Renault reintroduces Duster in India with hybrid tech and new features
Renault has officially unveiled the third-generation Duster for India, marking the return of the popular midsize SUV after several years. First launched in 2012, the Duster played a key role in creating the midsize SUV segment in the country. With the latest iteration, Renault is attempting a comeback in the segment with updated styling, more features and multiple powertrain choices.
Launch and Powertrain Details
Pre-bookings have opened at Rs. 21,000, with prices scheduled for announcement in March. Deliveries of the turbo-petrol variants are expected to begin in April 2026, while the strong-hybrid variant is planned for a Diwali 2026 arrival.
The India-spec Duster will be offered with two turbocharged petrol engines and a strong-hybrid setup. The hybrid combines a 109 HP 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a 49 HP electric motor and a 20 HP hybrid starter generator, powered by a 1.4kWh battery, producing a combined 160 HP and 172 Nm.
Other engine options include a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol (163 HP, 280 Nm), available with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed DCT and a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol (100 HP, 160 Nm) paired with a 6-speed manual. Unlike the previous-generation Duster, all-wheel drive will not be offered at launch.
Exterior and Dimensions
While based on the global third-gen model, the Indian version includes several visual changes aimed at local buyers. These include new eyebrow-style LED DRLs that double as turn indicators, a redesigned grille that prominently spells out “Duster” in place of a Renault logo, and a silver surround for the bumper reminiscent of the original model. Pixel-shaped fog lamps and rugged black cladding further add to its SUV character.
The SUV sits on up to 18-inch black alloys, offers 212 mm of ground clearance and carries details exclusive to the Indian market, such as Himalayan motifs on the fenders and an ‘Iconic’ yellow strip on the cladding. At the rear, triangular tail-lamps connected by an LED light bar distinguish it from its global counterpart.
Key dimensions are as follows: length 4343 mm; width 1813 mm; height 1659 mm; wheelbase 2657 mm. The Duster claims up to 594 litres of luggage space and has a kerb weight starting at 1411 kg.
Interior and Features
The cabin has been redesigned for India with a new dashboard layout, dual screens and more premium touchpoints. Soft-touch materials, leatherette upholstery and contrast stitching lend a more upmarket feel. Physical buttons are placed below the central touchscreen for commonly used functions, and both front and rear occupants get practical storage solutions including slide-adjustable armrests and cup holders.
A 10.1-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 10.25-inch digital driver display, panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, dual-zone climate control, powered tailgate and powered ventilated driver seat are part of the feature list.
Safety and Warranty
The Duster’s safety package includes six airbags as standard, Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, TPMS, an electronic parking brake and disc brakes on all four wheels. Renault says it is targeting a 5-star crash test rating for the new model and will offer a segment-leading 7-year/1,50,000km standard warranty.
Market Positioning
With pricing expected in the Rs. 10 lakhs – Rs. 20 lakhs (ex-showroom) range, the 2026 Renault Duster is set to compete in a highly contested category against the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Toyota Hyryder, Maruti Grand Vitara, Maruti Victoris, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, Honda Elevate and the Tata Sierra.
For Renault, the new Duster represents an important opportunity to re-establish itself in the midsize SUV space after years of inactivity in the segment.
