down on spec, its guzzles petrol, and it's long in the tooth as lovely as it is to drive. A similarly appointed Haval Jolion 1.5T Premium might attract you at R357 900 or a Chery Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5T Elite at around R359 900. We can't vouch for the Chinese models yet as they are relatively new, and we haven't been exposed to them much. If you bought a compact crossover or SUV in this segment or at this price point, let us know what you chose and why.
READ: Hyundai i20 N-Line might be expensive, but it's one heck of a nice car to drive
As far as the Duster Intens model goes, you'll be pleased with its overall styling and premium touches, such as the contrasting painted sections on the exterior compared to its lesser siblings. It also boasts rugged, eye-catching 17-inch wheels with chunky rubber (215/60 R17) that won't explode at the sight of a pothole.
Expect sure-footed handling, light steering, easy to modulate brakes and smooth shifts from the dual-clutch autobox. The car scrabbles for grip on slippery surfaces, but the built-in anti-skid systems all work well to keep you straight and narrow. Anti-lock brakes, four airbags, climate control, and a glorious Apple CarPlay compatible audio system also contribute to a beautiful package. You get the usual electric windows and mirrors and a keyless entry and go system. There are loads of premium car features here, so it's best to ask for a thorough walkthrough of the model when tyre-kicking.
Is it worth buying then?
Absolutely. If you want a fuel-saver with space for five people and a decent luggage compartment (550 litres), you have to consider this car. It comes with a lovely warranty - five years or 150 000km - and you even get a three-year or 45 000km Service Plan as standard.
With a decent ground clearance of 210mm, you can enjoy a few gravel roads away from the beaten track but be warned that it's best suited to light off-road driving without the 4x4 system that you'll find in the slightly less expensive Zen 4WD model that's priced at R381 900.
READ: REVIEW | Cayenne Turbo GT is more hyper car than SUV, and it's scintillating at full tilt
Renault could make the car a little nicer by lining the wheels wells with insulation for less road noise, but other than that, it's challenging to fault an excellent package. It's easy to drive and easy to park, the ISOFIX points make it a cinch to move child seats in and out, and you just get this general sense of compliancy in the car.
The Renault Duster might be the ideal choice for you if you're thinking of buying your first SUV style vehicle, as we anticipate that you'll enjoy its high-riding driver's position that gives you a confident view of the road. Compared to hatchbacks and sedans that you might be used to driving, this car is a hidden gem, and you ought to explore it before moving on up.
I felt like quite a klutz thinking that Renault SA would supply a test vehicle with a broken fuel gauge, but it's fantastic to experience diesel technology that still gives you a smooth drive while sipping as little fuel as possible. Please, test drive one and let us know if you think it's a good deal in this highly competitive segment.
KEEP UP TO DATE with the latest motoring news by subscribing to our FREE newsletter, 'LET'S DRIVE'.
Sign up for your bi-weekly newsletter and get all the latest and exciting motoring news.