The iconic Renault Duster SUV is all set to return to India in an all-new avatar in 2026. Production of the SUV is likely to begin around September, 2025. Here, it will be positioned against the segment-leader Hyundai Creta, and other midsize SUVs, including Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder and, Honda Elevate. The third-generation Duster has already been revealed for the global market with comprehensive changes inside and out and the hybrid powertrain.
Staring with the powertrain, the India-spec Renault Duster is likely to be offered with a 1.3L HR13 turbocharged petrol engine, pushing out a maximum power of 156bhp. Select variants will get the Kiger’s 1.0L turbo petrol engine, while the lower trims might come with the 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol motor. There will be no diesel engine on offer.
Transmission choices will include both manual and automatic gearboxes. Similar to its global version, the model coming to India is likely to get AWD (all-wheel drive) system and multiple terrain modes – Eco, Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand and Off-Road. The ground clearance of the new Duster will be around 217mm.
The new Renault Duster will be designed on the modular CMF-B platform and share some design elements with the Dacia Bigster SUV. However, it will retain its original silhouette and boxy stance. The India-spec Duster will look slightly different from the globally available model.
Compared to the previous model, the new Renault Duster will have more upmarket and well-equipped interior. One of the biggest upgrades will be the ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) suite along with features such as a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless smartphone connectivity, 6-speaker Arkamys 3D sound system, a 7-inch digital driver’s display, two USB-C ports, and more.
Interestingly, the French automaker will also introduce a three-row Duster at later stage. The 7-seater Renault Duster will take on the Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari and MG Hector Plus. Nissan plans to expand its product lineup with the new Duster-based 5-seater and 7-seater SUVs. Both these models will carry different design language than their donor siblings. In fact, the reports suggest the upcoming Nissan SUVs will offer more features than the 5/7-seater Duster.
