[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Renault has officially brought back the Duster nameplate in India, unveiling the next-generation Duster as the first model under its International Game Plan 2027 for the market. Once credited with creating the mid-size SUV segment in the country, the new Duster aims to build on its reputation for ride and handling while adding modern design, new powertrains, deeper localisation and significantly upgraded technology.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Built on a New Modular Platform, Engineered for India
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The new Renault Duster is underpinned by the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP), a highly flexible architecture developed specifically with India in mind. Close to 90 per cent of the vehicle’s components are India-specific. The platform has been validated for extreme operating conditions, ranging from minus 23 degrees Celsius to 55 degrees Celsius, tested over more than one million kilometers, and evaluated at altitudes up to 18,379 feet.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Renault says the platform is engineered to meet five-star safety standards and comes with 35 standard safety features. It is also designed to support multiple powertrains, including internal combustion, hybrid technology and advanced connected systems compatible with Google Automotive services.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Three Powertrain Options, Including a Strong Hybrid Debut
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]For India, the new Duster will be offered with three turbocharged powertrain options. The range is topped by the Turbo TCe 160, a new-generation turbocharged GDi petrol engine producing 163 PS of power and 280 Nm of torque, making it the most powerful in its segment. This engine is offered with a six-speed manual gearbox and a six-speed dual-clutch automatic with a wet clutch, tuned for Indian driving conditions. Renault has also used a patented Power-Glyd coating to improve durability and efficiency.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The Turbo TCe 100 serves as the more accessible petrol option, paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]For the first time in India, Renault is introducing the Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 in the Duster. The system is based on a 1.8-litre petrol engine combined with a 1.4 kWh battery. Renault claims the hybrid setup allows up to 80 per cent electric driving in city conditions, making it the most efficient and powerful hybrid in the segment. Deliveries of the hybrid version are scheduled to begin around Diwali 2026.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Rugged Design with Clear Evolution
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Visually, the new Duster retains its rugged stance while adopting a sharper, more contemporary design. It features a trapezoidal front grille with the Duster badge placed prominently and highlighted with yellow accents. Full LED headlamps with Renault’s global lighting signature, LED fog lamps and LED tail lamps are standard, along with a horizontal rear light bar that adds visual width.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]With 212 mm of ground clearance, a 26.9-degree approach angle and a 34.7-degree departure angle, the Duster continues to focus on rough-road capability. The SUV rides on 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and gets prominent wheel arches and door-side protection.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Dimensionally, the new Duster measures 4,346 mm in length, 1,815 mm in width and 1,703 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,657 mm. Renault is offering a Mountain Jade Green exterior shade inspired by Himalayan forests, along with a dual-tone option featuring a black roof and spoiler.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Driver-Centric Cabin with Fighter-Jet Inspiration
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Inside, the Duster adopts a distinctly driver-focused layout inspired by a fighter jet cockpit. The elevated centre console houses an electronic shifter, while physical buttons are retained for frequently used functions. The seating features sculpted cushions and backrests with yellow stitching and perforations inspired by Renault’s logo.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Mountain Jade leatherette upholstery with Renault logo patterns is used extensively, including on the seats, upper dashboard and door inserts, complemented by carbon-fibre textures, metallic accents and soft-touch materials. An electric panoramic sunroof adds to the sense of space.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The cabin also focuses on usability. The main multimedia screen is positioned 502 mm from the driver with a 17.9-degree viewing angle to optimise visibility and reduce distraction.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Google Built-In Makes Its India Debut
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]A major highlight is the introduction of Renault’s OpenR Link multimedia system with Google built-in, making its mass-market debut in India. The 10.1-inch touchscreen integrates Google Maps, real-time traffic, Google Assistant, Google Play Store with over 100 compatible apps and native streaming services, without requiring smartphone pairing. Renault has confirmed that the Google Assistant will be upgraded to Gemini through a future software update.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The system is paired with a 10.25-inch TFT digital driver display that can replicate navigation maps and key driving data. In total, the Duster offers more than 60 connected features through Renault’s MYR app.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Personalised Tech and Driving Experience
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Renault has focused on personalisation rather than just adding features. Drivers can log in using their Google account, allowing the vehicle to remember preferences for apps, navigation, ADAS settings and drive modes. ADAS functions can be individually selected or disabled, with preferences saved to the user profile.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The Duster offers Multi-Sense drive modes as Eco, Comfort and Perso allowing control over engine response, steering feel and ambient lighting. The ambient lighting system supports up to 48 colour combinations, further enhancing cabin customisation.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Safety, Comfort and Practicality
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The SUV is equipped with 17 ADAS features, along with hill descent control. Comfort and convenience features include ventilated front seats with six-way electric adjustment and manual lumbar support, dual-zone automatic climate control, an AQI display with PM2.5 filter, an electric parking brake with auto-hold, an electric tailgate and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Additional features include rain-sensing wipers, auto headlamps, wireless smartphone charging, touch-activated cabin lighting, puddle lamps, hands-free access with push-button start and an Arkamys audio system with six speakers.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]In terms of practicality, the Duster offers a boot capacity of 518 litres under the parcel shelf and up to 700 litres when loaded to the roof, along with 32.6 litres of interior storage space. Renault will also offer over 50 accessory categories and its YouClip accessory system.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Warranty, Ownership and Launch Timeline
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The new Renault Duster will be offered with a warranty of up to 7 years or 1,50,000 kilometres under the Renault Forever programme, aimed at improving long-term ownership confidence.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Pre-bookings are now open through an R Pass priced at Rs 21,000, which offers introductory pricing benefits, priority delivery, exclusive merchandise and a factory experience. Prices for the new Duster will be announced in mid-March 2026, with deliveries of petrol variants beginning in April 2026.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]With its combination of strong engines, hybrid technology, deep localisation and connected features, the new Renault Duster marks the start of Renault’s next phase in India rather than just the return of a familiar badge. |
