Farewell Diesel, Hello Efficiency

The departure of the 1.5-litre diesel that defined the Duster for years may disappoint loyal fans, myself included but the new 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology really presents a compelling alternative. Producing 96kW and 230Nm of torque, this compact powerplant is paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system featuring a 0.8kWh battery pack located under the passenger seat.

The mild-hybrid setup, integrated starter-generator, and aluminium construction work together to optimise fuel consumption during energy-intensive driving phases. Renault claims a combined fuel consumption of 5.7 litres per 100km, though real-world testing suggests figures closer to 7.0 litres per 100km—still respectable for a 4WD SUV with 217mm of ground clearance.

The six-speed manual transmission delivers power to all four wheels through Renault’s improved 4WD system, which now includes five terrain modes: Eco, Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, and Off-Road. This versatility ensures the Duster remains capable whether navigating Johannesburg traffic or tackling weekend adventures out of town.

Design Evolution: Rugged Meets Refined

Built on Renault’s CMF-B platform, the 2025 Duster measures 4,343mm in length and 1,813mm in width, marginally larger than its predecessor. The height remains unchanged at 1,656mm, but the overall presence feels more substantial thanks to additional body cladding, an underbody skid plate, and Renault’s new design language.

The distinctive Y-shaped LED headlights connect to “RENAULT” branding stretched across the grille, creating a modern front-end treatment that signals the brand’s evolving identity. Rear door handles are cleverly integrated into the C-pillars, while modular roof bars (capable of carrying up to 70kg) reinforce the SUV’s practical credentials.

The test vehicle rode on 17-inch diamond-cut, dual-tone alloy wheels that strike a balance between style and off-road capability. The Duster’s flat-edged body and purposeful stance maintain the rugged character that made previous generations popular, but with smoother lines that acknowledge contemporary design trends.

Interior Transformation: From Utilitarian to Contemporary

Step inside, and the transformation from second-generation Duster becomes immediately apparent. Gone is the austere cabin with hard plastics dominating every surface. While recycled materials still feature prominently, reflecting Renault’s sustainability commitments, the execution is significantly improved.

The dashboard is dominated by a 10.1-inch OpenR multimedia touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. A 7-inch digital instrument cluster sits behind the multifunction steering wheel, replacing the previous analog dials. These screens represent a major leap forward in perceived quality and usability.

Y-shaped air vents complement the exterior lighting signature, while wireless smartphone charging adds modern convenience. The cloth seats in the Zen 4WD variant are comfortable enough for extended journeys, with generous headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers—7mm more headroom than before makes a tangible difference for taller occupants.

Storage solutions are scattered throughout the cabin, addressing the practical needs of families and adventure-seekers. The boot has grown by 30 litres to 444 litres with the rear seats up, expanding to a massive 1,696 litres when the 60/40-split rear bench is folded down. That’s enough capacity for camping gear, braai equipment, or a full Makro run. There’s also a neat full size spare wheel in there.

On the Road: Capable But Not Thrilling

During a week-long test that included urban commuting, highway cruising, and light off-road excursions near the Magaliesberg, the Duster 1.2T MHEV proved itself a competent all-rounder. The turbocharged three-cylinder engine delivers adequate performance for everyday driving, with the 230Nm of torque arriving low in the rev range to aid city manoeuvrability.

The mild-hybrid system provides a subtle but noticeable boost during acceleration, smoothing out the power delivery and reducing turbo lag. However, the six-speed manual gearbox requires commitment. This isn’t an automatic-equipped premium SUV where you can simply point and go. Gear changes demand deliberate inputs, and the clutch pedal travel is longer than some competitors. Only at the fourth and fifth gear do things seem pleasant.

On Gauteng’s highways, the Duster settles into a comfortable cruise, with wind and road noise well-suppressed for this price bracket. The 1.2-litre engine does work hard at higher speeds, with revs climbing noticeably when overtaking slower traffic. A seventh gear would help reduce engine speeds and potentially improve fuel economy on long-distance trips.

The suspension, made up of MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link setup at the rear, handles South Africa’s challenging road surfaces with composure. Potholes are absorbed without harsh impacts, while body roll remains controlled through corners despite the SUV’s 217mm ride height. The steering is light but lacks feedback, prioritising ease of use over engagement.

