Renault Duster Returns to India, Prices in March

Renault India has officially unveiled the third-generation Duster, marking the return of one of the most influential SUVs in the Indian market. First launched in 2012 and discontinued in 2022, the Duster was instrumental in shaping India’s mid-size SUV segment. Its return signals Renault’s renewed focus on the country under its International Game Plan 2027.

The all-new Renault Duster was revealed in Chennai on Republic Day 2026 and introduces major updates across design, technology, safety and powertrains, while retaining the rugged DNA that made it a household name.

Pre-Bookings, Price Announcement and Delivery Timeline

Renault has opened pre-bookings for the new Duster at Rs 21,000. Official prices will be announced in March 2026.

Launch Timeline at a Glance

• Price announcement: March 2026

• Turbo-petrol deliveries: April 2026

• Strong-hybrid launch: Around Diwali 2026

Exterior Design: Rugged Roots With Modern Indian Touches

Familiar Duster Toughness, Sharper Styling

The third-generation Duster retains its upright stance, squared-off proportions and muscular wheel arches, ensuring continuity with earlier models. Extensive black cladding reinforces its SUV character.

India-Specific Design Updates

The India-spec model stands apart from the global version with:

• Redesigned LED headlamps

• Eyebrow-shaped LED DRLs doubling as turn indicators

• Trapezoidal grille with prominent Duster badging

• Bold silver front bumper insert inspired by the first-generation Duster

• Pixel-style LED fog lamps

Side and Rear Profile Highlights

• 18-inch black alloy wheels

• Functional roof rails rated for 50kg

• 212mm ground clearance

• Strong approach and departure angles for light off-road use

At the rear, India gets a connected LED tail-lamp bar, C-shaped LED elements, roof spoiler, rear wiper and washer, and a black bumper with silver accents—features not available on the global model.

Exclusive Colour Options

Renault will offer a unique Mountain Jade Green shade inspired by Himalayan forests, along with dual-tone roof options for a premium appearance.

Interior Design: Driver-Centric and Premium

Fighter Jet-Inspired Cabin Layout

Inside, the new Duster introduces a driver-focused cockpit with sharp lines and a layered dashboard design. The cabin adopts a rugged yet modern theme with improved material quality.

Cabin Highlights

• Leatherette upholstery on seats, dashboard and door panels

• Black interior theme with contrast stitching and green accents

• Chrome-finished Y-shaped AC vents

• Raised centre console with electronic gear selector

• Three-spoke multifunction steering wheel

• Minimal physical buttons for a clean layout

Space and Practicality

• Sliding front armrest

• Large door pockets

• Rear cupholders

• 518-litre boot capacity (up to parcel shelf)

Comfort and Convenience Features

The new Duster is positioned as a more premium offering with features such as:

• Panoramic sunroof

• Dual-zone automatic climate control

• Powered tailgate

• Six-way electrically adjustable front seats

• Ventilated front seats

Dual Screens and Connected Technology

Advanced Infotainment and Digital Displays

The SUV gets a dual-screen setup comprising:

• 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system

• 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster

The infotainment system runs Renault’s OpenR Link interface and supports:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay

• Wireless Android Auto

• Over-the-air (OTA) updates

Additional Technology Features

• Wireless phone charger

• 360-degree camera system

• Connected car technology

• Ambient lighting

• Premium Arkamys sound system

Powertrains: Petrol-Only Line-Up With Hybrid Focus

Renault will offer the new Duster exclusively with petrol powertrains in India. Diesel and AWD options have been ruled out.

1.0-Litre Turbo-Petrol Engine

• Power: 100bhp

• Torque: 160Nm

• Transmission: 6-speed manual

1.3-Litre Turbo-Petrol Engine

• Power: 163hp

• Torque: 280Nm

• Transmission options:

  • 6-speed manual

  • 6-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT)

Strong Hybrid E-Tech Powertrain (Coming Later)

The highlight of the range is the Strong Hybrid E-Tech system, featuring:

• 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine

• Electric motor and hybrid starter generator

• 8-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT)

• 1.4kWh battery

Renault claims the hybrid system can run in electric mode for up to 80% of city driving, offering improved fuel efficiency and smoother performance. This variant will arrive around Diwali 2026.

Platform and Engineering

All variants are built on the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP), engineered specifically for:

• Indian road conditions

• Extreme temperatures

• Long-term durability

The platform has been designed to meet 5-star safety standards.

Safety: First Renault in India With ADAS

Level 2 ADAS Features

The new Duster becomes Renault’s first India model to offer Level 2 ADAS, including:

• Adaptive cruise control

• Lane-keeping assist

• Autonomous emergency braking

• Traffic sign recognition

Standard Safety Equipment

• Six airbags

• Electronic stability control (ESC)

• Front and rear parking sensors

• Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)

• Hill descent control

• Electronic parking brake

• Disc brakes on all four wheels

Rivals in the Mid-Size SUV Segment

Once launched, the new Renault Duster will compete against:

• Tata Sierra

• Hyundai Creta

• Kia Seltos

• Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara

• Maruti Suzuki Victoris

• Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

• Skoda Kushaq

• Volkswagen Taigun

• MG Astor

What This Means for Renault in India

The return of the Duster marks a strategic reset for Renault India, focusing on:

• Higher localisation

• Electrified petrol powertrains

• Advanced safety and technology

With its strong brand recall, modern features and upcoming hybrid option, the new-generation Duster aims to reclaim its lost ground in the competitive mid-size SUV space.