2026 Renault Duster launched at Rs 10.29 lakh

Renault has brought back the Renault Duster to the Indian market, with prices starting at Rs 10.29 lakh (ex-showroom). The popular SUV nameplate returns after being discontinued in 2022, now entering its third generation with a completely new platform, updated design and modern features.

- Rivals the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Honda Elevate
- Deliveries for the turbo-petrol versions will begin in April

Built on Renault's new RGMP architecture, the latest Duster is offered in five variants - Authentic, Evolution, Techno, Techno+ and Iconic, with prices going up to Rs 18.49 lakh. Deliveries for the turbo-petrol versions will begin in April, while the strong-hybrid variant is expected to arrive later this year. Customers who pre-booked the SUV using the 'R Pass' (priced at Rs 21,000) can avail benefits that effectively reduce the final cost by Rs 20,000 to Rs 40,000.

The company is also introducing a subscription-based ownership model starting April 1. This plan eliminates the need for a down payment and combines registration, maintenance and other costs into a single monthly fee. Buyers can choose different usage plans and later decide whether to extend, return or purchase the vehicle.

Under the hood, the new Duster gets two turbo-petrol engine options at launch. A 1.0-litre unit produces 100 PS and 160 Nm and comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox. A more powerful 1.3-litre engine delivers 163 PS and 280 Nm, paired with either a manual or a dual-clutch automatic transmission. Renault has also confirmed a 1.8-litre strong-hybrid powertrain for India, expected around Diwali 2026. This setup combines a petrol engine with electric motors to deliver a total output of 160 PS.

Inside, the cabin has been redesigned with a modern dashboard layout that combines digital and physical controls. It features leatherette upholstery and a dual-screen setup, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Other highlights include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control, a wireless charger, panoramic sunroof and powered front seats with ventilation.

In terms of design, the India-spec model features a bold new look with LED headlights, distinctive daytime running lamps and prominent 'Duster' branding on the grille. It also gets muscular body cladding, flush-type rear door handles integrated into the C-pillar, and alloy wheels up to 18 inches in size. The SUV offers 212mm of ground clearance and functional roof rails that can carry up to 50 kg. At the rear, it gets connected LED tail-lamps and a contrasting bumper finish.

The Duster also focuses heavily on safety and convenience. It comes with six airbags as standard, disc brakes on all four wheels and an electronic parking brake. Additional features include a 360-degree camera, tyre pressure monitoring system and parking sensors at both ends. Notably, this is the first Renault model in India to offer Level 2 ADAS features, and the company is aiming for a 5-star safety rating.

The SUV will be sold with a warranty of up to seven years or 1,50,000km and will be available in six colour options. In the market, it will compete with models like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Honda Elevate, Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq. Coupe-style alternatives such as the Tata Curvv and Citroen Basalt are also priced in a similar range.