Renault Duster India Comeback
Renault is bringing the new generation Duster back to India after a long gap. The official India debut date is confirmed as 26 January 2026 which is Republic Day.
This event will show the India spec SUV for the first time but customer deliveries will start later in 2026.
The brand is using this launch as a key part of its new product plan for the Indian market. Duster created the midsize SUV space in India in 2012 so Renault wants to use that name again to pull buyers back.
The new model will try to mix that rough road image with more tech comfort and safety for present buyers.
Renault Duster India Launch Date
The debut in India will happen on 26 January 2026 but that is only the reveal. Reports say bookings should open soon after the event once Renault shares variant and feature details.
Deliveries are expected to start by mid 2026 though some sources mention an early 2026 sales start.
This gap between debut and delivery gives Renault time to build enough units at its plant and set up dealer stock.
The company is also lining up another SUV based on the same platform so planning is shared between both brands.
Duster will be the first launch in that series so its timeline sets the pace for later models.
Expected Price Range in India
Pricing is not official yet but most auto outlets point to a clear ballpark. The expected starting ex showroom price sits around 10 to 12 lakh rupees for the base variant.
Higher trims with more features and stronger engines are expected to reach around 18 to 19 lakh rupees.
Some reports put the upper band near 15 lakh while others stretch it closer to 18 lakh so there is still a spread. Even with that range the new Duster clearly targets the core midsize SUV space in India.
Its price will likely overlap rivals like Hyundai Creta Kia Seltos Maruti Grand Vitara Toyota Hyryder and others.
Platform Engines and Performance
The new Duster uses the CMF B modular platform shared with global Renault and Dacia SUVs.
This architecture is built to support both front wheel drive and four wheel drive layouts and different engine types.
It also forms the base for a future seven seat Bigster style SUV that is expected later for India.
For India Renault plans a petrol only line up with no diesel engine on the cards.
Expected options include a 1.0 litre turbo petrol for lower variants and a 1.3 litre turbo petrol with around 150 horsepower for higher trims.
Global versions also use a 1.2 litre mild hybrid and a 1.6 litre strong hybrid which India might get later depending on costs and tax planning.
Transmission choices are expected to include a six speed manual and a CVT or automatic option with the more powerful engines.
Four wheel drive variants should come with a terrain management system with multiple drive modes plus good ground clearance above 210 millimetres.
That setup aims to keep the Duster image of handling broken roads and mild off road use without feeling too soft.
Features Design and Safety
The new Duster design keeps the blocky tough stance but looks sharper and more modern.
It gets new LED headlamps signature DRLs updated alloy wheels and a cleaner rear with modern tail lamps.
Cladding and roof rails help it keep that outdoors SUV look that made the earlier Duster stand out.
Inside the cabin buyers can expect a larger central touchscreen a digital or semi digital driver display and more storage.
Higher variants are likely to offer features such as connected car tech automatic climate control wireless charger sunroof and better quality materials.
Renault has to reach feature levels close to rivals because this segment is now packed with tech heavy SUVs.
Safety is a big focus this time with six airbags expected on higher trims plus ESC hill hold and ISOFIX as standard or near standard.
Reports suggest the India spec Duster is likely to get ADAS features such as autonomous emergency braking cruise control and lane aids on top variants.
Four wheel drive versions will also gain hill descent control and specific off road modes for loose surfaces and slopes.
Where Duster fits in the Indian market?
Renault wants the Duster to act as its main brand builder in India again. The earlier model had strong recall among buyers who liked its ride comfort steering feel and rough road ability.
If the new SUV combines that strength with better cabins and more tech it can pull back old fans and new buyers together.
The SUV field is crowded now so pricing and variant mix will be critical.
An aggressive entry price near 10 to 11 lakh for the base petrol manual would give it a clear hook in showrooms.
Strong mid variants with the 1.3 turbo petrol and automatic gearbox will likely be the main volume drivers because they match what rivals sell the most.
Disclaimer
This article is based on official announcements, media reports, and industry sources related to Renault and the upcoming Renault Duster for the Indian market. Final specifications, pricing, features, and delivery timelines may change at the time of launch. Readers should rely on Renault India’s official communications for confirmation.
