Renault is set to launch its popular SUV Duster in a new avatar in India in 2026. The new Duster will feature a premium interior, advanced features, and petrol engine options. It will directly compete with the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and other mid-size SUVs.
Renault Duster: French automaker Renault is preparing to launch the third-generation new Duster in India in 2026. The first generation was discontinued in 2022 due to poor sales, but now the company is making a direct comeback in a new avatar. Its test mules have been spotted in Bengaluru. It will feature a modern design, a premium cabin, advanced features, and petrol engine options, which will prepare it to compete against SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Toyota Hyryder.
Testing Begins in India
Testing of the new Renault Duster has commenced in India. Recently, a test mule was captured on camera in Bengaluru. The spy photos showed the car's design largely concealed, yet some key features were clearly visible. These included an upright stance, V-shaped taillamps, a roof-mounted spoiler, a shark fin antenna, roof rails, and large wheel arch cladding. Additionally, it featured a raked windshield and a rear washer and wiper.
Distinct Styling
The India-spec Renault Duster will feature styling changes. The company may offer new front and rear bumpers, newly designed alloy wheels, and more attractive exterior features. Teasers released earlier have confirmed that it will get Y-shaped LED lighting elements, a new signature grille, Renault's updated logo, and a sculpted bonnet. Additionally, it will feature blacked-out B-pillars, ORVMs with integrated turn indicators, and body-colored door handles.
More Premium Cabin
The interior of the new Renault Duster will be more premium than the outgoing model. Although official information has not yet been released, it is expected to feature several high-tech amenities. These may include a large touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, over-the-air updates, a wireless phone charger, and a digital instrument cluster.
The list of features will include dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, rear AC vents, a 360-degree camera, a rearview camera, and rear parking sensors. For safety, the company may also provide six airbags and an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS).
Powerful Engine Options
The new Renault Duster is likely to be offered initially with petrol engines only. The base variant may come with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine, while mid and top variants will have the option of a 1.0-liter turbo or 1.3-liter turbo petrol engine.
The company might also include a hybrid version of the Duster in its lineup in the future. Additionally, a CNG variant is also being considered, keeping Indian customers in mind.
What Made the Old Model Special
The Renault Duster was quite popular in India due to its b road presence and robust performance. It was one of the pioneering vehicles in the mid-size SUV segment that attracted Indian customers. However, due to a lack of timely updates and increasing competition, its sales gradually declined, leading to its discontinuation in early 2022.
Preparing for a Resounding Comeback
Now, the company is reintroducing the Duster in a new form with full preparation. The third-generation Duster will not only be better in terms of design and features but will also offer new technology and engine options. This could provide Renault an opportunity to regain a b foothold in the Indian SUV market.
Indian customers are eagerly awaiting the launch of the new Renault Duster, as this time the vehicle will directly challenge the top SUVs in the segment.
