The legend has officially returned.
After a four-year hiatus, the third-generation Renault Duster was unveiled in India on January 26, 2026. This isn’t just a facelift; it’s a complete reimagining of the SUV that originally started the mid-size segment in 2012.
The Icon Evolved: Rugged Meets Modern
The 2026 Duster maintains its famous boxy silhouette but adds premium, modern touches.
Design: Features a bold front grille with "DUSTER" lettering instead of the standard logo, Y-shaped LED DRLs, and connected LED tail lamps.
Ruggedness: It remains a true SUV with a best-in-class 212mm ground clearance, 18-inch alloy wheels, and functional roof rails capable of carrying 50kg.
India-Spec Touches: The Indian version gets exclusive elements like Himalayan-inspired fender badges and a yellow "Iconic" strip on the body cladding.
Interior & Tech: A Major Leap Forward
Gone is the utilitarian cabin of the past. The 2026 model features a driver-centric "fighter jet" cockpit.
Dual-Screen Layout: A 10.1-inch infotainment screen with built-in Google services sits alongside a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display.
Premium Features: For the first time, it offers a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and 6-way powered ventilated front seats.
Practicality: A massive 518-litre boot (extendable to 700L) and a segment-first powered tailgate make it family-ready.
Engine Options: Hybrid vs. Turbo Power
Renault has ditched diesel for a more future-ready, petrol-only lineup.
1.0L Turbo Petrol (TCe 100): 100 PS and 160 Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual—ideal for city driving.
1.3L Turbo Petrol (TCe 160): A more powerful unit producing 163 PS and 280 Nm, available with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DCT.
1.8L Strong Hybrid (E-Tech 160): Confirmed for India, this variant combines a petrol engine with two electric motors for 80% EV driving in cities.
Safety & Pricing
Targeting a 5-star crash safety rating, the Duster comes with six airbags as standard and Level 2 ADAS (including adaptive cruise control and emergency braking).
Expected Price: ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom).
Bookings: Open now for ₹21,000 via the Official Renault R-Pass.
Launch Timeline: Prices will be revealed in mid-March 2026, with turbo variant deliveries starting in April. The Strong Hybrid will arrive around Diwali 2026.