Renault is returning to the midsize SUV space with an iconic nameplate – the Duster. The Duster was responsible for making midsize SUVs popular in India before the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and Tata Harrier took over. Renault had to retire the Duster, but in 2026, the French automaker is bringing back the Duster to expand its lineup beyond the Kwid and Kiger in India, hoping to dominate the space.
Recent spy shots have confirmed that the next-generation Renault Duster is currently undergoing rigorous testing on Indian roads ahead of its highly anticipated launch on January 26, 2026. The current generation Duster has already been on sale in global markets, and India will be getting it now.
The 2026 Renault Duster will be entering a market where several new midsize SUVs have just stepped in. The market is currently buzzing with the trendy new Tata Sierra, the efficient and stylish Maruti Suzuki Victoris, and the tech-loaded 2026 Kia Seltos. These new SUVs, along with the existing options in the market, could make the purchase decision tougher for you.
If you are planning to buy a mid-size SUV in the next few months, here are 5 reasons why you should hold onto your chequebook for the Republic Day 2026 launch.
1. The legendary AWD capability
While the Kia Seltos and Maruti Victoris are primarily front-wheel-drive city crawlers, the 2026 Duster, built on the heavily localised CMF-B platform, is expected to feature a dedicated 4×4 or AWD system on select models. Unlike its rivals, which use electronic traction modes, the Duster’s suspension geometry is designed for off-road articulation, making it the only choice for those who want a rough-n-tough weekend adventurer rather than just a ‘mall-roader’.
2. European build quality
The spy shots reveal a rugged, muscular stance with Y-shaped LED DRLs and thick body cladding. While the Tata Sierra focuses on an avant-garde, lounge-like interior, the Duster seems to be built to take some beating. For Indian roads filled with potholes and unpredictable terrain, the Duster’s legendary ride quality, which arguably redefined the segment a decade ago, is expected to return in a more refined, European avatar.
3. Advanced hybrid powertrains
The Duster 2026 won’t just be about muscle. Global specs (and testing mules) suggest a 1.6-litre strong hybrid engine producing 138 hp and a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol with a 48V mild-hybrid system. This puts it directly in competition with the Maruti Victoris’ fuel efficiency while offering significantly more torque and punch than the naturally aspirated engines found in the base variants of the Kia Seltos and Grand Vitara.
4. The Duster could be priced competitively
Renault India has made its name for offering its vehicles at competitive prices. The Duster for 2026 is expected to carry a price range of Rs 11 lakh-Rs 19 lakh, depending on the variant you choose. However, you can expect the lower-spec variants to undercut the Maruti Victoris, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra and Grand Vitara SUVs in a bid to draw more crowd to its showrooms.
5. Bold new design
The new 2026 Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra and Maruti Victoris follow a familiar design language seen in most SUVs today, i.e., a luxurious big SUV with fancy elements not suitable for off-road conditions. The 2026 Duster, however, brings a radical ‘Bigster-inspired’ design — sharp, polygonal wheel arches, C-pillar-mounted door handles, and a notched rear spoiler. The same goes for the interiors, which impart a ‘rough-ready’ design.
