Renault India has officially unveiled the highly anticipated 2026 Renault Duster SUV in the Indian automotive market, signaling a significant comeback for the model that was originally introduced in 2012 and discontinued in 2022. The Duster, once a pioneer that reshaped India's compact SUV segment and laid the groundwork for one of the fastest-growing vehicle categories, is now poised to re-enter the fiercely competitive midsize SUV space. It will compete with rivals such as the Tata Sierra, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Maruti Victoris, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Honda Elevate, and the Skoda Kushaq facelift. In this comprehensive analysis, we delve into a detailed comparison between the 2026 Renault Duster and the Skoda Kushaq facelift, covering engine specifications, feature sets, and dimensional aspects to help potential buyers make an informed decision.
2026 Renault Duster vs Skoda Kushaq Facelift: Engine Options
Starting with the powertrain offerings, the new Renault Duster presents a versatile range of three engine options designed to cater to diverse driving preferences. The base variant features a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that generates 100 PS of power and 160 Nm of torque, paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox. For those seeking more performance, there is a 1.3-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine delivering 163 PS and 280 Nm of torque, available with either a 6-speed DCT or a 6-speed manual transmission. Additionally, Renault introduces a 1.8-litre strong hybrid petrol engine combined with a 49 hp electric motor and a 20 hp hybrid starter generator (HSG), supported by a 1.4 kWh (280V) battery. This hybrid setup produces a combined system output of 160 hp and 172 Nm, emphasizing efficiency and reduced emissions.
In contrast, the Skoda Kushaq facelift offers two engine choices. The first is a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that outputs 115 hp and 175 Nm of torque, with gearbox options including a 6-speed manual or a new 8-speed torque converter automatic. The second option is a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine producing 150 hp and 250 Nm of torque, which comes solely with a 7-speed DSG gearbox. This comparison highlights the Duster's broader engine lineup, including a hybrid variant, while the Kushaq focuses on refined petrol and diesel options with advanced transmission systems.
2026 Renault Duster vs Skoda Kushaq Facelift: Features
The 2026 Renault Duster is equipped with an array of modern features aimed at enhancing comfort, convenience, and safety. Key highlights include a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a panoramic sunroof for an airy cabin feel. Additional amenities comprise a wireless phone charger, dual-zone climate control, a powered tailgate, 6-way powered and ventilated front seats, 48-colour ambient lighting, keyless entry with push-button start/stop, and multiple drive modes. On the safety front, the Duster boasts six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, rear parking sensors, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, a 360-degree camera, an electric parking brake, disc brakes on all four wheels, and Level 2 ADAS features for advanced driver assistance.
The Skoda Kushaq facelift, on the other hand, features a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, integrated with connected-car technology. This system incorporates an AI companion app powered by Google technologies, offering advanced digital capabilities such as intuitive voice-based control enabled by Gemini AI. Other notable features include a fully digital 10.25-inch instrument cluster, a six-speaker Skoda sound system with a subwoofer and amplifier, automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, leatherette seats, electrically adjustable front seats with ventilation, and a segment-first rear massager. Both models emphasize technological innovation, with the Duster focusing on comprehensive safety and the Kushaq leveraging AI-driven connectivity.
2026 Renault Duster vs Skoda Kushaq Facelift: Dimensions
When it comes to physical dimensions, the Skoda Kushaq facelift measures 4225 mm in length, 1760 mm in width, and 1612 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2651 mm. It offers a ground clearance of 188 mm and a boot space of 491 litres, providing a compact yet practical footprint for urban driving.
The new Renault Duster, however, presents a more substantial presence with dimensions of 4343 mm in length, 1813 mm in width, and 1659 mm in height, along with a wheelbase of 2657 mm. It boasts a higher ground clearance of 212 mm and a significantly larger boot capacity of 594 litres. In direct comparison, the Duster exceeds the Kushaq facelift by 118 mm in length, 53 mm in width, and 47 mm in height, with a slightly longer wheelbase of 6 mm. This dimensional advantage translates to enhanced interior space, better off-road capability due to increased ground clearance, and greater luggage storage, making the Duster a more versatile option for families and adventure enthusiasts.
Overall, the 2026 Renault Duster makes a compelling comeback with its diverse engine options, rich feature set, and superior dimensions, positioning it as a strong contender against the Skoda Kushaq facelift in India's dynamic midsize SUV market. As both models vie for consumer attention, this comparison underscores the importance of evaluating individual priorities, whether it be hybrid efficiency, advanced tech features, or spacious design, in making the right choice for Indian roads.
