Renault has confirmed that the third-generation New Renault Duster will be launched in India on March 17, 2026. The SUV has already reached dealerships across the country for display and customer previews, with test drives underway. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in April 2026.
The New Renault Duster marks the return of the nameplate to the Indian market after it was discontinued in 2022. Renault is positioning the SUV as a key product in its portfolio revival strategy in the midsize SUV segment.
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Powertrain Options at Launch
At launch, the India-spec Duster will be offered with two turbo-petrol engine options. The entry-level variant will use a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 100 hp. Buyers seeking higher performance can opt for the 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine that delivers 163 hp, making it one of the more powerful options in the segment.
Both engines will be paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, while the 1.3-litre unit will also be available with a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Renault has also confirmed that a 1.8-litre strong-hybrid petrol powertrain will join the line-up around Diwali 2026. This setup combines a 109 hp petrol engine with a 49 hp electric motor and a 20 hp hybrid starter generator, supported by a 1.4 kWh battery pack. The combined system output stands at 160 hp.
New Renault Duster: Exterior Design Highlights
The India-spec Duster retains the overall silhouette of the global model but features several market-specific design changes. The front fascia includes eyebrow-style LED daytime running lamps that also function as turn indicators, a bold grille with ‘Duster’ lettering, and pixel-inspired fog lamps.
In profile, the SUV gets black body cladding, C-pillar-mounted rear door handles, roof rails rated to carry up to 50 kg and alloy wheels up to 18 inches in size. Ground clearance stands at 212 mm. At the rear, a connected LED light bar and roof spoiler enhance its visual presence.
Approach and departure angles are rated at 26.9 degrees and 34.7 degrees respectively, underlining its SUV positioning.
New Renault Duster: Cabin and Features
Inside, the Duster receives a redesigned dashboard with a dual-screen layout. A 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is paired with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Renault has retained physical controls for key functions.
Other features include a panoramic sunroof, wireless charger, dual-zone climate control, powered tailgate, sliding front armrest and ventilated front seats. Safety equipment includes six airbags as standard, a 360-degree camera, parking sensors, tyre-pressure monitoring system, electronic parking brake, four-wheel disc brakes and Level 2 ADAS.
New Renault Duster: Expected Pricing & Rivals
The 2026 New Renault Duster is expected to be priced between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom). It will compete in the midsize SUV segment against models such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Skoda Kushaq and Honda Elevate.
With multiple powertrain choices, including a hybrid option later this year, Renault aims to re-establish the Duster as a strong contender in one of India’s most competitive SUV segments. Further details, including variant-wise pricing, will be announced at launch.
Disclaimer: Specifications, features and timelines mentioned are based on official information available at the time of publication. Final pricing and variant details will be confirmed at launch.
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Raj Prajapati is a senior automobile content writer at How2Guidess.in with over 3 years of experience in auto news, vehicle launches, comparisons, and EV updates. With a background in Computer Science & Engineering, he focuses on research-based, clear, and reader-friendly automobile content.