Renault to launch low-cost 4x4 in India

French auto group Renault announced on Tuesday the launch in India of its low-cost four-wheel drive "Duster" vehicle built by its Dacia subsidiary.

Duster, a model first introduced in 2010, will be especially adapted for the Indian market, the statement said.

Before the end of the year, Renault hopes to introduce five vehicles in India including the Duster, the Fluence, the 4x4 Keleos, a compact car, and a fifth model yet to be named.

"Five launches in only 15 months is not only a first for Renault, but also for the Indian market," the statement said.

Renault said India is one of the three pillars of its international strategy along with Brazil and Russia.

Renault hopes to increase its current network of dealerships in India from 14 today to about 100 - covering 90 percent of the territory - before the end of 2012.

mch/arp/hd