Renault Duster unveiled in India with new design and powertrains; strong hybrid, premium interior

Renault’s decision to resurrect the Duster nameplate is a calculated one. When it first arrived in India over a decade ago, the Duster helped define the mid-size SUV category with its combination of robust engineering and car-like drivability. The new model aims to reclaim that legacy, while addressing the dramatic shift in buyer expectations that has taken place since. Developed specifically for India, with nearly 90 percent of the vehicle engineered for local conditions, the new Duster is underpinned by the Renault Group Modular Platform, a structure validated for extreme climates, long-term durability and five-star safety standards.

Inside, the Duster marks a major leap forward with a tech-rich, driver-focused cabin and premium materials
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Special Arrangement

Visually, the new Duster makes little attempt to chase soft-road trends. Instead, it leans into a distinctly muscular and purposeful design. Strong surfaces, squared-off wheel arches and a high-set stance reinforce its SUV credentials, while modern touches such as full LED lighting, a wide horizontal rear light bar and 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels bring it up to date. With 212 mm of ground clearance and best-in-segment approach and departure angles, the Duster continues to project genuine rough-road intent rather than urban crossover pretence. The new Jade Mountain Green colour, inspired by Himalayan landscapes, adds a distinctive visual identity without compromising on the vehicle’s rugged appeal.

Also read | Renault India unveils New Duster

Where Renault has made its most decisive strides is under the bonnet. The new Duster offers three distinct powertrain options, an increasingly rare approach in a segment where consolidation is the norm. The range is headlined by the Turbo TCe 160 petrol engine, producing 163 PS and 280 Nm of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed dual-clutch automatic. For buyers prioritising accessibility, the Turbo TCe 100 provides a lower entry point. More notably, Renault is introducing its strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 system to India for the first time in this category. Combining a 1.8-litre petrol engine with a 1.4 kWh battery, the hybrid is claimed to deliver up to 80 percent electric-only driving in city conditions, positioning the Duster as one of the most technologically ambitious SUVs in its class.

Squared-off wheel arches, high ground clearance and modern LED lighting highlight the Duster’s genuine rough-road intent
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Special Arrangement

The interior represents Duster’s most significant transformation. Renault has moved decisively beyond its utilitarian roots, delivering a cabin that feels contemporary and thoughtfully designed. The fighter-jet-inspired, driver-centric layout prioritises ergonomics and visibility, while material quality has taken a clear step forward through the use of leatherette upholstery, carbon-finish trim and distinctive yellow accents. Technology plays a central role, led by the 10.1-inch OpenR Link infotainment system with Google built-in, a first for a mass-market car in India. Complemented by a fully digital driver display, dual-zone climate control, ventilated and electrically adjustable front seats, a panoramic sunroof and a powered tailgate, the Duster’s interior now competes comfortably with the segment’s benchmarks.

This relaunch comes at a pivotal moment. The mid-size SUV segment is intensifying rapidly, with recent arrivals and updates such as the Kia Seltos, the reborn Tata Sierra and the refreshed Skoda Kushaq all aiming squarely at the Hyundai Creta. The Creta remains the reference point, thanks to its consistent pricing strategy and wide appeal, but the renewed competition suggests that buyers will soon have more compelling alternatives than ever before.

Multiple powertrain options, including a strong hybrid, position the new Duster as one of the most versatile SUVs in its segment
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

For Renault, the product itself appears well judged. The combination of three engine options, including a strong hybrid, a robust and masculine design, and a genuinely premium interior gives the new Duster clear points of differentiation. However, this is also one of India’s most price-sensitive segments. With prices yet to be announced, the Duster’s long-term success will depend heavily on how aggressively Renault positions it against entrenched rivals. As a package, the new Duster shines on paper. Whether it can translate that promise into sustained market success will ultimately be determined not by its specifications, but by its sticker price.

Expected price range.: INR 9.50 – INR 18 lakh

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