The Renault Duster had a cult following in India. However, the midsize SUV was discontinued in early 2022 due to aging first-generation model and poor sales. With an aim to revive its market in India, the French automaker is gearing up to reintroduce the Duster in its all-new avatar early next year. Interestingly, the company has skipped the second-gen Duster, and decided to bring in the third-generation model directly, challenging the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hydyder and other rivals in the segment.
Also Read: Renault Boreal (7-Seater Duster) Unveiled – Launch Timeline & Full Details
What We Noticed
Ahead of its market arrival, the carmaker has started testing the new 2026 Renault Duster in India. One of its heavily camouflaged test mules was recently caught on camera in Bengaluru. While the spy images managed to conceal most design details, some key highlights are still evident such as an upright stance, V-shaped taillamps, roof-mounted spoiler, shark fin antenna and roof rails, massive wheel arch cladding, a raked windshield and rear washer and wiper.
India-Spec Styling Changes
Compared to its global-spec version, the India-spec Duster will have slightly different styling such as revised front and rear bumpers and new alloy wheel design. Previously released official teaser confirmed that the new Renault Duster will feature Y-shaped LED lighting elements, a new signature grille with Renault’s new logo, a sculpted bonnet, blacked-out B-pillars, ORVMs with integrated turn indicators and body-coloured door handles.
Premium Cabin & Features
While the official interior details are yet to be revealed, the 2026 Renault Duster is likely to offer more premium cabin and features than its predecessor. The SUV is expected to come with the following features
- Large touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- OTA (over-the-air) updates
- Wireless phone charger
- 7-inch digital instrument cluster
- Dual zone AC
- Ventilated front seats
- Rear AC vents
- 360-degree camera
- Electronic stability control
- Rear view camera
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
- Rear parking sensors
- 6 airbags
- ADAS
Multiple Engines
As far as powertrains are concerned, the new Renault Duster will initially be offered with petrol engine options. The carmaker might use the 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol for the lower and 1.0L turbo or 1.3L turbo petrol engines for the mid-spec and higher variants of the SUV. The Duster hybrid will join the lineup at a later stage, while Renault is also considering the CNG fuel option for the SUV.
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