2026 Renault Duster Teased Ahead Of India Launch

December 25, 2025

Renault Duster teased, combining legacy appeal with modern upgrades

Renault India has released a teaser video that leans on emotion rather than product visuals to announce the return of the Duster. The short film focuses on the SUV’s legacy in India, recalling how it encouraged owners to venture beyond routine roads and helped shape the country’s modern SUV culture. While the vehicle itself is not revealed, the message is clear: the Duster nameplate is set to make a comeback.

When it arrived more than a decade ago, the original Duster established a new benchmark by combining monocoque comfort with genuine rough-road ability. Its compliant ride, durable diesel engines and approachable pricing helped it stand out at a time when the segment was still evolving. Over time, competition intensified and the model lost ground, but its reputation remained intact among long-term owners.

The teaser ends with a statement that positions the upcoming model as a continuation rather than a reinvention, indicating that Renault sees the Duster as central to its broader strategy to regain relevance in India’s mid-size SUV space.

The next-generation Duster is scheduled for an India launch on 26 January 2026. Test vehicles spotted on public roads suggest the SUV is in an advanced stage of development. In terms of size and stance, the India-spec version closely mirrors the international Duster sold under the Dacia brand, while incorporating updates tailored for local preferences.

Despite camouflage, the new model’s squared-off proportions, pronounced wheel arches and upright posture are evident. Design elements seen on earlier test mules include Y-shaped LED daytime running lights, angular headlamps and a more sculpted front end. At the rear, an upright tailgate and revised bumper continue the rugged theme, with redesigned alloy wheels expected to enhance its road presence.

The most noticeable change is likely to be inside the cabin. Spy images point to a darker interior palette with contrast stitching, suggesting a move upmarket. For India, Renault is expected to offer a more feature-rich dashboard than the global version, potentially including a triple-screen layout.

Key features under consideration include a large touchscreen infotainment system, a fully digital instrument cluster, wireless smartphone connectivity, dual-zone climate control, over-the-air software updates and a 360-degree camera. A powered tailgate has also been observed during testing. On the safety side, the SUV is expected to meet current standards with six airbags, electronic stability control and advanced driver-assistance systems.

Initial test mules have been seen with a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine paired to a manual transmission. Renault is also expected to reintroduce four-wheel-drive capability, a feature that once differentiated the Duster from many of its rivals. Additional powertrain options, including strong hybrids and CNG variants, are likely to follow as part of a phased rollout.

In the market, the new Duster will compete in the crowded 4.3-4.5 metre SUV category against models such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder and the upcoming Tata Sierra. Pricing is expected to be competitive, with Renault aiming to balance value with a stronger feature set.

With its focus on heritage, tangible upgrades and familiar strengths such as ride comfort and off-road capability, the new Duster is positioned as a key pillar in Renault’s efforts to rebuild its footprint in India.