The eagerly anticipated new-generation Renault Duster has finally been sighted in India, marking its debut in the country nearly a year after its international unveiling. Expected to go on sale in the latter half of 2025, the Duster will compete in the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment, taking on rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Toyota Hyryder.
Renault’s Expanding SUV Line-up
The Duster will be the first of four upcoming Renault SUVs slated for the Indian market, all of which will share the versatile CMF-B platform developed by the Renault-Nissan alliance. This new Duster generation will feature only petrol engine options, aligning with the brand’s future strategy for India.
A Distinct Renault and Nissan Styling Approach
In addition to Renault’s Duster, alliance partner Nissan is developing its own version, featuring distinct styling elements and Nissan-specific design cues to differentiate it from the Duster. Renault and Nissan confirmed last year that these models will also serve as export products, reinforcing their investment in the Indian market.
Renault’s teaser images have revealed subtle differences in the Indian Duster model, such as a prominent Renault emblem on the grille in place of the standard “Renault” lettering seen overseas. Meanwhile, Nissan’s SUV will feature unique design details, including L-shaped connected LED daytime running lights and a light bar across the front fascia.
Seven-Seater Options and Future Expansions
Looking ahead, Renault plans to introduce seven-seat versions of these SUVs, beginning with the larger Renault Bigster. The three-row variants will likely face competition from the Hyundai Alcazar, MG Hector Plus, Tata Safari, and Mahindra XUV700. These versions are expected to carry forward the same powertrains but could feature a slightly longer wheelbase and distinct styling elements.
India-Focused Design and Export Potential
All four Renault-Nissan SUVs will be manufactured on the CMF-B platform, adapted specifically for the Indian market and optimized for local production to ensure competitive pricing. Leveraging economies of scale, Renault and Nissan also intend to export these SUVs to several international markets.
Petrol-Powered Engines Only
The India-bound Duster and its sibling models are expected to feature petrol-only powertrains, including the 1.3-litre HR13 turbo-petrol engine, which produces 156 hp. This engine was previously offered in the Nissan Kicks and Mercedes A-Class. Additional powertrain options may include a tuned 1.0-litre turbo-petrol from the Kiger and Magnite and a potential 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine for entry-level variants. However, Renault and Nissan have no plans to reintroduce the popular K9K diesel engine.
Timeline for Launch
Renault and Nissan will first introduce their compact SUVs to rival the Creta, followed by the seven-seater versions. Both brands have confirmed that their new offerings will begin arriving in India by late 2025, marking a significant expansion in their product line-ups.
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