The icon's History

• The new Renault Duster 2026 (launching around January 26 in India) will feature multiple variants tailored for different budgets and needs, primarily petrol-powered with turbo options. 

  The Renault Duster, an iconic SUV that revolutionized India's compact SUV segment since its 2012 debut, makes a triumphant return with its third-generation model unveiled on January 26, 2026-Republic Day. 

  Renault's teaser proclaimed "the icon is back," evoking nostalgia for the rugged bestseller that sold over 7 lakh units in India before discontinuation in 2022. 

  This relaunch marks Renault's first major new product in five years, aligning with its "Renault.rethink" strategy and International Game Plan 2027.

Launch Highlights

• The Chennai reveal livestream at 6:30 PM,26th January 2026 IST showcased a boxier, assertive design on the CMF-B platform, blending retro toughness with modern flair. Key visuals included Y-shaped LED headlights, a bull bar like grille, sculpted hood, robust cladding, roof rails, and V-shaped taillights mirroring global Dacia Duster aesthetics but upmarketed for India with premium trims. 

Features and Tech

• Inside, a tech-forward cabin boasts a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, 7-inch digital cluster, wireless charging, 360-degree camera, and ventilated seats in higher variants. Safety shines with 6 airbags, ADAS (adaptive cruise, auto braking), ESC, and hill-hold. Trims like Zen, Emotion, and Extreme cater from ₹10-18 lakh ex-showroom, targeting value-conscious buyers.

   

Market Impact

• Facing fiercer competition from Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV700, and refreshed foes, the Duster leverages its "icon" status-much like Tata Sierra's revival-for emotional pull. Renault aims to reclaim midsize SUV share, boosting volumes via affordability and versatility.Deliveries start Q2 2026, promising to reignite the Duster legacy.