Renault Duster Vs Skoda Kushaq Facelift Base Trim Comparison - Best SUV Under ₹11 Lakh?

Published: Monday, March 23, 2026, 15:16 [IST]

The compact SUV segment in India is heating up with the return of the OG C-SUV, the Renault Duster, and the arrival of the updated Skoda Kushaq facelift. Both SUVs are competitively priced and offer different engine and transmission options.

Renault Duster Vs Skoda Kushaq Facelift Base Variant Comparison

The Renault Duster Authentic serves as the entry-level variant of the iconic SUV, while Skoda offers the Kushaq Classic+ as its base trim. In this comparison, we evaluate these entry-level variants to determine which compact SUV delivers better value and performance for its price.

Base Variant Design

Looking at the exterior design, both base variants feature minimal equipment and a relatively simple appearance. The Renault Duster retains its iconic silhouette, featuring 17-inch steel wheels, sleek LED DRLs, and a rugged design language. It also gets connected LED tail lamps with 'Duster' lettering, black body cladding, and a sporty roof spoiler. At the front, it features signature Duster branding, while the sides carry Renault badging.

The Skoda Kushaq, on the other hand, appears more premium even in its base trim. It features LED headlamps, a blacked-out grille and bumpers, 16-inch alloy wheels, connected LED tail lamps, sequential indicators, an illuminated Skoda logo, and black roof rails. Overall, the Kushaq facelift offers a more feature-rich and premium design in its base variant.

Base Variants Engine Options

Renault offers the Duster base (Authentic) trim with a 1.0L TCe 100 three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. It produces 100 PS of power and 163 Nm of torque and is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. It is offered only with front-wheel drive (2WD).

The Skoda Kushaq comes with a 1.0L TSI petrol engine that produces 115 PS of power and 178 Nm of torque. It is available with both a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission. The manual variant delivers a claimed fuel efficiency of 19.66 km/l (ARAI), while the automatic returns 19.09 km/l (ARAI).

Base Safety Features

Renault Duster - Authentic	Skoda Kushaq Facelift - Classic+
6 Airbags Auto Headlamps Traction Control Corner Stability Control 3-point seatbelts Impact Sensing Door Unlock Speed Sensing Door Lock Burglar Alarm Central Locking Speed Alert Warning Rollover Sensor Follow Me Home Headlamps Hill Start Assist ABS ISOFIX TPMs ABS with EBD Rear Parking Assist Power windows Front Disc Brakes	25 Active and Passive Safety Features Rain Sensing Wipers Rear Wiper with Defogger Front Disc Brakes Auto IRVM Electric ORVM 16-inch Alloy Wheels All power windows Hill Hold Assist ABS with EBD Traction Control Electronic Stability Control Brake Disc Wiping 3-Point Seatbelts ISOFIX child seat anchors on rear seats 5 Star Safety Rating Cruise Control (AT)

Both SUVs offer strong safety features right from the base variant. However, the Skoda Kushaq facelift stands out with additional practical features, including a rear wiper, rain-sensing wipers, a rear defogger, alloy wheels, all-wheel disc brakes, auto-dimming IRVM, and electrically adjustable ORVMs.

Technology & Offerings

Renault Duster - Authentic	Skoda Kushaq Facelift - Classic+
7-inch TFT cluster Glovebox Illumination Centre console with Cup Holders 60:40 Foldable rear seats Rear AC vents Tilt & Telescopic Steering Wheel Driver Seat Height adjust Coat Hook Luggage Lamps One Touch LED room lights	Single-pane electric sunroof 7-inch touch screen infotainment system 6 speakers Climatronic Auto AC control Sequential Turn Indicators Connectivity Rear AC Vents Air Purifier Paddle Shifters MID Digital Screen Boot Lamp 12V Charging socket

The Skoda Kushaq facelift offers additional technology and features, including an infotainment system, a multi-information display (MID), paddle shifters, an air purifier, connectivity features, and a 6-speaker audio system.

Pricing Comparison

Car	Price (ex-showroom)
Renault Duster	10.29 Lakh
Skoda Kushaq Facelift	10.69 Lakh

Both compact SUVs are aggressively priced, but when comparing the base variants purely on value, the Skoda Kushaq Classic+ clearly has the upper hand. The Kushaq offers more essential features, such as infotainment, rear wiper, alloy wheels, and automatic climate control, which the Duster base variant misses. In addition, the 1.0L TSI engine is more powerful and better refined compared to Renault's 1.0L turbo-petrol unit.

For buyers looking for maximum value, features, and a more polished driving experience, the Skoda Kushaq facelift base variant is the stronger choice. However, if you prioritise rugged design, SUV character, and the legacy of an iconic nameplate, the Renault Duster still holds emotional appeal and remains a worthy option.