The Icon Returns: New-Gen Renault Duster Unveiled in India
Renault India has officially brought back its most legendary nameplate, debuting the all-new 2026 Duster on Republic Day. This third-generation SUV is built on the advanced CMF-B platform, promising a significant leap in safety, technology, and driving dynamics compared to its predecessor.
Also Read | US Hints at Removing 25% Tariffs on India as Russian Oil Imports Drop
1. Launch Timeline & Pre-bookings
Renault has officially opened the order books, offering early-bird perks for those ready to skip the queue.
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Pre-booking Amount: ₹21,000 (Refundable).
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Price Announcement: Scheduled for mid-March 2026.
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Expected Price: Competitive range of ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom).
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Delivery Schedule: * Turbo Petrol variants: Deliveries begin in April 2026.
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Strong Hybrid variants: Deliveries slated for the Diwali 2026 festive season.
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Exclusive “R Pass”: Pre-booking grants an “R Pass,” providing priority delivery, price protection, and a chance to visit the factory to see the Duster being manufactured.
Also Read | US Hints at Removing 25% Tariffs on India as Russian Oil Imports Drop
2. Performance: Three New Powertrains
Renault has ditched diesel entirely, focusing on a mix of efficiency and high-performance turbo-petrol engines.
| Engine Option | Power / Torque | Transmission | Key Highlight |
| 1.8L E-Tech Hybrid | 160 bhp / 172 Nm | Multi-mode Auto | 80% EV mode in city; top-tier efficiency. |
| 1.3L Turbo TCe 160 | 160 bhp / 280 Nm | 6-speed MT / DCT | Most powerful in its segment. |
| 1.0L Turbo TCe 100 | 100 bhp / 160 Nm | 6-speed MT | Efficient choice for urban commutes. |
Also Read | US Hints at Removing 25% Tariffs on India as Russian Oil Imports Drop
3. Massive Tech & Feature Overhaul
The interior is a complete departure from the rugged, basic cabins of the past, moving toward a premium, tech-focused layout.
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Dual-Screen Setup: A 10.1-inch floating touchscreen with Google built-in and a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display.
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Luxury Comforts: Panoramic sunroof (first time for Duster), ventilated front seats with 6-way power adjustment, and dual-zone climate control.
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Safety & Off-road: Equipped with Level 2 ADAS (17 features), a 360-degree camera, and 6 airbags as standard. While AWD wasn’t confirmed at the reveal, the 212mm ground clearance and hill-descent control maintain its rugged DNA.
Also Read | US Hints at Removing 25% Tariffs on India as Russian Oil Imports Drop
