Renault launches new Duster at Rs 10.29 lakh; SUV makes a comeback

The all-new third-generation Duster is a key proponent of Renault’s bid to re-establish its presence in the sub-compact SUV segment. Going by the starting price tag of Rs 10.29 lakh (Ex-Showroom), Renault has seemingly left no stone unturned to attain its previous reign in the segment. The Duster nameplate was discontinued in the year 2022. In its latest iteration, the Duster has been based on the RGMP platform, leading to new design and powertrain options.

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While the official prices of the vehicle have been revealed recently, pre -bookings for prospective buyers were opened earlier with a token amount of Rs 21,000. Deliveries of the Turbo petrol variants will begin in April, and the strong Hybrid version will follow much later.

Prices for the all-new Duster

Prices for the all-new Duster start at Rs 10.29 lakh and go all the way up to Rs 18.49 lakh (Ex-showroom). The SUV will be available in five trim levels: Authentic, Evolution, Techno, Techno+, and Iconic.

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Beyond that, Renault is also offering an all-new subscription programme with the Duster; the plan will bundle on-road costs and servicing into a single monthly fee. Customers will have a choice between different tenures and mileage options. And at the end of the term, users can also plan to extend the subscription, return the vehicle, or purchase it.

Engine and gearbox options

The all-new Duster will be available with two Turbo petrol engine options as of now; these include a 1.0 litre Turbo petrol that produces close to 100hp and 160 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The Duster will also be available with a larger 1.3-liter turbo petrol engine that develops 163 hp and 280 Nm of torque. Buyers will have the option to choose between a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic with this engine.

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Renault also has plans to soon introduce a 1.8-litre strong Hybrid powertrain by Diwali 2026. The Hybrid version will be propelled by a 109hp producing petrol engine along with a 49 hp electric motor and a 20hp hybrid starter generator, along with a 1.4kwh battery. Total system output is rated to produce close to 160hp and close to 172 nm of peak torque.

Renault Duster 2026: Redesigned dashboard, touchscreen infotainment, and much more

The India-spec Duster gets a redesigned dashboard with a dual-screen setup. Key addons include a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, and a wireless phone charger. Beyond these, a panoramic sunroof, a powered tailgate, and a 9 way powered and ventilated front seats will enhance users' comfort. The SUV also gets a sliding front armrest with cupholders.

Renault duster safety features

The all-new Duster is now offered with six airbags as standard, disc brakes on all four wheels, and an electronic parking brake. Beyond that, the SUV also gets 360 camera , a tyre pressure monitoring system, and rear parking sensors. The all-new Duster will be offered with Level 2 ADAS along with a 5-star crash safety rating. To further ensure that users get extended support throughout the life of the vehicle, the new Duster comes with a warranty of 7 years. 1,50,000 km.

Comparison with Hyundai Creta and Grand Vitara

The upcoming launch of a strong Hybrid model helps gain an advantage over the existing top-tier competitors, such as the Creta, which does not have a strong Hybrid option. Based on performance The Hyundai Creta steps ahead with its ability to produce 160 PS of power and 253 Nm of Peak Torque. The Creta is available with three engine options that include a 1.5L Turbo GDI Petrol, A.5L MPi Petrol, and a 1.5LU2 CRDI diesel engine as well. The duster does not offer diesel engine options.

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Beyond the Hyundai Creta, the Duster will go toe-to-toe with the Suzuki Grand Vitara Hybrid. The Hybrid Suzuki is powered by a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine that combines a 177.6v lithium ion battery. The car churns out a total of 91 bhp and 122nm of torque with e-CVT transmission. The Grand Vitara has a slew of variants priced between Rs 16.99–19.72 lakh.