As the compact SUV segment continues to register robust growth, delaying new-gen Duster’s launch seems a bit surprising
Last year in November, the new-gen Duster was spotted on road tests in India. It was expected that the new model will be introduced in India in 2025. However, as per latest information, the new-gen Duster’s launch is likely rescheduled for 2026.
New Duster India launch timeline
During a recent interaction, Managing Director of Renault India, Venkatram Mamillapalle, talked about the company’s plans in 2025. Although new-gen Duster launch was not specifically discussed, other information shared by Venkatram provided some strong clues. One of the key developments in 2025 will be the introduction of the next-gen Triber and Kiger in India. Taken together, Triber and Kiger contribute around 80% to the company’s overall sales. The new-gen models are expected to get sharper styling and new features to improve their VFM positioning.
Venkatram also stated that an all-new SUV will be launched in 2026. This is likely to be the new-gen Duster that is on sale in multiple international markets. The India-spec model could have some differences across equipment list and powertrain options. However, the sporty new look of 3rd-gen Duster will be the same for India in most parts.
As may be recalled, it was Renault Duster that had popularized compact SUVs in the Indian market. The first-gen model was introduced in India in 2012 and it continued in the same format till 2022. 2nd-gen Duster was launched in 2017, but it was never introduced in India. With an ageing first-gen model and better equipped rival offerings, Duster sales in India had taken a hit. The SUV was discontinued in India in 2022.
New-gen Duster – Powerful presence
3rd-gen Duster has undergone a major overhaul in terms of its design and styling. A strong road presence has been achieved with features such as a rugged bumper and thick body cladding. New door trims, roof rails and uniquely designed alloys further enhance the overall look and feel. Some distinctive features are also noticeable such as the Y-shaped lighting elements at the front and rear. The Y-shaped theme can also be seen inside the cabin on the AC vents.
Updates on the inside include a new 3-spoke steering wheel. Key features available with the new-gen Duster sold internationally include a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. New Duster has cruise control, wireless phone charger, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and premium Arkamys 3D sound system. Safety has been improved with the addition of ADAS. Standard safety kit includes six airbags, tyre pressure monitoring system and an electronic parking brake.
Performance, specs
3rd-gen Duster has new powertrain options. The mild hybrid variant utilizes a 130 PS 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine in combination with a 48 V mild hybrid setup. The strong hybrid model combines a 140 PS 1.6-litre petrol engine and two electric motors. An LPG option is also available with the 1.2-litre petrol engine. It generates 100 PS and is mated to a 6-speed transmission. It remains to be seen what powertrain options are made available with India-spec new-gen Renault Duster.
