Renault India has been working on revamping its presence in the country. As part of this process, the brand has recently facelifted its existing vehicles, such as the Triber and the Kiger. To take things to the next level, the French manufacturer is planning to bring back the Duster moniker. The popular SUV will return to Indian shores in its latest avatar.
While the brand has not yet revealed official details regarding its launch, both the specifications and the launch date remain unconfirmed. However, as per the latest updates, it is possible that the car might be launched in early 2026.
The third-generation Duster, which is expected to launch in India, has already been introduced in South Africa in a right-hand-drive (RHD) format. It has been launched there at a price of 489,999 Rand, which is approximately ₹23.36 lakh.
It is worth noting that Renault India’s lineup — consisting of the Kwid, Kiger, and Triber — has had a noticeable gap since the discontinuation of the Duster in 2022. The segment in which the Duster competes has become highly competitive in recent years, and Renault will need to strategize carefully to ensure a strong reception for the new model.
Competitors
The third-generation Renault Duster will have to compete with popular compact and mid-size SUVs such as:
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Toyota Hyryder
- Hyundai Creta
- MG Astor
- Kia Seltos
- Skoda Kushaq
- Volkswagen Taigun
- Honda Elevate
- Citroën C3 Aircross
Platform and Powertrain Options
The all-new Duster has been constructed on the CMF-B modular platform, which is also used in various vehicles from Dacia, Renault, and Nissan.
The upcoming Renault Duster is expected to launch with three main powertrain options:
- 1.6-litre strong-hybrid petrol engine, paired with two electric motors and powered by a 1.2 kWh battery pack, delivering a peak output of 138 hp.
- 1.2-litre petrol engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system, generating a total of 128.2 hp.
- 1.0-litre petrol-LPG dual-fuel engine, producing 98.6 hp, mated to a 6-speed transmission that powers all four wheels.
