Renault India is poised for a major comeback in the competitive compact SUV segment with the launch of the all-new Renault Duster. The company has officially announced that the next-generation model will be unveiled on January 26, 2026, strategically coinciding with India's Republic Day celebrations.
From Pioneer to Powerhouse: The Duster Legacy
Originally launched in 2012, the Renault Duster is credited with pioneering and reshaping the compact SUV space in India. It laid the groundwork for a category that now commands nearly a quarter of the nation's passenger vehicle market. The 2026 model aims to reignite the passion for this celebrated nameplate with a completely fresh approach.
Rigorous Global Testing for Indian Roads
Ahead of its debut, Renault has put the new Duster through an exhaustive testing regimen to ensure robustness for diverse Indian conditions. The SUV has clocked more than one million kilometres of testing across three continents.
The testing spanned extreme environments in Brazil, Romania, France, China, and the Czech Republic. The vehicle was evaluated in temperatures ranging from a freezing -23°C to a scorching 55°C. Indian high-altitude conditions were simulated in Leh-Ladakh, alongside controlled dust and water-wading tests.
All-New Design & Feature-Packed Interior
The next-gen Duster sports a radical new look, drawing inspiration from the Bigster concept, and bears little resemblance to its predecessor. The front features sleek LED headlights with signature Y-shaped DRLs, large air intakes, and a muscular bonnet. Squared-off wheel arches, roof rails, body cladding, and V-shaped LED taillights enhance its rugged stance.
Inside, the cabin gets a modern, rugged layout with Y-shaped AC vent inserts echoing the exterior theme. It is equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 7.0-inch fully digital instrument cluster. Key features include:
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Wireless phone charging
- Ventilated front seats
- Arkamys 3D sound system
- Comprehensive ADAS suite including automatic emergency braking, lane assist, and traffic sign recognition.
Expected Powertrain & Off-Road Capability for India
While global markets get multiple engine options, including hybrid variants, the Indian market is expected to receive a turbo-petrol engine with both manual and automatic gearbox choices. The 4x4 variant is also anticipated, which would come with the Terrain Control system offering five driving modes: Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-road, and Eco.
The 4x4 version boasts a ground clearance of 217 mm, an approach angle of 31°, and a departure angle of 36°. It also includes hill-descent control for speeds up to 30 kph, with all off-road information displayed on the central screen.
The launch of the new Renault Duster on Republic Day 2026 marks a significant moment for the brand, aiming to reclaim its throne in one of India's most beloved and fast-growing vehicle segments with a thoroughly tested, feature-rich, and capable SUV.
