The iconic Renault Duster is making its highly anticipated comeback to India today, January 26, 2026, on Republic Day. After discontinuing the second-generation model in early 2022, Renault is reintroducing the third-generation Duster with a comprehensive redesign, modern features, and electrified powertrains. Here’s everything you need to know about the all-new Renault Duster 2026.
Launch Date and Timeline
The new Renault Duster is scheduled for its official India debut on January 26, 2026, marking Renault’s most significant launch under its International Game Plan 2027. Sales of the new Duster are expected to commence in February-March 2026, with pre-booking and test drive slots likely opening immediately after the official reveal.
Expected Price Range
The new Renault Duster is expected to be priced between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it competitively in the midsize SUV segment. The final pricing will vary depending on the variant, engine option, and feature list. Automatic variants are likely to carry a premium of ₹1 to 1.2 lakh over manual counterparts.
The starting price makes it accessible while the top-end variants promise premium features that rival segment leaders like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.
Design and Exterior Updates
The third-generation Duster adopts a bold, modern design language while retaining its rugged SUV character.
Key Exterior Features:
Front Design:
- LED headlights with Y-shaped LED DRLs and a rectangular grille with bold ‘Renault’ wordmark
- The Indian variant is expected to feature eyebrow-style LED DRLs positioned above the headlamps, making the front design distinct from the global version
- Muscular bumper with prominent skid plate
Side Profile:
- Newly-designed alloy wheels, pronounced squared-off wheel arches, and window line similar to the predecessor
- Rugged cladding and functional roof rails
- 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels depending on variant
Rear Design:
- Y-shaped LED tail lights and a chunky skid plate at the rear
- Connected LED light bar across the tailgate, a feature exclusive to the Indian model and absent in global versions
- Roof-mounted spoiler
Dimensions:
The new Duster measures 4,340mm in length, 1,855mm in width, and 1,696mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,673mm and ground clearance of 210-215mm, making it slightly larger than the outgoing model.
Colour Options
Internationally, the Duster is being offered in 7 colour options: Cedar Green, Dusty Grey, Pearl Black, Mercury Silver, Glacier White, Sandstone Beige, and Terracotta Brown. The India-spec model may feature some variations or additional colour choices tailored to local preferences.
Interior and Features
The cabin receives a complete overhaul with a focus on modern technology while maintaining functional practicality.
Interior Highlights:
Technology:
- 10.1-inch central infotainment unit with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support
- 7-inch digital driver’s display
- Triple-screen setup expected on higher variants, including the infotainment and digital instrument cluster
Comfort and Convenience:
- Powered driver’s seat, electrically operated ORVMs, connected car tech, ventilated front seats, automatic AC
- Wireless charging pad
- Panoramic sunroof (India-specific feature not available globally)
- Y-shaped AC vents matching the exterior design theme, with a big ‘Duster’ insignia on the passenger side of the dashboard
Safety Features:
- Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)
- 360-degree camera system, six airbags, electronic stability control, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors
Engine Options and Variants
The new Duster will be offered with petrol powertrains only, with no diesel option planned.
Confirmed Engine Options:
1. 1.3-Litre Turbo-Petrol Engine:
- Produces up to 156bhp and peak torque of 250Nm
- Available with 6-speed manual and CVT automatic transmissions
- Expected to power mid and top variants
2. 1.0-Litre Turbo-Petrol Engine:
- Lower-spec Duster will get an all-new 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine
- Likely to be borrowed from Renault Kiger with performance enhancements
- Expected to deliver around 100-110bhp
- Focused on fuel efficiency for entry variants
3. Hybrid Powertrain (Coming Mid-2026):
- Renault has confirmed that the new Duster will get a hybrid powertrain, likely to be launched by mid-2026
- Comprises a 94hp, 1.6L, 4-cylinder petrol engine paired with two electric motors and a 1.2kWh battery, with combined power output of 140hp
- The Duster hybrid is claimed to cover up to 80 percent of city drive on pure electric
Expected Mileage:
- 1.0L petrol: Approximately 18-20 km/l
- 1.3L turbo-petrol: 16-18 km/l
- Hybrid variant: 25+ km/l (claimed)
Platform and Technology
The new Renault Duster will be based on CMF-B architecture, 9mm wider and 2mm longer than the old version. This platform enables improved rigidity, better safety performance, and support for modern powertrains including hybrid and electrified options.
Competition
The 2026 Renault Duster will compete in the highly competitive midsize SUV segment against:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Toyota Hyryder
- Volkswagen Taigun
- Skoda Kushaq
- Honda Elevate
- Tata Curvv
- MG Astor
Legacy and Market Significance
The first-gen Duster came to the Indian market in 2012 and became the first monocoque mid-size SUV and popularised the segment. Within the first year itself, Renault successfully sold 40,000 units. The nameplate built a strong reputation for ruggedness, value for money, and go-anywhere capability.
After a four-year hiatus, Renault is banking on the Duster’s legacy combined with modern technology, hybrid efficiency, and competitive pricing to reclaim its position in a segment that has evolved dramatically since the original Duster’s heyday.
What Makes It Special
The 2026 Renault Duster brings several segment-first and unique features:
- India-Specific Design Elements: Connected LED tail lights and unique DRL signatures differentiate it from the global model
- Hybrid Technology: One of the few midsize SUVs to offer a strong hybrid option in this price range
- ADAS Features: Making it the first Renault model in India with advanced driver assistance systems
- Rugged DNA: Maintains its traditional tough SUV character with modern refinement
- Ground Clearance: Segment-leading ground clearance of 210-215mm for Indian road conditions
Bookings and Availability
Token bookings are expected at around ₹25,000 on Republic Day, with deliveries likely starting in March 2026. Interested buyers should contact their nearest Renault dealership for test drives and more information.
Final Verdict
The new Renault Duster 2026 represents a comprehensive evolution rather than just an update. With India-specific design touches, modern hybrid powertrains, Level 2 ADAS safety features, a tech-rich cabin, and competitive pricing between ₹12-20 lakh, it bridges nostalgia with contemporary expectations.
For buyers seeking a capable, future-ready SUV that combines toughness with efficiency and stands out in a crowded segment, the 2026 Duster presents a compelling package. The success of this launch could prove crucial for Renault’s future in the Indian market, as the brand looks to regain the momentum it built with the original Duster over a decade ago.
Mark your calendar for today, January 26, 2026, when this icon officially returns to reclaim its place in India’s SUV landscape.
