Renault Duster makes a comeback with new engines, features, safety tech and variants. Check expected price range, specifications and key highlights.

New Delhi: Renault is all set to launch the much-awaited 2026 Renault Duster in India today, January 26, 2026, at 6:30 PM IST. The company will stream the launch event live online, marking the return of the popular SUV after it was discontinued in early 2022.

This launch is also Renault’s first major announcement under its International Game Plan 2027 for India. The original Renault Duster, launched in 2012, was a big success, selling over 2 lakh units in India and 1.8 million units globally. It was one of the first SUVs to popularise the midsize monocoque SUV segment in the country.

Showroom Timeline and Rivals

Reno (or Renault) plans to bring the 2026 Duster to dealerships between February and March 2026. A hybrid version is likely to arrive by mid-2026, ahead of the Diwali season.

The new Duster will enter the highly crowded midsize SUV segment and will compete with several established models. Among these are the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. Additionally, it will go up against the Honda Elevate and MG Astor. Moreover, rivals such as the Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq will add to the competition. At the same time, the Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder will pose strong hybrid-focused challenges. Furthermore, upcoming models like the Tata Curvv and Tata Sierra will also intensify competition in this segment

Expected Price and Variants

Renault is expected to price the Duster competitively. The base variant is likely to start between Rs 9.49 lakh and Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). Meanwhile, the higher trims are expected to be priced above this range. Furthermore, as buyers move up the lineup, the top-end variants could eventually go up to Rs 18–20 lakh, depending on the features offered and the chosen powertrain options.

On-road prices may range from Rs 14 lakh to Rs 24 lakh, depending on the city and variant.

The expected variant lineup includes:

• Authentic (base)
• Evolution
• Techno
• Emotion (top)

Both manual (MT) and CVT automatic options will be available.

Expected Ex-Showroom Prices (Variant-wise)

• Authentic MT – Rs 9.99 lakh
• Evolution MT – Rs 11.29 lakh
• Evolution CVT – Rs 12.59 lakh
• Techno MT – Rs 13.89 lakh
• Techno CVT – Rs 15.19 lakh
• Emotion MT – Rs 16.49 lakh
• Emotion CVT – Rs 17.79 lakh

Front-wheel drive will be standard. Renault is expected to offer an optional AWD system with 4×4 Terrain Control modes—Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-road, and Eco—along with hill-descent control, although the company has not yet confirmed its availability in India due to cost concerns. Renault also plans to introduce a 7-seater Bigster version in India at a later stage.

Engine Options and Performance

At launch, the Duster will be offered only with petrol engines, with no diesel option.

The main engine will be a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol producing 156hp and 250Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a CVT automatic. Lower variants may get a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, possibly an upgraded version of the unit used in the Renault Kiger.

Hybrid versions expected in mid-2026 include:

• A 1.6-litre petrol hybrid with two electric motors, delivering 140hp combined and using an e-CVT gearbox
• A 1.2-litre mild-hybrid producing 130PS and 230Nm

The turbo-petrol variants are expected to deliver up to 18 kmpl mileage.

Features and Technology

The 2026 Duster will come loaded with modern features, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and an Arkamys 3D sound system with six speakers.

Other features include wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, keyless entry with push-button start, cruise control, 360-degree camera, and connected car technology. Higher variants may also get a powered tailgate and a panoramic sunroof.

Safety Features and ADAS

Safety equipment includes six airbags as standard, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), seatbelt reminders, and a reverse camera.

The Duster will also be Renault’s first car in India to offer Level 2 ADAS. Features include automatic emergency braking for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcycles, traffic sign recognition with speed alerts, lane departure warning and lane assist, lane change warning, rear parking assist, and an emergency stop signal.

Design, Size, and Colours

Built on the localised CMF-B platform, the 2026 Duster measures 4,343mm in length, 1,813mm in width, and 1,661mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,657mm and 217mm ground clearance.

The SUV gets a rugged, boxy design with LED headlights, India-specific Y-shaped eyebrow-style DRLs, a rectangular grille with Renault lettering, chunky bumpers, squared wheel arches, dual-tone alloy wheels, thick body cladding, roof rails, C-pillar-mounted door handles, Y-shaped LED tail lights, and a connected tail light bar.

Interior Space and Cabin Details

Inside, the Duster features a layered dashboard with sharp lines, Y-shaped AC vents, and either an all-black or dual-tone interior theme. Upholstery options include black fabric or green accents, along with a prominent ‘Duster’ badge on the dashboard.

The rear seat offers enough space for two passengers over 6 feet tall. Boot space ranges from 472 litres to 594 litres, depending on configuration.

Colour Options

The SUV will be offered in multiple colours, including:

• Cedar Green
• Dusty Grey
• Pearl Black
• Mercury Silver
• Glacier White
• Sandstone Beige
• Terracotta Brown

Some colours may be limited to specific variants.

Market Buzz and Expectations

Ahead of the launch, pre-launch surveys show strong interest in the new Duster. On CarWale, 93% of 8,189 respondents said they are interested in the SUV, 74% approved the expected pricing, and 90% liked the design.

Social media discussions highlight design patent leaks and right-hand-drive reveals, with users praising the modern styling, advanced technology, and improved performance. Many buyers are also hoping for a 7-seater option, 4WD availability, and high safety ratings.

As the live launch begins at 6:30 PM, official details on pricing, variants, and features will be confirmed. Stay tuned for live updates.

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