Renault is banking as much on memory as it is on metal, as it brings back the Duster to India. Officially confirmed to arrive on January 26, this all new second generation Duster is being ushered in via a tease that relies fairly heavily on nostalgia.
For a model that once defined the compact SUV genre, this comeback is not so much about a new car as much as about recapturing an emotive connect many Indian buyers still remember.
Renault Duster: A Teaser Based on Memory
The teaser film released by Renault India is carefully designed to provoke recollection. It begins with a child playing with his set of toy cars, which stops the moment he sees a miniature version of the original Duster. That is followed by the screening of quick visuals of the SUV’s past, where an earlier avatar of the vehicle is seen in its elements on rough terrain.
The presence of vehicles marked (GOD) Gangs of Duster, is a nod toward the loyal community that the brand had fostered over years. The screen time ends with a dramatic glimpse of the new Duster, partially shrouded under a red cover, its LED lighting stealing attention without making any noise.
Renault Duster: Borrowing From the Nostalgia Playbook
While Tata Motors revived the Sierra nameplate, relying on its heritage to create curiosity. Renault seems to be doing the same with the Duster positioning the model as an icon rather than a new entrant. The message, loud and clear this is no new experiment but the reincarnation of something once trusted and loved.
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Renault Duster: Design to Signal a New Era
The India spec Duster is identical to the international model featuring Y-shaped LED headlamps, a bold grille and the design adopting a more upright stance.
At the back, it features a V-shaped tail lamp, roof rails and rugged cladding reinforcing its SUV DNA. Overall, it is sharper and more modern-looking, without letting go of much of the toughness which made its predecessor popular
Renault Duster: Ex-Spectations on Powertrains & Platforms
The new Duster is available with several engine options around the world, including mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid options. Although the French carmaker has not revealed the powertrains that will make it to India, it is highly expected that the hybrid variant would join the list of models such as the Grand Vitara and Hyryder.
Featuring an underpinning from the CMF-B platform, this SUV claims to be more efficient with newer technologies in place.
Renault Duster: Price Expected
The new-generation Renault Duster is expected to start at around Rs. 10 lakh in India. Final pricing will be unveiled at its official launch on January 26, 2026.
Renault Duster: Features
- Bold Exterior Design: Y-shaped LED headlights, vertical grille with rugged cues and muscular wheel arches give the SUV a strong road presence.
- LED Lighting: Modern LED daytime running lights and distinctive rear LED tail lamps enhance visibility and style.
- Functional Roof Rails: Roof rails not only add to the SUV’s aesthetic but also support utility for outdoor gear.
- Wheel Arch Cladding: Reinforced cladding and robust bumpers underline the Duster’s adventurous character.
- Comfortable Cabin: Expect a well-appointed interior with ergonomic seats, quality materials and spacious seating for long journeys.
- Infotainment System: A touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration keeps connectivity seamless.
- Safety Suite: Features may include multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors/camera and stability control for secure driving.
- Climate Control: Automatic climate control ensures comfort for all occupants in varying weather conditions.
- Convenience Features: Keyless entry, cruise control, electric mirrors and adjustable steering enhance driver comfort.
- Powertrain Options: Internationally offered with mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid engine and possibly petrol-LPG options, balancing efficiency and performance.
Renault Duster: Competitors
The new Duster will compete with other popular compact SUVs in India, including:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Maruti Grand Vitara
- Volkswagen Taigun
- Honda Elevate
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
If Renault offers a hybrid powertrain, the Duster will also rival other efficient hybrid SUVs like the Maruti Grand Vitara Hybrid and Toyota Hyryder.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on official announcements and publicly available information and may change as Renault releases full specifications.