Renault India is preparing for a strong comeback in the Indian SUV market, and leading the charge will be the all-new third-generation Renault Duster. The much-awaited SUV, which has been one of the most talked-about models in recent years, is finally set to make its official India debut this Diwali, while the launch is planned for early 2026.
The new-generation Duster promises to be a modern, feature-rich, and premium SUV while retaining the rugged DNA that made the original Duster a household name in India.
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New Renault Duster (2026): What to Expect
1. Third-Generation Model Based on All-New Platform
The third-generation Duster will be based on the CMF-B LS (Common Module Family – Low Specification) platform, designed specifically for emerging markets like India.
- This architecture will help reduce production costs while ensuring high safety and quality standards.
- The platform is hybrid-ready, capable of supporting mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid powertrains.
- It will also underpin future Renault and Nissan SUVs for India.
2. Design & Styling
The new Renault Duster will undergo a complete design transformation while retaining its iconic SUV stance and rugged proportions.
Expected Exterior Highlights:
- Renault’s new corporate logo
- Sleek LED headlamps and C-shaped DRLs
- Bold front and rear scuff plates
- Muscular wheel arches and chunky alloy wheels
- A more premium, sporty, and modern overall design
The India-spec Duster is expected to follow the global design language but will be tailored to Indian preferences.
3. Premium Cabin & Feature-Loaded Interior
Inside, the new Duster will be a huge leap forward compared to its predecessor, offering a tech-focused cabin with improved materials and segment-leading features.
Expected Interior Features:
- Panoramic sunroof
- Fully digital instrument cluster
- Driver-oriented touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Wireless charging & multiple USB-C ports
- Premium leatherette upholstery
- Ventilated front seats & powered driver’s seat
- Dual-zone climate control
- 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system (expected)
- Level 2 ADAS for the first time on a Renault in India
4. Advanced Safety Package
The new Duster will be the first Renault car in India to feature ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), making it one of the safest SUVs in its segment.
Expected Safety Features:
- ADAS Level 2 features:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keeping assist
- Forward collision warning & emergency braking
- 6–7 airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic stability program (ESP)
- Hill-hold & hill-descent control
- High-strength chassis for improved crash safety
5. Engine & Transmission Options
While Renault has yet to officially confirm the engine lineup for India, reports suggest the SUV will be petrol-only at launch, with hybrid options possible later.
Expected Engine Choices:
- 1.3L 4-cylinder turbo-petrol (HR13DDT)
- Two power tunes: 130 BHP / 240 Nm & 150 BHP / 250 Nm
- Strong-hybrid variant may launch later
- Possibility of CNG and alternate fuel options in the future
Transmission Options:
- 6-speed manual gearbox
- 6-speed wet-clutch DCT automatic
Renault is also working on a six/seven-seater version of the new Duster, which will be launched later under a different name — likely Renault Boreal. This model will share the same platform but offer a more spacious cabin and extended practicality.
Expected Launch Timeline & Pricing
- Unveil → Diwali 2025
- Launch in India → Early 2026
- Expected Price Range → ₹11.5 lakh – ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Competitors → Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Honda Elevate, and Skoda Kushaq.
The all-new Renault Duster is shaping up to be a game-changer for Renault India. With a modern design, premium features, hybrid-ready powertrains, and segment-leading ADAS safety tech, the SUV aims to take on popular models like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos head-on.
If Renault prices it aggressively, the Duster could reignite Renault’s position in the competitive midsize SUV segment.
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