New Renault Duster Spotted Testing in India: Everything You Need to Know

The Renault Duster is a name that resonates strongly with SUV enthusiasts in India. Known for its rugged appeal, practicality, and affordability, the Duster played a key role in shaping the compact SUV segment when it first launched in the country. After being discontinued, the SUV is now making a comeback in an all-new avatar. Recently, a test mule of the new Renault Duster was spotted on Indian roads, hinting that Renault is closer than ever to reintroducing this popular SUV.

Expected to rival heavyweights such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Toyota Hyryder, the new Duster is positioned as Renault’s key comeback model in the hotly contested mid-size SUV segment.

Spy Shots Reveal Key Design Details

The test mule, spotted in Bangalore, was fully camouflaged, yet some important design details could be identified. These align closely with the international version of the new-generation Duster, suggesting that Renault will keep the design language consistent across markets.

Exterior Highlights

• Front Profile: The SUV features a bold and upright stance with a sculpted bonnet, Y-shaped LED daytime running lamps, and a bull bar-inspired front grille. This upright fascia adds aggression to its road presence.
• Side Profile: Polygonal wheel arches with thick black cladding enhance the rugged look. Blacked-out B-pillars, conventional door handles, and ORVMs with integrated turn signals further refine the SUV’s appeal.
• Rear Profile: The most striking detail is the V-shaped LED tail lamps. Along with a raked windshield, a shark-fin antenna, roof rails, and a rear washer-wiper, the rear design completes its muscular stance.

These cues confirm that the India-bound Duster will retain the robust, outdoorsy character that made its predecessor a household name.

Summary Table

Cabin and Interior Expectations

While the interior of the India-specific model has not been revealed yet, the international version offers a strong hint of what buyers can expect. Globally, the Duster comes with:

• A new dashboard layout with a floating 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
• Digital driver display for a modern touch.
• Premium materials, improved upholstery, and soft-touch surfaces.
• Practical cabin storage options, keeping the Duster’s utilitarian spirit alive.

In India, Renault may tailor the trim and features to balance cost competitiveness with premium appeal. Expect connected car tech, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, climate control, and advanced safety features in higher trims.

Powertrain Options: What to Expect in India

Globally, the Renault Duster is offered with multiple powertrain choices. While Renault has not yet confirmed the exact line-up for India, here are the international options:

1. 1.2-litre Turbo-Petrol Mild Hybrid
   • Output: 128.2 hp
   • Paired with a 48V mild hybrid system for improved efficiency.
2. 1.6-litre Strong Hybrid Petrol
   • Output: 138 hp
   • Equipped with two electric motors and a 1.2 kWh battery pack.
3. 1-litre Petrol-LPG Bi-Fuel
   • Output: 98.6 hp
   • Offered with a 6-speed manual gearbox, with all-wheel-drive capability in select trims.

For India, the mild hybrid and strong hybrid petrol engines are the most likely candidates, as they align with growing consumer demand for fuel-efficient and eco-friendly powertrains. A diesel option appears unlikely, given the segment’s current market trends.

Safety and Features

Globally, the new Renault Duster emphasizes safety with a host of modern features, and the India-spec version is expected to follow suit. Likely inclusions are:

• Up to 6 airbags
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Traction Control
• Hill Start Assist
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in higher trims

Combined with its rugged build and updated design, the Duster is expected to score well on safety parameters, catering to modern family buyers.

Market Positioning and Rivals

The new Renault Duster will directly compete with:

• Hyundai Creta
• Kia Seltos
• Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
• Toyota Hyryder
• Skoda Kushaq
• Volkswagen Taigun

Renault will likely aim for aggressive pricing to re-establish itself in the SUV space, making the Duster a value-driven alternative to established rivals.

Expected Launch Timeline

While Renault has not confirmed an official launch date, the spy shots suggest that testing is at an advanced stage. Industry experts predict that the new Renault Duster could make its India debut in early 2026, with production beginning in late 2025.

FAQs

Q1. When will the new Renault Duster launch in India?

The new Duster is expected to launch in India by early 2026, with production likely to begin in late 2025.

Q2. What engines will the India-spec Renault Duster get?

While not confirmed, India may get the 1.2-litre mild hybrid and 1.6-litre strong hybrid petrol engines.

Q3. Will the new Duster be bigger than the old version?

Yes, the new Duster is expected to be larger, offering more cabin space and improved road presence compared to the previous generation.

Q4. Does the international Renault Duster have hybrid options?

Yes, it offers both mild hybrid and strong hybrid options, along with a petrol-LPG unit in select markets.

Q5. Who are the main rivals of the new Renault Duster in India?

Its primary rivals will be the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, and Volkswagen Taigun.