Renault Duster launched with the largest bootspace in the segment, returning to India as a fully re-engineered, India-focused mid-size SUV.
The third-generation Duster pairs rugged capability with modern connected systems and safety tech and headlines the segment with a massive 700-litre boot (measured to the roof), making it one of the most practical SUVs in its class.
What changed this time
Renault has redesigned the Duster from the ground up for India on the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP) a modular, localised architecture engineered for Indian usage patterns and extreme validation cycles.
Renault says nearly 90% of components for the India car were developed/validated specifically for India, including testing across temperature extremes and over 1 million kilometres of endurance validation.
The RGMP also supports multiple powertrains, ADAS and Google-based infotainment.
The Duster’s standout practical stat is its cargo volume:
518 litres up to the parcel shelf and up to 700 litres when loaded to the roof, which the company positions as segment-leading when compared to typical mid-size SUVs that offer roughly 400–500 litres.
That capacity seems to be a central selling point for families and adventure buyers.
Variants & launch editions
Renault has revealed an Iconic launch edition for India with unique styling cues (Himalayan-inspired side embellishers, yellow accenting, scuff plates and Mountain Jade leatherette in the cabin).For the Indian market, Renault has unveiled an Iconic launch edition of the Duster. This special edition features unique design elements, including Himalayan-inspired side embellishers, yellow accents, scuff plates, and an interior finished with Mountain Jade leatherette.
The OEM has confirmed that a broader variant line-up and exact trim names/prices will be disclosed at the official price reveal in mid-March 2026.
Until Renault publishes the full variant list, automakers and outlets are reporting that the Duster will be offered across multiple trims to cover value and feature-rich buyers but the only confirmed India-specific edition announced so far is the Iconic launch pack.
Powertrains: petrol turbo and a strong hybrid
Renault is offering a three-option powertrain strategy for India:
- Turbo TCe 100 – the entry turbo-petrol (manual) for cost-conscious buyers.
- Turbo TCe 160 – the performance petrol producing 163 PS and 280 Nm, available with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed wet-clutch DCT tuned for stop-start Indian traffic.
- Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 – a 1.8-litre petrol plus electric motor hybrid system with a 1.4 kWh battery, engineered to allow up to 80% electric-only driving in city conditions.
Design, dimensions & off-road geometry
The India-spec Duster is larger and more SUV-like than many compact rivals
- Length: 4,346 mm.
- Wheelbase: 2,657 mm.
- Ground clearance: 212 mm
- Approach / departure angles: 26.9° / 34.7°.
- Wheels: 18-inch diamond-cut alloys.
These figures keep the Duster credible for light off-road use and rugged rural roads.
Interior tech & connectivity
Renault has equipped the Duster with its OpenR Link infotainment suite (10.1-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in), a 10.25-inch digital driver display with map replication, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay and over 60 connected features via the MYR app. Renault also highlights OTA update capability and Google Profile support that can recall personal settings such as ambient lighting and driver preferences.
Comfort features on higher trims include ventilated six-way power front seats, dual-zone climate control with PM2.5 filter and a panoramic electric sunroof.
The cabin layout is described as “fighter-jet inspired” with a raised centre console and an electronic e-shifter.
Safety & ADAS
The Duster will offer up to 17 ADAS functions (adaptive cruise, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind-spot avoidance, traffic-sign recognition, adaptive high beam, etc.) and a comprehensive passive safety package including multiple airbags, ESC, ISOFIX anchors and hill descent control with 35 standard safety features listed across higher trims. Exact ADAS availability will vary by variant.
Bookings, pricing & delivery timeline (what’s official vs reported)
- Official booking: Renault opened pre-bookings using an R Pass priced at ₹21,000 customers can reserve the vehicle by paying this amount.
- Official timing: Renault says prices will be announced in mid-March 2026, petrol variant deliveries will begin in April 2026, and the Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 is expected around Diwali 2026.
On pricing: Renault has not published final prices. Multiple Indian automotive outlets and data aggregators project an entry-level starting price in the approximate ₹10–12 lakh (ex-showroom) band,
with top hybrid variants potentially reaching higher depending on equipment (some reports project up to ₹18–20 lakh for fully loaded hybrids).
These are market estimates derived from segment positioning and competitor pricing not official Renault figures.
Who should buy it?
Buyers who prioritise cargo flexibility, real-world practicality and a strong tech/safety package will find the Duster compelling , the 700-litre roof-to-roof capacity is genuinely useful for families, weekenders and small businesses that regularly move bulky loads. The strong-hybrid option also positions the Duster for urban users seeking lower running costs.
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