Renault has launched the all-new, third-generation Duster in India at an introductory price of ₹10.29 lakh (ex-showroom). The popular SUV nameplate returns after being discontinued in 2022, now with a completely fresh design, upgraded features and new powertrain options. Built on Renault’s RGMP platform, the new Duster aims to re-establish itself in the competitive midsize SUV segment.
Price, Variants & Booking Details
The 2026 Duster is priced between ₹10.29 lakh and ₹18.49 lakh (ex-showroom). It is available in five variants: Authentic, Evolution, Techno, Techno+ and Iconic.
Renault had opened pre-bookings via the ‘R Pass’ for ₹21,000, which offers benefits such as a price reduction of ₹20,000–₹40,000 and priority delivery. Deliveries of the turbo-petrol variants will begin in April 2026, while the strong-hybrid version is expected to arrive around Diwali 2026.
Renault is also introducing a subscription model from April 1, allowing customers to use the vehicle without a down payment. The plan includes on-road costs and servicing bundled into a monthly fee, with flexible tenure and ownership options.
Engine Options & Performance
The new Duster is offered with two turbo-petrol engines at launch:
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1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 100hp and 160Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox
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1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 163hp and 280Nm, available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic
A strong-hybrid version will be introduced later in 2026. It will feature a 1.8-litre petrol engine combined with an electric motor and hybrid starter generator, delivering a total system output of 160hp. The setup uses a 1.4kWh battery and is expected to offer significantly better fuel efficiency.
Renault states that 91 percent of buyers have opted for the more powerful 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine, while interest in the hybrid is particularly high in metro cities.
Exterior Design & Dimensions
The 2026 Duster features a bold, rugged design with several modern elements. It gets LED headlights with eyebrow-shaped DRLs, a redesigned grille with ‘Duster’ lettering, muscular body cladding and up to 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.
Other highlights include functional roof rails with a 50kg load capacity, C-pillar-mounted rear door handles and a 212mm ground clearance. At the rear, the SUV gets connected LED tail-lamps and a contrasting bumper design.
Dimensions are as follows:
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Length: 4,346mm
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Width: 1,815mm
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Height: 1,701mm
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Wheelbase: 2,657mm
Boot space is rated at 518 litres, making it practical for family use.
Interior & Features
Inside, the new Duster gets a completely redesigned cabin with a premium layout and modern technology. It features a dual-screen setup with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.
Key features include:
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Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
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Dual-zone climate control
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Wireless phone charger
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Panoramic sunroof
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Powered tailgate
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Ventilated front seats
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6-way powered driver seat
The cabin also gets leatherette upholstery across the seats, dashboard and door panels, enhancing the overall premium feel.
Safety & ADAS
Safety has been significantly upgraded in the new Duster. It comes with six airbags as standard, disc brakes on all four wheels and an electronic parking brake.
Additional safety features include:
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360-degree camera
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Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
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Front and rear parking sensors
The SUV also becomes the first Renault model in India to offer Level 2 ADAS features. Renault is targeting a 5-star crash safety rating, and the Duster comes with a warranty of up to 7 years or 1.5 lakh kilometres.
Colour Options
The 2026 Duster is available in six colours:
Sunset Red, Pearl White, River Blue, Moonlight Silver, Stealth Black and Jade Mountain Green.
Rivals
The new Duster competes with popular midsize SUVs such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Honda Elevate, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq and Tata Sierra. It will also rival coupe-SUV alternatives like the Tata Curvv and Citroen Basalt.
Conclusion
With its competitive pricing, powerful turbo-petrol engines, upcoming hybrid option and a strong focus on features and safety, the new Renault Duster makes a strong comeback. If Renault manages to price the hybrid variant aggressively, the Duster could once again become a key player in India’s midsize SUV segment.
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