Renault Duster Is Back to Challenge the Hyundai Creta

By yashvi shah On 27-01-2026 at 1:15 pm

Renault has finally pulled the wraps off the much-awaited new-generation Duster, marking the return of a nameplate that once defined the midsize SUV segment in India. First launched in 2012, the Renault Duster quickly became popular for its rugged build, strong performance, and go-anywhere capability. Although it was discontinued in 2022, the Duster’s legacy never faded. Now, with the all-new third-generation model, Renault is aiming to reclaim its lost ground and take on segment leaders like the Hyundai Creta.

The new Renault Duster for India is based on the third-generation global model, with several tweaks to suit Indian preferences. From design upgrades to modern features and electrified powertrains, the SUV has been comprehensively reworked to meet current market expectations.

2026 Renault Duster: Design

The design of the Indian-spec Renault Duster stays close to the global version but gets subtle changes to create a distinct identity. Up front, the SUV features a muscular, sculpted bonnet and a gloss-black grille with bold DUSTER lettering. The eyebrow-shaped LED DRLs, which also function as turn indicators, add a modern touch to the face.

The blacked-out front bumper looks rugged and houses pixel-style fog lamps, while a silver skid-plate-style element gives a nod to the original Duster. The boxy silhouette, chunky black cladding, and C-pillar-mounted rear door handles enhance its SUV stance. It rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and offers a healthy 212 mm of ground clearance.

At the rear, the Indian-spec Duster gets trapezoidal wraparound tail lamps connected by an LED light bar, a feature not seen on the global model. A raked rear windshield, roof-mounted spoiler, and rear wiper complete the design.

2026 Renault Duster: Interior and Features

The cabin of the new Renault Duster mirrors the global-spec model and focuses on functionality with a modern layout. It gets an all-black interior theme with contrasting green stitching and accents. The layered dashboard houses a three-spoke steering wheel, a free-standing touchscreen infotainment system, and a fully digital instrument cluster.

Renault has retained physical controls for the climate system, making them easier to use while driving. The central console is clean and practical, featuring a compact gear shifter and shortcut buttons for features like seat ventilation. Both front and rear armrests add to passenger comfort, with cupholders and storage spaces neatly integrated.

Feature highlights include a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charger, dual-zone climate control, powered tailgate, and 6-way electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats.

Safety Features

Safety has received a major boost in the new Duster. It comes with six airbags as standard, along with a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, TPMS, disc brakes on all four wheels, and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold.

Most notably, the Renault Duster becomes the first Renault vehicle in India to offer a Level-2 ADAS suite. Renault is also targeting a full 5-star rating in NCAP crash tests, underlining its focus on occupant protection.

2026 Renault Duster: Engine and Transmission

To stay competitive in an increasingly electrified segment, Renault will introduce a strong-hybrid powertrain in the Duster. This setup includes a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 109 PS, paired with an electric motor generating 49 PS and a 20 PS hybrid starter generator, powered by a 1.4 kWh battery. This hybrid version is expected to launch in India by Diwali 2026.

In addition, the SUV will be offered with a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine delivering 163 PS and 280 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed DCT automatic. There will also be a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 100 PS and 160 Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Price, Launch Timeline, and Rivals

Renault has already opened bookings for the new Duster at ₹21,000. The SUV is expected to launch in March 2026, with prices likely to range between ₹10 lakh and ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom).

The new Renault Duster will compete in a crowded midsize SUV segment against rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, MG Astor, Honda Elevate, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Tata Sierra, and Tata Curvv.