Technology and Safety Features

Standard equipment on the Zen 4WD includes rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, cruise control, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. These features address core safety and convenience needs without unnecessary complexity.

The 10.1-inch touchscreen responds promptly to inputs, though the interface isn’t as polished as premium competitors. Wireless smartphone connectivity works reliably, keeping devices charged during longer journeys. The digital instrument cluster provides clear information, though customisation options are limited compared to more expensive rivals.

Notable absences include advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring—features increasingly common in this price range. Renault has focused on core functionality rather than the latest tech trends, which aligns with the Duster’s practical positioning but may disappoint buyers seeking cutting-edge safety features.

Value Proposition in a Changing Market

Priced at R549,999, the Duster 1.2T 6MT 4WD MHEV represents a R92,000 increase over the outgoing diesel range’s entry point. However, that comparison overlooks the improved specification, enhanced technology, and modernised design.

Against competitors like the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid (from R494,400), Chery Tiggo 7 Pro (R399,900–R609,900), and Suzuki Grand Vitara (from R465,000), the Duster occupies competitive territory. It’s the only option in this price bracket offering genuine 4WD capability with multiple terrain modes, giving it a unique position in the market.

All Duster models include a comprehensive ownership package: a 5-year/150,000km mechanical warranty and a 3-year/45,000km service plan with intervals of 12 months or 15,000km. This coverage provides peace of mind and helps preserve resale value—an important consideration for buyers who keep vehicles long-term.

This isn’t the most exciting SUV to drive, nor does it offer the latest driver-assistance features. What it does provide is honest capability, genuine practicality, and a level of ruggedness that’s increasingly rare in the crossover-dominated market.

2025 Renault Duster 1.2T 6MT 4WD MHEV Specifications:

Engine: 1.2-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol + 48V MHEV
Power: 96kW (4,500-5,500 rpm)
Torque: 230Nm (2,000 rpm)
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Drivetrain: 4WD with 5 terrain modes
Fuel Consumption: 5.7 L/100km (claimed), 7.0 L/100km (tested)
0-100km/h: 10.5 seconds (tested)
Ground Clearance: 217mm
Approach Angle: 31 degrees
Boot Capacity: 444-1,696 litres
Towing Capacity: 1,500kg
Price: R549,999
Warranty: 5-year/150,000km
Service Plan: 3-year/45,000km

Now, Renault is giving the Triber a comprehensive refresh for 2025, and the updates go well beyond a simple facelift.

Step up to the 2025 Renault Triber, and you’ll immediately notice the redesigned front fascia. Renault has fitted a bold piano black grille that gives the compact MPV a more premium appearance, complemented by a newly sculpted bonnet and redesigned front bumper.

The light setup has been completely overhauled with advanced LED projector headlamps featuring integrated LED daytime running lights, whilst the rear gets updated LED tail lamps connect by a stylish embellisher strip.

Sitting on 128mm of ground clearance, the Triber maintains its commanding driving position, whilst roof rails capable of handling up to 50kg of load add practical versatility. The top-spec Iconic variant rolls on 15-inch dual tone flex wheels that emphasise the aerodynamic design.

The new Triber comes in a choice of three colours: Zanskar Blue, Grey and Terracotta Brown alongside existing hues to give buyers plenty of personalisation options.

New Interior

Inside Renault has completely redesigned the dashboard layout with a dual-tone finish that feels years ahead compared to the outgoing model. In the centre lies a new 8-inch floating touchscreen display that supports both wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The driving position gets a new redesigned steering wheel with multi funciton key controls. The insrument cluser also gets an upgrade to a 7-inch TFT LED display. Elsewhere there’s new seat upholstery, LED cabin lighting and blacked out door handles.

For those craving more premium features, the Iconic variant gets a wirelss charging pad, whilst all models benefit from a refriferated centre storage compartment and lower glove box. Renault says they’ve incorporated 23 litres of clever storage solutions througout the cabin.

On the of the standout features of the Triber has to be the configurable seating arrangement. The modular setup allows owners to configure the cabin as a 5, 6, or 7-seater dpending on their needs, with Easy-Fix third row seats that can be installed or removed in moments.

In 5-seater mode, the boot expands to a segment leading 625 litres of cargo space.

Performance Figures

Under the bonnet, the 2025 Renault Triber continues with a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine good for 52kW and 96Nm of torque.

