The upcoming Renault Duster is among the most anticipated launches in India’s SUV space. With the third-generation Duster set to enter production by September 2025 and a market launch slated for early 2026, Renault is preparing to take on heavyweights like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos with a comprehensive range, innovative powertrains, and aggressive market timing. The all-new Duster comes at a time when the mid-size SUV segment is booming, and Renault is keen to re-establish its stronghold.
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Production, Launch & Roadmap
- Production Start: September 2025 (India)
- Market Launch: First half of 2026 (expected Q1)
- Hybrid Launch: Within 12 months of petrol variant’s introduction—likely before rival hybrid models from Hyundai and Kia
- 7-Seater Duster (Boreal/Bigster): Expected in late 2026 or 2027, following the 5-seater variant.
Renault’s aggressive timeline places the upcoming Renault Duster ahead of its primary segment rivals in introducing full-hybrid and three-row SUV options.
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Powertrain Options for the Upcoming Renault Duster
Renault aims to cover the needs of a wide spectrum of buyers with its new Duster:
- 1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol
- Expected on lower trims
- Reliable and fuel-efficient
- 1.0L Turbo Petrol or 1.3L Turbo Petrol
- For mid and upper variants
- Delivers punchy performance for city and highway drives
- Strong Hybrid (Global Specs)
- In Europe: 1.6L, 4-cylinder petrol + 2 electric motors + 1.2kWh battery
- Combined output: 140bhp
- Capable of electric-only running for city efficiency
- Indian version expected to closely follow this configuration
- CNG and Electric Options Under Study
- CNG may be available as an aftermarket fitment (with partners like Minda Westport)
- An all-electric Duster is under evaluation, as Renault eyes India’s expanding EV segment.
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Key Features & Timeline
| Variant/Feature | Expected India Launch | Key Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Standard 1.5L Petrol | Early 2026 (Q1) | ~100–110bhp, 5–6MT/CVT |
| Turbo Petrol | Early 2026 | 1.0L/1.3L, up to 150bhp, AT/MT |
| Strong Hybrid | By early-mid 2027 | 1.6L with 2 motors, 140bhp, e-motor assist |
| 7-Seater (Boreal) | Late 2026–2027 | Extended wheelbase, ~7 seats |
| CNG Option | With/after launch | Retrofit, depends on demand |
| Electric Duster | Future (TBA) | Under evaluation |
Hybrid Advantage & Segment Shake-Up
One of the biggest highlights of the upcoming Renault Duster is its hybrid option, set to debut before even Hyundai or Kia’s much-awaited hybrid SUVs. Internationally, the Duster hybrid (sold as Dacia Duster) uses a smart self-charging system—similar to Toyota’s Hyryder hybrid—enabling impressive efficiency, lower emissions, and automatic electric driving in city conditions.
Key hybrid facts:
- 94bhp petrol engine + 2 electric motors
- Smooth, refined city driving; lower running costs
- Reduces ownership cost and environmental impact
This hybrid Duster will give Renault a crucial first-mover advantage in India’s volume hybrid SUV space, capturing buyers who value fuel economy but aren’t ready for a full EV.
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7-Seater Duster and Nissan Derivatives: Expanding the Family
Renault is also developing a 7-seater version (internally codenamed “Boreal” globally and “Bigster” for some markets), expected to follow the 5-seater by late 2026 or 2027. Nissan, Renault’s alliance partner, will launch its own versions with unique features, bringing fresh competition and more choices for Indian customers.
CNG & Electric Renault Duster: A Step Ahead on Green Versatility
While not officially confirmed, Renault is evaluating CNG and EV versions of the Duster to future-proof the SUV for the Indian market:
- CNG: Likely retrofitted with trusted partners for buyers focussed on affordability and running cost.
- Electric (EV): Concept proposed; could make Duster one of the market’s most versatile nameplates.
Segment-Leading Features & Positioning
- Rugged exterior, grown dimensions, bolder design inspired by Dacia Duster global version
- Enhanced safety, infotainment (likely 10-inch+ touchscreen), 360-degree camera, ADAS in higher trims
- 7-seater version to compete with Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV700
- Petrol turbo and hybrid models to battle Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, among others
Conclusion
With multiple powerful petrol engines, strong-hybrid capability, a 7-seater on the way, and future-ready CNG and EV plans, the upcoming Renault Duster represents Renault’s strongest-ever move in India’s SUV segment. Its early hybrid launch and robust pricing strategy could make it a game-changer—delivering both value and future-focused engineering for Indian families and enthusiast drivers alike.