The 2026 Renault Duster marks Renault’s strong comeback in the midsize SUV segment in India with a rugged yet modern look. It retains the iconic SUV silhouette but gets a sharper and more muscular stance with a prominent trapezoidal grille featuring the DUSTER badge, Y-shaped LED daytime running lights, full LED headlamps and tail lamps, black body cladding, functional roof rails, and stylish 18-inch alloy wheels that enhance its bold road presence.
Engine & Powertrain
The 2026 Duster offers a versatile lineup of petrol and hybrid powertrains aimed at balancing performance and efficiency. The range includes a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing around 100 PS and 160 Nm of torque paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine with about 163 PS and 280 Nm available with both a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT), and a 1.8-litre strong hybrid powertrain that combines a petrol engine with electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery, delivering around 160 PS with good fuel efficiency and up to 80 % of city driving possible in electric mode.
Mileage & Efficiency
Official mileage figures for the 2026 model are not yet released, but hybrid technology in the Duster promises significantly better efficiency in city driving compared with traditional petrol engines due to its electric assist capabilities. The petrol turbo variants are expected to deliver competitive fuel economy for a midsize SUV with strong torque and performance.
Interiors & Features
Inside, the new Duster is tuned for comfort and technology. The cabin sports a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable and ventilated front seats, wireless phone charger and Arkamys audio system. The interior also gets premium touches like dual-tone upholstery with contrast stitching and a driver-focused layout, bringing a modern SUV feel.
Safety & Technology
Safety is a priority with features such as Level-2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), 360-degree camera, six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), ISOFIX child seat anchors, and disc brakes on all wheels. These technologies help enhance driver confidence and occupant safety on highways and urban roads alike.
Price & Market Position
Pre-bookings for the 2026 Renault Duster have opened with a token amount of ₹21,000, and Renault is expected to reveal prices in mid-March 2026 with deliveries starting soon after for turbo petrol variants, and hybrid models arriving around Diwali 2026. Prices are anticipated to start in the range of ₹9–10 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base turbo petrol, with higher variants and hybrid trims possibly going up to the ₹18–22 lakh zone on-road.
Final Verdict
The Renault Duster 2026 returns as a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment with modern design, multiple powertrain options including a hybrid, advanced safety tech, premium comfort features, and competitive pricing. It aims to rival mainstream SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, offering a blend of capability, comfort and cutting-edge technology that could appeal to buyers seeking rugged style with refined features.