A 5-speed manual transmission comes standard across all three variants: Evolution, Techno and Iconic. There’s also the 5-speed AMT available exclusively on the Iconic trim.

Safety Upgrades

Perhaps the most significant update for 2025 is the expanded safety equipment. All Triber variants now come standard with six airbags—a substantial upgrade that brings the MPV in line with modern safety expectations.

A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is fitted across the range, alerting drivers to which tyres need attention before a problem develops.

Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) helps optimise braking performance, whilst front and rear seat belt reminders ensure all occupants buckle up.

The Follow-Me-Home headlamps provide 90 seconds of additional lighting when you arrive at your destination, and a Take-Belongings reminder helps prevent leaving valuables in the car.

The 2025 Renault TRiber range kicks off at R218 999 for the Evolution MT, with the Techno MT priced at R233 999. The Iconic MT commands R249 999, whilst those wanting the convenience of AMT will pay R259 999. There’s also a Triber Express variant (without roof rack) listed at R249 999.

All models come backed by a 2-year/30,000km service plan and a standard 5-year/150,000km warranty, providing reassurance for long-term ownership.

Die heart French auto connoisseurs will remember that the Citroen brand was established back in 1919 by André Citroën with the double chevron logo being the key link to the brand over the years. Over these years Citroën has lead innovation in the automotive sector as the first to introduce front wheel drive in cars in 1934, the Citroën DS was the first European production car with disc brakes and this happened back in 1955. Technology has been at the forefront of the company with its primary need being to make cars that fit the needs of consumers.

The Citroën C3, C3 Aircross and C5 Aircross are no different, now being the manufacturers new kids on the block. The Citroën C3 and C3 Aircross are very similar apart from the size, and some key features that do distinguish them apart quite significantly.

Zooming in on the C3 hatch, at first glance you’ll notice that it is quite bold and has a SUV like appearance with the unmistakable two-tone body, whilst the C3 Aircross can be characterized by its larger size, lower grille, skid plates on the front and rear and raised grown clearance. The Citroën C5 Aircross is the flagship of comfort that boasts the impressive progressive hydraulic cushioning.

Both the C3 & C3 Aircross, including the Citroën C5 Aircross, come in two packages; The “FEEL” and “SHINE”.

The Citroën C3 has a five-speed manual transmission with a 1.2L 60kW PureTech engine on the FEEL option and a six-speed automatic transmission with a 1.2L 81kW on the SHINE.

On the other hand, the Citroën C3 Aircross only comes in the 1.2L 81kW Pure Tech engine and a six-speed automatic gearbox. The drive in both cars is exceptionally smooth with the Aircross coming out top of the two models due to its added engine performance. The spaciousness also contributes the added levels comfort and this particular model is better suited to tackle both urban driving and long distance with greater ease.

On the connectivity side the cars are equipped with MirrorLink, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to make your navigation and music experience more enjoyable and seamless. The C3 has hill-start assist for those nasty hills, active safety braking and coffee break alert. In addition to this the C3 Aircross also has the lane departure warning and keyless entry and start which is only available in the SHINE option. Unfortunately, the signature Airbump that helps to protect your car from unwanted parking lot bumps and scratches is only available in the SHINE options. Not that you care, anyways.

The Citroën C5 Aircross is the manufacturers new flagship SUV that claims to be the most comfortable in the segment. This is because of the Citroën Advanced Comfort programme, Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension and advanced comfort seats.

The C5 Aircross also boasts three individual sliding, folding and reclining rear seats. This helps when you want to increase boot space when loading up for your getaway. With the seats in a regular position you’re looking at 520 liters and can expand to upto 720 liters. While the seat having been slid forward only a short adult a child can sit comfortably this will also depend if the driver or passenger seat configuration. The Citroën C5 Aircross has been fitted with a 12.3-inch digital panel behind the steering wheel and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

The biggest win is the standard feature that all the models come fitted with six airbags and five year or 100 000KM warranty and service plan. I would have however, loved it of the Airbumps were a standard feature on the C3 and C3 Aircross.

Citroën has also limited the colours available in these cars for instance they are only available in Soft Sand, Natural White and Platinum Grey. This was a let a down as one would expect Citroën to pop the market with expressive colours.

Pricing for the C3 starts at R239 900 for the Feel derivative, R339 900 for the C3 Aircross and R469 900 for the C5 Aircross Feel.

Words by Tshego Mmahlatji