Cart 0
Renault Duster 2026: Official India Unveil on Republic Day – Price, Specs, ADAS & Hybrid Powertrains Expected
Renault India has officially confirmed the highly anticipated comeback of the iconic Duster SUV, setting the stage for a grand reveal on Republic Day, January 26, 2026. This marks a pivotal moment for the French automaker, as the all-new, fourth-generation Duster will be the first major product under the brand’s ambitious ‘International Game Plan 2027’ for the Indian market.
The original Duster was a segment pioneer, and its return is aimed squarely at reclaiming its position in the fiercely competitive mid-size SUV segment, challenging rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara/Victoris, and more.
🗓️ Key Details: Launch & Platform
| Feature | Detail | Impact for Indian Buyers |
| India Unveil Date | January 26, 2026 (Republic Day) | High national profile launch, indicating its importance. |
| Expected Price | $\text{₹ 10 Lakh to } \text{₹ 16 Lakh (Ex-Showroom)}$ | Aggressively priced to compete with segment leaders. |
| New Platform | Highly localized CMF-B Modular Platform | Modern architecture for better safety, features, and drive dynamics. |
| Expected Launch | Q1/Q2 2026 (Deliveries to follow unveil) | Indicates production is ready, minimizing wait time after the reveal. |
| Key Rivals | Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, VW Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Honda Elevate. | Targets the heart of the Indian passenger vehicle market. |
🔥 Design & Exterior: Muscular and Modern
The new-generation Duster sheds the old skin for a thoroughly modern and rugged design, heavily inspired by the global Bigster concept.
- Bold Stance: Features muscular panels, flared and squared-off wheel arches, and thick body cladding, emphasizing its SUV DNA.
- Signature Lighting: New sleek LED headlamp clusters with distinct Y-shaped LED DRLs at the front and inverted Y-shaped LED taillights at the rear.
- Off-Road Credentials: The global model boasts a high 217 mm ground clearance (for 4×4) and aggressive approach ($\text{31}^\circ$) and departure ($\text{36}^\circ$) angles, promising true go-anywhere capability, which was a hallmark of the original Duster.
- Wheels: Expected to feature striking dual-tone alloy wheels (up to 18-inch in global markets).
** interiors: Tech-Loaded Cabin**
The interior receives a massive technological and design overhaul, moving from a functional cabin to a feature-packed, contemporary space.
| Interior Feature (Expected in India) | Benefit |
| 10.1-inch Floating Touchscreen Infotainment | Clear display for navigation and entertainment. |
| 7.0-inch Digital Instrument Cluster | Fully customizable driver information display. |
| Wireless Connectivity | Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay for seamless smartphone integration. |
| Premium Audio | Arkamys 3D sound system (expected on higher variants). |
| Comfort Features | Automatic Climate Control, Wireless Phone Charging, and potentially Ventilated Front Seats and a Panoramic Sunroof on top trims. |
| Design Elements | Y-shaped inserts on AC vents and door panels to mirror the exterior lighting signature. |
🛡️ Safety & Advanced Features: ADAS Included
The new Duster is expected to comply with global safety standards, making it a much safer proposition than its predecessor.
- Core Safety: Multiple Airbags (up to 6 expected), ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and a 360-degree camera.
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Higher variants are strongly tipped to include Level 2 ADAS features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Change Warning, and Blind Spot Monitoring.
⚙️ Engine & Performance: Turbo-Petrol and Hybrid Power
While the official engine details for the India-spec model are pending, the Duster is expected to be a petrol-only offering initially, with a strong focus on modern, efficient powertrains.
| Engine Option (Expected) | Type | Power (Expected) | Transmission Options | Drivetrain |
| 1.3-litre Turbo-Petrol | $\text{4-cyl}$, $\text{TCe}$ $\text{Petrol}$ | $\sim 156 \text{ PS}$ | 6-speed $\text{MT}$, $\text{CVT}$/$\text{DCT}$ | $\text{FWD}$/Possible AWD (4×4) |
| 1.2-litre Mild-Hybrid | $\text{3-cyl}$ $\text{Turbo}$ $\text{Petrol}$ | $\sim 130 \text{ PS}$ | $\text{MT}$/$\text{Automatic}$ | $\text{FWD}$ |
| 1.6-litre Strong-Hybrid | $\text{Petrol}$ $+\text{ electric motor}$ | $\sim 145 \text{ PS}$ (Combined) | e-CVT | $\text{FWD}$ |
Note: The 1.3L Turbo Petrol engine with a $\text{DCT}$ and potential All-Wheel Drive (AWD/4×4) option will be a major highlight, giving it a unique advantage over many segment rivals. A strong hybrid variant is also under consideration for a later launch.
