Renault Duster Returns to India: SUV Renaissance or Tactical Gamble?

Renault Reintroduces the Duster in India

Renault is bringing the Duster back to India-after the first generation was phased out in 2022, and the second generation never made it to the Indian roads. Now, on January 26, 2026, the third-generation Duster is officially debuting in India. Although the vehicle has not been officially unveiled, a camouflaged production version was spotted on public roads. The Indian version will significantly differ from the global model, as confirmed by candid photos.

The vehicle features narrower headlights (compared to the global version) with LED daytime running lights in a ‘brow’ shape. There is a camera module on the grille, indicating a 360-degree view system. The front bumper will include three air intakes and a wide lower air duct, with fog lights on the sides. A radar sensor for driver assistance systems (ADAS) is installed on the windshield, making the new Duster the first Renault model in India with such a suite of aids. Additionally, the test vehicle is equipped with a panoramic sunroof.

Distinctive Exterior Features

Other exterior features include rear door handles integrated into the C-pillars, protective plastic wheel arch cladding, roof rails, and cameras in the side mirrors. The rear of the crossover will have a LED strip between the taillights. Also visible are a roof spoiler, rear wiper, and parking sensors.

Inside the Duster

While the interior of the Indian version of the new Duster has not yet been revealed, it is expected to be close to the global version of the model with the use of higher quality materials. According to preliminary data, the equipment list will include a media system with a 10-inch screen supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 7-inch digital instrument panel, and wireless smartphone charging.

Under the Hood

As for powertrains, the new Duster in India is likely to be offered exclusively with gasoline engines. Among them is a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine with a power output of 156 hp, familiar from the global version, as well as a 1-liter turbo engine from the Renault Kiger with increased power. Sources also report the potential appearance of a powerful hybrid version about a year after the model’s launch.

It is expected that the price of the Renault Duster 2026 in India will range from 1 to 2 million rupees ($11,000-$22,000 or approximately $11,000-1.75 million rubles). Renault Duster enters a very dense segment, and it will have to compete in India with Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, and Volkswagen Taigun.