Renault India has officially announced the return of its legendary SUV, the Duster, setting the stage for a major revival in the brand's Indian portfolio. The company released the first teaser of the vehicle, confirming its official debut will coincide with Republic Day on January 26. This move marks the comeback of the nameplate that originally sparked the compact SUV revolution in the country back in 2012.
A Design Revolution Inspired by the Bigster
The teased images reveal a vehicle that is a complete departure from its predecessor, drawing inspiration from the Renault Bigster concept. The front fascia is dominated by a sleek LED headlight setup with distinctive Y-shaped LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and large air intakes. The muscular bonnet with aggressive lines and a chrome-accented grille adds to its bold stance.
From the side, the new Duster features squared-off wheel arches, roof rails, body cladding, and dual-tone alloy wheels, enhancing its rugged character. At the rear, a significant India-exclusive update is confirmed: full-width connected LED tail lamps with a V-shaped signature, a feature not seen on international Dacia or Renault Duster models.
Loaded Cabin and Advanced Tech Features
Step inside, and the dashboard presents a fresh, rugged layout with funky elements, including Y-shaped AC vent inserts. The cabin is packed with modern amenities, headlined by a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 7.0-inch fully digital instrument cluster.
The feature list is extensive and includes:
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Wireless phone charging
- Ventilated front seats
- Automatic climate control
- Arkamys 3D sound system with six speakers
Importantly, the new Duster will also debut with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These will include automatic emergency braking, detection for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcycles, traffic sign recognition, lane change warning and assist, and a rear parking assistant.
Powertrain Expectations and Fierce Competition
While global markets get multiple engine choices, including hybrid options, the Indian model is expected to be offered primarily with a turbo-petrol engine paired with both manual and automatic gearbox options. There is also strong anticipation for a 4x4 variant with terrain control modes, which would offer a ground clearance of 217 mm.
Upon launch, the new-generation Renault Duster will dive straight into the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment. Its key rivals will include:
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara & Vitara
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
- Skoda Kushaq & Volkswagen Taigun
- MG Astor
The original Duster is credited with creating the compact SUV space in India, which now accounts for nearly a quarter of the passenger vehicle market. Renault will be hoping that this thoroughly modern, feature-rich iteration can reignite the same excitement and reclaim a significant share of the segment it helped define.
