New-Generation Renault Duster India Launch – Design, Features, Engines, Price Expectations

The Renault Duster is ready to make a resounding return in India. Once the trendsetter in the midsize SUV segment, the Duster had gained a devoted fan base before being withdrawn from production in 2022. Now, Renault is getting ready to bring it back in a whole new avatar that will offer contemporary styling, cutting-edge technology, several engine choices, and improved safety. Due to its late 2025 or early 2026 launch, the new Duster is likely to take on segment leaders such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Toyota Hyryder.

The new Renault Duster brings modern design, hybrid engines, and premium features for Indian buyers

Let’s have a close look at what the new Renault Duster has in store for Indian customers.

Exterior Design – Rugged Yet Modern

Spy images of test mules spotted on Indian roads confirm that the new Renault Duster has begun its last phase of testing. Even in camouflage, many design features are evident. The SUV has a strong-looked profile with broad stance, raked windshield, and large body cladding to boost road presence.

At the back, the distinctive V-shaped LED rear lamps and roof-mounted spoiler are unmistakable. Some other important features are a shark-fin antenna, roof rails, and a strongly creased tailgate that makes the SUV look more dynamic.

In relation to the worldwide model, the India-bound variant will see some minor adjustments like new bumper designs, fresh alloy wheels, and styling changes to meet local tastes. Renault has also hinted at Y-shaped LED light units, an aggressive new grille carrying the refreshed logo, and a creased bonnet contributing to its off-road sturdiness.

New-Generation Renault Duster Two Versions – 5-Seater and 7-Seater

Renault will launch the Duster in two body formats for India. The normal 5-seater model will be for urban customers seeking a space-efficient-but-practical SUV, and a bigger 7-seater format, expected to be named the Bigster (or Boreal), will be for family-focused consumers.

The Bigster will take design cues from the global version but will have a longer wheelbase and greater cabin space. This two-pronged strategy enables Renault to tackle two of the fastest-growing SUV segments in the country under one badge.

Premium Cabin and Features

On the inside, the new Duster is all set to be a giant step ahead of the old generation. Look forward to a more upmarket cabin design with better materials and a feature-packed dashboard. Going by global specifications and reports, the India-spec Duster should feature:

10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
7-inch digital instrument cluster
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Ventilated front seats
Wireless phone charging
OTA (over-the-air) software updates
Rear AC vents
Multi-function steering wheel

Safety too has been addressed with technologies like:

Six airbags
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
360-degree camera with parking sensors
Blind Spot Monitoring
Lane Keep Assist
Autonomous Emergency Braking (as part of ADAS package)

All of these will enable the Duster to keep up with or even beat competitors in the very competitive midsize SUV segment.

Powertrain Options – Hybrid, Petrol, and More

One of the largest attractions of the new Renault Duster will be its varied range of engines that blend performance and efficiency. The SUV is equipped with a variety of powertrains in international markets, and several of them have a chance to get localized for India:

Full Hybrid (140 hp): This configuration enables as much as 80 percent of urban driving in pure electric mode and makes it fuel efficient and environmentally friendly.
Mild-Hybrid (130 hp): Fitted with a manual transmission, this motor includes 4×4 capability, and its popularity lies among those who cherish off-road performance.
Bi-Fuel (Petrol + LPG): A special variant that delivers up to 30 percent improved efficiency and lower operating costs, and one that will appeal to price-sensitive markets like India.
Turbo-Petrol Engines (1.3L or 1.0L): Expected in India, these will drive mid- and high-spec trims and provide punchy performance for highway driving.
Naturally Aspirated Petrol (1.5L): Will find use in base variants to maintain affordability.

Even as diesel is unlikely to make a comeback, Renault is considering launching a CNG variant to attract price-conscious customers as well.

Mileage Expectations

The Renault Duster hybrid variants should provide great fuel efficiency, and while the full-hybrid unit can do most of the city runs in EV mode, the bi-fuel LPG variant is also likely to reduce operating cost dramatically over regular petrol variants. Fuel efficiency being a big buying factor in India, all this will make the Duster a strong contender.

Price Range and Rivals

The new Renault Duster is likely to be priced between ₹10 lakh and ₹18 lakh (ex-showroom), varying based on the variant and engine option. This price positioning will put it directly against proven competitors:

Hyundai Creta
Kia Seltos
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
Toyota Hyryder
Honda Elevate

With its robust looks, loaded interiors, hybrid powertrain options, and aggressive pricing, the Duster may dominate a major niche once more.

Renault’s Strategy for India

Renault is going all in on the new Duster to turn around its fortunes in India. By bypassing the second-generation model and bringing out the latest global iteration directly, Renault is making a statement about its intent to provide Indian customers with a contemporary, world-class SUV. The inclusion of a 7-seater Bigster variant adds further depth to Renault’s lineup, with a chance to reach both midsize and family SUV shoppers.

If Renault is able to price the Duster competitively but with a healthy list of features, it might win back its cult status and go head to head against segment leaders.

Takeaways

The next-generation Renault Duster is set to be among the most thrilling SUV launches in India in the next few years. Its aggressive looks, hybrid and petrol powertrain, features of safety, and practical seating arrangements give the Duster all the components it needs to stage a resounding comeback.

Anticipated to arrive in late 2025 or early 2026, the Duster will provide customers with a tough yet modern option in the highly populated midsize SUV market. For Indian SUV fans, Renault’s return of its most iconic vehicle is nothing less than a revival tale worth waiting for.

FAQs

Q1. When will the new Renault Duster be available in India?

The new-generation Renault Duster will hit the Indian market by late 2025 or early 2026.

Q2. What is the powertrain that the new Renault Duster will come with?

The new Duster will have a range of powertrains including full hybrid, mild-hybrid, turbo-petrol (1.0L & 1.3L), naturally aspirated 1.5L petrol, and maybe an optional CNG one for India.

Q3. Is the new Renault Duster going to be available in a 7-seater variant?

Yes, Renault will introduce a 7-seater variant of the Duster, which may be named the Bigster, in addition to the regular 5-seater model.

Q4. How much will the new Renault Duster cost in India?

The new Renault Duster is expected to be priced between ₹10 lakh and ₹18 lakh (ex-showroom) depending on the variant and the engine size.

Q5. Which SUVs will Renault Duster rival in India?

The new Duster will rival Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, and Honda Elevate in the mid-size SUV segment.

Q6. What are the fuel efficiency expectations of the new Renault Duster?

The hybrid models of the Renault Duster are expected to give great fuel efficiency, with the full-hybrid model giving city driving on electric mode predominantly.

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