Renault Duster Debut Today: All You Need To Know

Based on the CMF-B platform, the new Renault Duster is based on the Dacia Bigster concept that made its debut in 2021.

Renault will unveil the highly-anticipated all-new Duster in India today. After skipping the second generation model, Renault is bringing the third generation Duster to India after the first-gen model was discontinued in 2022. The latest iteration of the compact SUV has been in the works for a long time.

Over the last year or so, test mules of the third-gen Duster have been spotted testing frequently. Launched in 2012, the original Renault Duster played a key role in popularising the monocoque SUV configuration, blending car-like comfort with rugged capability. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming third-gen Duster ahead of its debut later today.

Renault Duster: Exterior Design

The India-spec Renault Duster will be largely similar to the international-spec model barring a few visual differences. For instance, the India-spec Duster will feature sleeker LED headlamps paired with eyebrow-shaped LED daytime running lamps (DRLs). Recent spy images also indicated the presence of a camera module positioned near the centre of the front grille, suggesting the likely inclusion of a 360-degree camera system.

Below the grille, the front bumper incorporates a three-slat air intake, a wide lower air dam, and redesigned fog lamps on either side. Internationally, the Duster is expected to adopt a more streamlined front bumper with pronounced cladding, larger air intakes and circular fog lamps, while the sculpted bonnet further enhances its muscular stance.

Spy images have also suggested that the model will be equipped with vertically oriented LED taillamps in place of the distinctive V-shaped units offered on the global version. Another subtle revision is the roof-mounted spoiler, which features a notched design and appears marginally different from the international-spec component.

The India-spec Duster is also expected to offer a connected LED tail-lamp arrangement, a feature not available on the European-market model. At the same time, several exterior design elements are likely to be carried over from the international version, including pronounced wheel-arch cladding, a shark-fin antenna, roof rails, a rear washer and wiper, and a steeply raked windshield.

Renault Duster: Interiors & Features

Although its interiors have not yet been officially revealed, the India-spec Duster is expected to feature a contemporary yet functional cabin layout, closely aligned with the international model. The next-generation Duster is likely to be equipped with a comprehensive suite of modern features, including a 10-inch freestanding touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, wireless smartphone charging, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and a premium six-speaker audio system.

Renault Duster: Powertrain

In international markets, the third-gen Renault Duster is offered with a range of powertrain options. These include a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system producing 128.2 bhp, along with a 1.6-litre strong-hybrid petrol setup that incorporates two electric motors and a 1.2 kWh battery, delivering a combined output of 138 bhp.

Also READ: How The Renault Duster Pioneered The Compact SUV Segment In India

The line-up also features a 1.0-litre petrol-LPG engine producing 98.6 bhp, available with a six-speed transmission and an all-wheel-drive configuration. However, Renault has yet to confirm the engine and transmission options for the India-spec model.

Renault Duster: Expected Price & Rivals

Upon launch, the new Renault Duster will lock horns with a long list of compact SUVs such as Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Victoris, Toyota Urban Cruiser HyRyder, Tata Sierra, Curvv, Honda Elevate, Citroen Aircross, MG Astor, Skoda Kushaq, and Volkswagen Taigun. We expect the new Duster to be offered at a starting price of around ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom).