New Renault Duster: The SUV Returns with Modern Appeal

After several years off the market in India, the Renault Duster is returning in a completely new generation designed to meet modern expectations for technology, comfort, safety, and performance. Its official launch in India is confirmed for January 26, 2026, aligning with Republic Day celebrations — a date that signals Renault’s renewed commitment to this key market. 

Design & Exterior

The new Duster has evolved dramatically from its earlier generations:

• Bold SUV Styling: Compared to past versions, the new model sports sharper bodylines, modern LED lighting signatures and a more athletic stance, blending ruggedness with contemporary flair.
• India-Specific Touches: Early teasers reveal India-specific design elements such as distinctive LED daytime running lights and connected taillamps that differ slightly from global models. 
• Practical SUV Traits: A higher driving position, functional roof rails, and robust cladding underscore its SUV character.

Interior & Technology

Inside, the new Duster embraces modern cabin tech:

• Digital & Connected: A 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto leads the dashboard, complemented by a digital instrument cluster. 
• Comfort Features: Expect climate control, rear AC vents, multiple USB-C ports, and quality seating materials — all aimed at everyday usability. 
• SUV-Ready Accessories: Practical touches like cooled storage, adjustable mirrors, and well-thought-out cargo space add to daily convenience. 

Performance & Powertrains

Globally, the new Renault Duster uses the CMF-B platform that supports a variety of efficient petrol, mild-hybrid, and hybrid powertrains. 

Engine options internationally include:

• 1.2-litre turbo-petrol with 48-V mild hybrid, improving fuel efficiency and drivability. 
• 1.6-litre strong hybrid petrol, for even better efficiency and smoother city driving. 
• 1.0-litre turbo-petrol/LPG bi-fuel unit, giving flexibility for different markets. 

For India, the exact engine lineup isn’t officially confirmed yet, but a turbo petrol with manual and automatic gears is widely expected, and there’s strong anticipation among enthusiasts for AWD versions too. 

Safety & Driver Assistance

Renault has equipped the new Duster with a competitive safety suite:

• ADAS Level-2 features — including automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and traffic sign recognition — are planned in several markets.
• Standard safety essentials like ABS, ESC, airbags, hill-start assist, and rear parking sensors add confidence on all drives. 

Expected Price & Rivals

Industry estimates suggest the India launch price might start around ₹10 lakh and go up to ₹18 lakh (ex-showroom)depending on variant and drivetrain options. 

When it lands, the new Duster will compete with SUVs such as:

• Hyundai Creta
• Kia Seltos
• Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
• Toyota Hyryder
• MG Astor
• Skoda Kushaq / Volkswagen Taigun

—all popular family and lifestyle SUVs with strong tech and safety packages. 

What the New Duster Means for Renault

The Duster isn’t just another model — it’s symbolic of Renault’s comeback strategy in India and other emerging markets. Its legacy as a practical, no-nonsense SUV with good space, reliability, and value helped it carve out a loyal fan base in earlier years. The new generation aims to combine that heritage with contemporary design, advanced tech, and efficient powertrains.