Renault India has officially teased the return of the Duster with an emotional, nostalgia-driven video that reconnects buyers with the SUV that once redefined the segment in India. The teaser does not show the car itself, but instead reflects on how the Duster encouraged Indians to step beyond “the lines,” explore the unknown, and turn everyday owners into explorers.
Renault Revives Duster Legacy with Emotional Teaser
Launched in India over a decade ago, the original Duster played a key role in popularising the monocoque SUV format, blending car-like comfort with rugged capability. Its ride quality, robust diesel engines and go-anywhere image helped it build a strong emotional connect with buyers, even as competition in the segment intensified over the years.
With the closing message — “The SUV that started it all is here to do it again. New Renault Duster. The icon is back.” — Renault clearly signals that the next-generation Duster is nearing its Indian debut. The teaser arrives at a crucial time for Renault as it prepares a broader product revival strategy for India, with the Duster expected to play a central role in rebuilding the brand’s presence in the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment.
New-Gen Renault Duster India Launch Timeline
The new-generation Duster is set to be launched in India on 26 January 2026. Recent spy shots suggest the SUV is in an advanced, near-production stage, indicating Renault is in the final phase of testing. The India-spec model closely follows the international Dacia Duster in terms of proportions and stance, while receiving several market-specific upgrades.
Despite heavy camouflage, the new Duster’s rugged and boxy silhouette is clearly visible. The upright stance, chunky wheel arches and strong shoulder lines stay true to the Duster DNA. Earlier sightings have revealed Y-shaped LED DRLs, polygonal headlamps and a more sculpted front fascia. The rear continues with a steeply raked windscreen, upright tailgate and revised bumper design. Redesigned alloy wheels and a stronger road presence are expected for the India-spec version.
Cabin and Features: Big Step Up
One of the biggest upgrades is expected inside the cabin. Recent spy shots reveal an all-black interior theme with green stitching, giving the SUV a sportier and more premium feel. Renault is likely to offer a triple-screen dashboard layout for India, setting it apart from the global model. Expected features include a 10.1-inch touchscreen, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, OTA updates and a 360-degree camera. A powered tailgate has also been spotted, a segment-significant addition. On the safety front, the new Duster is expected to come equipped with six airbags, ESC and ADAS-based driver assistance features, aligning it with current segment expectations.
Engines, 4×4 and What to Expect
The test mule spotted in India is powered by a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Importantly, Renault is also preparing to offer 4×4 capability, a hallmark of the Duster brand that once set it apart from rivals. Strong-hybrid powertrains are expected to follow later, along with CNG options, in line with Renault’s global strategy.
The new Renault Duster will sit in the 4.3-4.5 metre SUV segment, taking on rivals such as Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder and Tata Sierra. Renault is expected to price Duster as one of the most aggressively positioned SUVs in the segment. With nostalgia setting the emotional tone and a significantly upgraded product on the way, Renault appears confident that the new Duster can once again “rewrite the map” — this time for a new generation of Indian SUV buyers.
