Renault India is preparing to launch the new-generation Renault Duster, a popular mid-size SUV in the Indian market. The company has already made significant strides with the re-launch of the Kiger SUV and the upcoming upgrades to the Kwid. The exciting news is that the price announcement for the third-gen Duster is scheduled for the coming months. As the excitement builds, let’s take a closer look at what the new-gen Duster has to offer, its expected features, and the competition it will face in the market.
Production and Launch Timeline
Renault India has confirmed that the production of the new-generation Duster will begin in September 2025 at its Chennai-based production facility. Following Renault’s acquisition of a 51% stake from Nissan India, the company now has full control over this facility, which is crucial for the production of the upcoming Duster. The car is expected to be revealed around the festive season, either in October or November 2025. With deliveries likely to begin by January 2026, the Duster is set to hit the roads soon after the price announcement, which is expected by the end of this year.
Short Summary
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
Model |
New-Gen Renault Duster |
Launch Timeline |
Revealed in Oct-Nov 2025, Price Announcement End of 2025, Deliveries in Jan 2026 |
Production Facility |
Chennai-based, full control after Nissan stake acquisition |
Engine Options |
1.3L Turbo Petrol (151bhp, 250Nm), 1.5L NA Petrol or 1.0L Turbo for lower trims |
Transmission |
6-speed manual, Dual-clutch automatic |
Hybrid Version |
Expected in late 2026 or early 2027 |
Key Features |
10.1-inch touchscreen, ADAS, 360-degree camera, 6 airbags, ESP, etc. |
Expected Price |
Rs 10 lakh to Rs 17 lakh (Ex-showroom) |
Competitors |
Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara |
Website |
Strong Market Demand and Customer Buzz
The Renault Duster has always been a popular choice among Indian customers, and the buzz surrounding the upcoming model is immense. According to Francisco Hidalgo, the Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Renault India, the new Duster is creating significant excitement among potential buyers. In fact, some customers have already made advanced payments to dealers in anticipation of being among the first to own the new-generation Duster. This overwhelming demand reflects the vehicle’s strong position in the Indian SUV segment.
Engine Specifications and Variants
The new-generation Renault Duster will initially launch with a petrol-only engine lineup, with a hybrid variant expected to follow. The petrol version of the Duster will be powered by a 1.3-litre, 4-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine that delivers an impressive 151 bhp and 250Nm of torque. Transmission options will likely include a 6-speed manual gearbox and a dual-clutch automatic transmission, offering a dynamic driving experience.
For the entry-level variants, Renault may offer a 1.5L naturally aspirated (NA) petrol engine or a smaller 1.0L 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. The hybrid version, expected to arrive around late 2026 or early 2027, will offer a more eco-friendly alternative.
Platform and Design Updates
The new-generation Duster is based on Renault’s new CMF-B modular platform, which also underpins the upcoming 7-seater Boreal and the Nissan C-segment SUV. This platform is expected to provide enhanced rigidity, better crash safety, and improved driving dynamics. As a result, the new Duster will offer more comfortable and refined handling compared to its predecessors.
In terms of design, the new Duster will retain its rugged SUV appearance, with a more modern and updated styling. Expect sharper lines, a bold front grille, and updated LED lighting elements to give the car a fresh look that resonates with current automotive trends.
Interior Features and Technology
The cabin of the new Duster will showcase a significant upgrade over the previous generation. It will feature a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, enabling seamless connectivity with smartphones. The driver’s display will be digital, further enhancing the vehicle’s modern look and feel.
Comfort and convenience will also be taken to the next level with features such as:
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Powered driver’s seat
-
Ventilated front seats
-
Automatic climate control
-
Modern storage solutions
In addition to these features, the Duster will offer several high-tech safety features, including:
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Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
-
360-degree surround view camera
-
Six airbags
-
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
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Traction control
-
Hill launch and descent control
These updates ensure that the new Duster will provide a safe, comfortable, and technologically advanced driving experience.
Pricing Expectations and Market Competition
Renault India has been focusing on higher levels of localization for the new Duster, which should help the company achieve a competitive pricing structure for the vehicle. Industry experts predict that the price of the third-generation Duster will range between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 17 lakh, ex-showroom. This pricing will place it in direct competition with some of the leading mid-size SUVs in India, such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and others.
Renault aims to make the Duster a more appealing choice for customers by offering a combination of advanced features, competitive pricing, and a rugged design.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When will the new Renault Duster be launched in India?
A. The new-gen Renault Duster is expected to be revealed during the festive season, around October-November 2025, with deliveries starting in January 2026.
2. What engine options will be available for the new Renault Duster?
A. The new Duster will offer a 1.3L turbo petrol engine (151bhp), with potential lower-spec variants featuring a 1.5L NA petrol or 1.0L turbo petrol engine.
3. Will there be a hybrid version of the Duster?
A. Yes, Renault is working on a hybrid version of the Duster, expected to be launched around late 2026 or early 2027.
4. What safety features will the new Duster have?
A. The new Duster will come equipped with Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree surround view camera, six airbags, ESP, traction control, and hill launch/descent control.
5. How much will the new Renault Duster cost?
A. The new Duster is expected to be priced between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 17 lakh, ex-showroom.
6. Who are the competitors of the new Renault Duster?
A. It will compete with popular mid-size SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Grand Vitara.
Conclusion
The third-generation Renault Duster promises to build on the success of its predecessors by offering a modern, feature-packed, and highly capable SUV. With a focus on safety, technology, and comfort, it is poised to become one of the leading contenders in the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment. As Renault prepares for its launch in late 2025 or early 2026, the market is eagerly awaiting its arrival.
