Top 5 Things About The Renault Duster

Published: Sunday, September 21, 2025, 18:31 [IST]

Renault is set to revive the iconic Duster in India with its new-generation model. The launch is expected later this year or in early 2026. Test mules of both the 5-seater Duster and its larger 7-seater sibling—known internationally as the Bigster have been sighted several times across the country.

Familiar, But With Local Tweaks

The new Renault Duster features signature V-shaped tail lamps along with deeply contoured tailgate, rather than a conventional flat panel. This adds depth and sophistication to the rear. Other familiar details include thick wheel arch cladding, a shark-fin antenna, roof rails, a rear washer and wiper, and a raked windshield.

That said, we expect the India-spec model to feature minor styling changes. In fact, we expect front and rear bumper designs to be slightly different to international models suit Indian taste.

Overall Design Influence

The new-generation Duster is built on a bolder design philosophy. Its upright fascia, Y-shaped LED lighting elements, rugged bull-bar-inspired grille, and sculpted bonnet give it a tougher, more modern appearance. The side profile sports polygonal wheel arches, sporty door trims, integrated turn indicators on the ORVMs, blacked-out B-pillars, and body-coloured handles.

The distinctive rear door handles, mounted on the C-pillars, remain a signature touch. Internationally, the Duster is available in several vibrant colour options, which could also make their way to the Indian market.

Powertrain Choices

Globally, the Duster is offered with multiple powertrain options, including full-hybrid, mild-hybrid, and bi-fuel variants. The full-hybrid system produces 150hp and can manage up to 80% of urban driving on pure electric power. Paired with an e-shifter automatic transmission, it claims to reduce fuel consumption by up to 40%.

For buyers prioritising cost savings, the bi-fuel version runs on petrol and LPG, producing 100hp and offering fuel savings of up to 30%, also paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Renault has not yet confirmed which of these powertrains will be offered in India.

Tech

Inside, the new-gen Duster offers a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 7-inch digital driver's display, wireless smartphone mirroring, over-the-air software updates, and dual-zone climate control.

Safety Features

Safety has also been enhanced, with six airbags, electronic stability control, a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. Advanced driver-assistance systems such as autonomous emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring are part of the package in global models.

DriveSpark Thinks

Although the Duster (global) has achieved a 3-star Euro NCAP crash rating, Renault is expected to fine-tune the Indian-spec version to meet local safety norms and consumer expectations. With its blend of rugged styling, modern technology, and hybrid efficiency, the new Duster aims to reclaim its place as one of India's favourite SUVs.