The 2026 Renault Duster marks the comeback of the iconic SUV in India after a gap of several years, with bookings already opened and a full launch in 2026. The new-generation Duster is redesigned inside and out to compete with popular mid-size SUVs and offers modern technology, advanced safety systems, and versatile petrol and hybrid powertrain options.
Exterior & Design
The 2026 Duster retains its rugged SUV character but adopts a sharper and more muscular stance. It features updated full LED Y-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs), a trapezoidal grille, large 17–18-inch alloy wheels, black body cladding, roof rails and a bold rear design with connected LED tail-lamps. The overall look blends contemporary style with traditional SUV toughness.
Interior & Comfort
Inside, the SUV gets a completely redesigned cabin tailored for Indian buyers, with soft-touch surfaces, layered trims and modern design elements. It features a dual-screen setup — a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google built-in and a 10.25-inch fully digital driver display. Comfort features include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated and powered front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless charging and a powered tailgate, giving it a more premium feel than before.
Engine & Performance
The 2026 Duster offers multiple petrol powertrain options: a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol, a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol (Turbo TCe 160) producing about 163 PS and 280 Nm, and — for the first time in India — a Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 system that pairs a 1.8-litre petrol engine with a battery pack for improved efficiency and up to around 80 % electric-mode city driving in certain conditions. Gearbox options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT) on suitable variants.
Features & Safety
Renault has equipped the new Duster with a comprehensive feature list. Highlights include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, connected car tech, Arkamys audio, a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, ventilated seats, and advanced safety systems such as Level-2 ADAS, six airbags, electronic stability control, 360° camera, tyre pressure monitoring and hill-descent control on appropriate variants.
Mileage & Efficiency
Fuel-efficiency figures vary by engine choice. The smaller 1.0-litre turbo-petrol option is expected to deliver the best economy among combustion engines, while the hybrid E-Tech 160 variant is engineered to offer excellent urban mileage thanks to its electric assist — though exact tested figures for Indian conditions are likely to be published closer to launch.
Price & Market Position
In India, the 2026 Renault Duster is expected to be priced broadly between ₹10 lakh and ₹18 lakh (ex-showroom) depending on engine, variant, features and hybrid option; on-road prices will vary by city and taxes. This pricing aims to position it against rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, and the Skoda Kushaq.
Final Verdict
The 2026 Renault Duster’s return represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor with a modern design, cutting-edge technology, a choice of dynamic engines including a hybrid, and a rich feature set. It targets buyers seeking a versatile, feature-packed mid-size SUV with strong on-road presence, everyday usability and modern connectivity and safety features.