The Renault Duster is finally preparing for its long-awaited comeback in an all-new third-generation form, and testing activity has now intensified across the country. Multiple sightings confirm that Renault is in the final stretch before its official India debut on 26 January 2026, with the market launch expected soon after. The new Duster arrives at a time when the mid-size SUV segment is more competitive than ever, aiming to reclaim the space it once dominated against rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Tata Sierra, Toyota Hyryder and several upcoming models.
The 2026 Duster is built on the CMF-B modular platform and stays true to the global Dacia Duster in terms of proportions and stance, while receiving India-specific enhancements. The exterior design has taken a major step forward with a more muscular, rugged and contemporary identity. A redesigned front fascia features Renault’s latest grille and logo treatment, accompanied by polygonal LED headlamps that carry the brand’s new Y-shaped lighting signature. The SUV adopts a stronger, more athletic character through sculpted wheel arches, thick body cladding, chunkier bumpers, refreshed alloy wheels, roof rails and neatly integrated C-pillar-mounted rear door handles. At the rear, Y-shaped LED tail-lamps and a sharply raked rear windshield give the Duster a modern yet familiar appeal, retaining its tough silhouette while elevating its premiumness.
Inside, Renault is expected to deliver the most significant cabin upgrade the Duster has ever received. Although the interior has not been fully revealed, early information suggests a completely modernised layout with a larger touchscreen interface, wireless smartphone integration, a wireless charger, upgraded materials and enhanced comfort features. Renault is expected to offer ventilated front seats, a multi-airbag safety suite, connected tech and a more sophisticated instrument cluster. The new Duster could also receive an ADAS package, likely a combination of Level 1 and partial Level 2 features, depending on variant positioning. These improvements reflect Renault’s intention to bring the Duster back as a premium yet accessible offering in its segment.
The 2026 Duster will be a petrol-only SUV for India, marking a clear departure from the diesel-led legacy of previous generations. Renault plans to introduce two turbo-petrol engine options, starting with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol for the entry variants and moving up to the more powerful 1.3-litre turbo-petrol, expected to deliver around 156 bhp for the higher trims. Both manual and automatic transmissions are anticipated. Renault is also evaluating additional options for the future, which may include a strong-hybrid powertrain as well as a factory-fitted CNG version developed specifically for the Indian market.
Pricing will play a decisive role in the Duster’s comeback strategy, and Renault is expected to position it aggressively. The base variants are likely to be priced in the ₹11–12 lakh range, while the top-end petrol automatic versions could sit around ₹20 lakh ex-showroom. The brand is relying heavily on the Duster’s strong recall value, modernised design, enhanced feature list and competitive pricing to regain momentum in the mid-size SUV market.
The return of the Duster marks one of Renault’s most important product launches in recent years, and as testing continues at full pace, anticipation among SUV buyers continues to grow.
check out:2026 Renault Duster Testing at Full Swing Ahead of January Launch
