Renault India Unveils Next-Generation Duster SUV with Major Upgrades
Renault India has officially unveiled the highly anticipated new-generation Duster, marking a significant comeback for this popular mid-size SUV in the Indian automotive landscape. The latest iteration maintains its rugged heritage while incorporating substantial updates across design, powertrain options, technology, and features tailored to meet contemporary Indian consumer expectations. The new Duster is scheduled to hit the market later this year, with official pricing set to be announced in mid-March, creating excitement among SUV enthusiasts.
Comprehensive Powertrain Options Including Strong Hybrid
The new Renault Duster offers a diverse range of powertrain choices to cater to various driving preferences. These include the robust Turbo TCe 160 petrol engine, which delivers an impressive 163 PS of power and 280 Nm of torque, providing spirited performance. For those seeking a more accessible option, the Turbo TCe 100 petrol unit is also available, balancing efficiency with capability.
In a notable development, Renault has confirmed the introduction of the Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 for the Indian market. This advanced setup combines a 1.8-litre petrol engine with a 1.4 kWh battery, enabling up to 80% electric-only driving in urban conditions, which promises enhanced fuel economy and reduced emissions. Deliveries for this hybrid variant are planned around the Diwali 2026 period, aligning with festive demand. Transmission options are versatile, featuring a six-speed dual-clutch automatic with a wet clutch for the Turbo TCe 160, alongside a six-speed manual gearbox for traditional driving enthusiasts.
Rugged Exterior Design with Enhanced Proportions
The new Duster showcases a redesigned exterior that builds upon the model's established rugged identity while introducing modern aesthetics. Key design elements include a distinctive trapezoidal grille, full LED headlamps incorporating Renault's global lighting signature, and sleek LED tail lamps connected by a horizontal light bar, enhancing visibility and style.
With 212 mm of ground clearance, the SUV is well-equipped for off-road adventures, supported by approach and departure angles of 26.9 degrees and 34.7 degrees respectively. It rides on stylish 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, complemented by pronounced wheel arches and durable door protection cladding for a robust appearance. In terms of dimensions, the SUV measures 4,346 mm in length, 1,815 mm in width, and 1,703 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,657 mm, offering ample interior space. An exclusive Mountain Jade green exterior shade is introduced, along with a dual-tone option featuring a black roof and spoiler for added visual appeal.
Driver-Focused Interior with Premium Materials
Inside, the new Duster adopts a driver-centric cabin design inspired by aviation themes, emphasizing comfort and functionality. The interior layout features a raised centre console with an electronic gear selector, tactile switchgear, and sculpted front seats adorned with yellow contrast stitching for a sporty touch.
Material upgrades elevate the cabin experience, including leatherette upholstery, soft-touch surfaces on the dashboard and door panels, carbon-fibre style accents, and metallic detailing. A panoramic sunroof is also offered, enhancing the sense of openness and luxury within the vehicle.
Advanced Connected Technology and Comfort Features
The SUV is equipped with a cutting-edge 10.1-inch OpenR Link infotainment system with Google built-in, marking its debut in a mass-market vehicle in India. This system integrates Google Maps, voice assistance, real-time traffic information, and access to compatible apps via the Play Store, ensuring seamless connectivity. A 10.25-inch digital driver display mirrors navigation and vehicle information, providing drivers with essential data at a glance.
Comfort features are extensive, including ventilated and electrically adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, an air quality display with PM2.5 filtration for healthier cabin air, an electric parking brake with auto-hold functionality, and a powered tailgate for convenience.
Personalised Driving and Safety Settings
Renault has introduced profile-based personalisation through Google account sign-in, allowing drivers to save preferences for infotainment, driver assistance systems, and vehicle settings. Selected Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) functions can be enabled or disabled individually and stored to user profiles, enhancing safety and customization.
Multi-sense drive modes include Eco, Comfort, and Perso, enabling drivers to adjust engine response, steering feel, and ambient lighting according to their preferences, offering a tailored driving experience.
Bookings and Delivery Timeline
Pre-bookings for the new Renault Duster are now open through the purchase of an R Pass priced at ₹21,000. Benefits include priority delivery, introductory pricing advantages, and branded merchandise, adding value for early adopters. Customer deliveries are expected to commence in April 2026, following the price announcement in March, setting the stage for a competitive SUV segment in India.
