2026 Renault Duster Makes Comeback in India with New Design, Hybrid Tech and ADAS

More than a decade after it helped establish the compact SUV segment in India, the Renault Duster is making a comeback. The SUV was has been unveiled in India, with its official launch expected in March and deliveries starting in April.

After a three-year gap, the nameplate returns in an all-new form for 2026, promising major upgrades across the board. Renault has now revealed key details about the new-generation Duster, including its design, features, and engine options.

The India-spec Renault Duster differs from the global model with several market-specific design changes. It features a trapezoidal grille with chrome accents, full LED headlamps, and bold ‘Duster’ lettering in place of the Renault logo.

Top variants ride on 18-inch alloy wheels, while the rear gets connected LED tail lamps. The SUV measures 4,343 mm in length, 1,813 mm in width, and 1,659 mm in height. Buyers will have six colour options to choose from, along with an optional dual-tone finish featuring a gloss black roof and spoiler.

Inside, the cabin has been completely revamped and now feels far more premium and tech-focused than before. The dashboard is dominated by dual 10-inch screens, offering built-in Google services for navigation, apps, and connectivity.

Other highlights include ambient lighting, ventilated and powered front seats, dual-zone climate control, an Arkamys sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. With a wheelbase of 2,657 mm, rear-seat space is expected to be generous. Boot capacity stands at 518 litres, complemented by a powered tailgate.

The 2026 Renault Duster will be offered with multiple petrol engine options. The entry-level variant uses a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing around 99 bhp and 160 Nm, paired with a manual gearbox. A more powerful 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine delivers up to 158 bhp and 280 Nm and is available with either a six-speed manual or a dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Renault will also introduce a strong hybrid version later in the year. Known as the E-Tech 160, it combines a 1.8-litre petrol engine with two electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery pack, paired with an eight-speed automatic. Renault claims the SUV can operate in electric mode for up to 80 percent of city driving, with a total range of nearly 1,000 km.

Built on Renault Group’s modular RGMP platform, the new Duster offers a ground clearance of 212 mm, along with approach and departure angles of 26.9 degrees and 34.7 degrees, respectively.

Safety is a major focus, with Renault stating the SUV has been engineered to achieve a five-star crash rating. Features such as adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, six airbags, and Level 2 ADAS are also on offer.