Main Takeaway: The Renault New Duster, a thoroughly refreshed version of the best-selling SUV, will debut in India in May 2026 with an expected ex-showroom price of ₹11–17 lakh. Updated styling, improved interiors, and enhanced powertrains—including turbo‐petrol and mild‐hybrid options—aim to keep it competitive in the sub-4-metre SUV segment.
Introduction
Renault will introduce the New Duster in India in May 2026, offering a compelling blend of rugged capability and modern amenities. With pricing from ₹11 lakh to ₹17 lakh (ex-showroom), the facelifted Duster features sharper design cues, a tech-rich cabin, and refreshed powertrains to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile family SUV. It positions itself between urban compact SUVs and larger premium offerings, maintaining its reputation for value and durability.
Launch Details and Market Positioning
Bookings for the New Duster will open in April 2026, followed by a May launch and deliveries from June. Produced at Renault’s Chennai plant, the New Duster takes on rivals such as the Hyundai Creta (₹10–18 lakh), Kia Seltos (₹11–19 lakh), and Maruti Grand Vitara (₹11–18 lakh). Renault India emphasizes the Duster’s proven off-road capability, spacious cabin, and low maintenance costs to differentiate it in a crowded market.
Expected Pricing and Variants
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) | Powertrain |
|---|---|---|
| Duster RXE Petrol | 11–12 lakh | 1.5L NA petrol (106 PS, 142 Nm), 5-speed MT |
| Duster RXS Turbo Petrol | 13–15 lakh | 1.3L turbo-petrol (156 PS, 270 Nm), 6-speed MT/DCT |
| Duster RXZ Diesel | 15–17 lakh | 1.5L turbo-diesel (115 PS, 260 Nm), 6-speed MT/AT |
| Duster RXZ Hybrid | 16–18 lakh | 1.2L turbo-petrol mild-hybrid (133 PS, 205 Nm), DCT |
The lineup covers traditional NA-petrol, punchy turbo-petrol, diesel, and a mild-hybrid to meet diverse buyer preferences.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | 1.5 NA Petrol | 1.3 Turbo Petrol | 1.5 Diesel | 1.2 MHEV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power (PS) | 106 | 156 | 115 | 133 |
| Torque (Nm) | 142 | 270 | 260 | 205 |
| Transmission | 5MT | 6MT / DCT | 6MT / 6AT | 7DCT |
| 0–100 km/h | 12.8 s | 9.5 s | 11.8 s | 10.5 s |
| Top Speed (km/h) | 170 | 195 | 180 | 185 |
| Fuel Efficiency (ARAI) | 14–15 kmpl | 14–16 kmpl | 18–20 kmpl | 18–19 kmpl |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 4,315×1,822×1,694 | Same | Same | Same |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,673 | 2,673 | 2,673 | 2,673 |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 210 | 210 | 210 | 210 |
Adaptive cruise control, hill-hold, and multiple drive modes are standard on higher trims.
Exterior Design and Features
The New Duster sports a revised front fascia with a wider grille featuring Renault’s C-shaped LED DRLs, sleek projector headlamps, and a sculpted bumper. Side profile retains muscular wheel arches now housing 17-inch dual-tone alloys. The rear gets connected LED tail lamps, an updated skid plate, and a roof-mounted spoiler. Colour options include Ocean Blue, Arctic White, and Lava Orange.
Interior Features and Technology
The cabin is refreshed with a dual-tone dashboard, larger 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. Key features include:
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Ventilated front seats (top trim)
- Wireless phone charger
- Ambient LED lighting
- Six-speaker Arkamys audio
Safety highlights include six airbags, ESC, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and a 360° camera on top variants.
Competition Analysis
| Model | Price (₹) | Key Specs | Differentiator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renault New Duster | 11–18 lakh | Petrol/Turbo/Diesel/MHEV | Proven off-road; low cost |
| Hyundai Creta | 10–18 lakh | Petrol/Turbo/Diesel | Modern design; feature-rich |
| Kia Seltos | 11–19 lakh | Petrol/Turbo/Diesel | Sporty styling; dual screens |
| Maruti Grand Vitara | 11–18 lakh | MT/AT/CNG | CNG option; strong dealer reach |
The New Duster’s ruggedness and value pricing remain its strongest selling points.
Expected Timeline and Availability
- Bookings Open: April 2026
- Launch: May 2026
- Deliveries: From June 2026
- Dealership Network: Renault’s pan-India network with demo vehicles and off-road test tracks.
Verdict
The Renault New Duster facelift combines updated styling, modern interiors, and diverse powertrains to remain competitive in India’s hotly contested compact SUV market. Its affordable pricing, proven durability, and enhanced feature set make it a compelling choice for buyers seeking a versatile family SUV with rugged credentials.
