We’re Talking About Renault Duster- Yes, the name always comes with respect among Indian Car buyers. It forever changed the compact SUV landscape upon arrival many moons ago. It appealed to people for its robust underpinning, sensible nature and no-nonsense approach to tackling any road the world had to offer. Even the All-Wheel-Drive variant proved that a budget SUV could still handle rough roads and go off the beaten path. Despite being a great vehicle, over time Renault treated the Duster to updates that did not keep pace as newer competitors brought additional style and additional features to the mix. In the end, it was time for the iconic Duster to bow out of the Indian market.
The upside is that the Duster is back. Renault, however, appears quite serious in bringing the A-Game. The previous-generation 2025 Renault Duster made its world debut, and we drove it in the United Kingdom prior to the Indian launch, which is expected to take place in January 2026. The latest Duster returns with a completely new platform, new looks, hybrid engine tech and improved comfort. The million-dollar question is, can it once again charm the heart of the Indian SUV buyer?
This first drive review will give you all the details on what the new Duster brings to the table and whether it deserves to be a legend once again.
New Design and Modern Platform
The Renault Duster’s new design looks confident. It appears somewhat older and more muscular than its previous incarnation. The car has been developed by Renault under the new CMF-B platform. It uses a similar platform to that of other successful international models, such as the Renault Clio and the Nissan Juke. Tags for the result are a solid body, better driving comfort and a higher safety level.
Although it looks much larger than the previous model in photos, the SUV is actually just about the same size. Compared with the previous Duster, it’s just 2mm longer and 9mm wider. However, engineering has also gotten cleverer as the cabin is now much more spacious. This new platform has also contributed to lower levels of vibration and unwanted noise transmitted through the roads. Passengers will be able to enjoy a more relaxed experience.
This sporty, modern character of the Duster is thanks to a bold front design with sharp LED headlamps. Its tall stance, wide wheel arches and rugged underbody protection mean the Duster retains its adventurous spirit. The rear also bears a handsome design sporting eye-catching Y-tail lamps while on the move. In general here, the SUV maintains its butch persona, just with a far more modern look.
Hybrid Powertrain Brings A New Driving Experience
One of the most important updates in the new Duster is the transition to electrified engines. We tested the version featuring a 1.6-litre full-hybrid petrol engine rated at 140 bhp. It’s paired with two electric motors and a miniature 1.2 kWh battery. Actually, one of the motors drives the wheels while the other is a starter-generator. In this way, the car gets to start silently in electric mode every single time.
A 1.2-litre mild-hybrid engine is also available, producing 128 bhp. This version is a more plausible fit for India as mild-hybrid systems are cheaper, easier to maintain and work better with our fuel quality and driving conditions. The car benefits from the hybrid setup, ensuring seamless power delivery along with improved miles per litre, which appeals to Indian customers in these terms.
However, it should be noted that the Duster certainly hasn’t been stripped of power or performance due to the electrification. In fact, the hybrid aid makes the car feel snappier at urban speeds, without requiring the engine to work nearly as hard. The system selectively utilises petrol power and electric motors to maintain the utmost efficiency.
Interior Quality and Comfort Take A Big Step Forward
You immediately notice the improvement when you step into the new Duster. The cabin has a larger and more efficient layout. The passenger room is larger in both the front and back, and the trunk is bigger, too. The fresh layout will offer families some additional practicality.
Renault has pulled out the big guns in terms of material quality. It makes everything you touch seem more robust. The dashboard layout is tidy, modern, simple and reliable. The cabin seems to be constructed for long-term use. That said, when pitted against more premium rivals such as the Hyundai Creta or Kia Seltos, some materials remain a bit too basic. However, it suggests that Renault prioritises longevity over luxury here.
The model tested across the UK came with plenty of modern-day gadgets. It came fitted with a touchscreen infotainment system with smart connectivity options, ADAS- advanced driver assistance systems and a surround-view camera to assist in parking. The digital instrument cluster also lends a modern touch. Even here, the XUV700 comes with decent convenience features such as auto climate control and well-packaged cubby holes. But some of the more popular premium features are absent. The test model didn’t feature a sunroof, which I am sure might disappoint many Indian buyers, given how ‘the sunroofs’ are in demand in the Indian market. Power adjustment is not even offered for the driver’s seat! Renault is likely to provide additional complementary equipment on the India-specific variants, owing to the stiff competition.
Driving Comfort and Performance- Still A True Duster
What matters most with the new one is that it still feels like a Duster to drive. And that is a big compliment. The outgoing model had gained a reputation for delivering solid ride comfort and possessing brawn. Well, Renault has not removed that in the new version. In fact, it feels more seamless and polished now.
Harsh potholes and uneven surfaces are no problem for the suspension setup either. Passengers will NOT feel the bumps and potholes are absorbed comfortably as well. Even at fast speeds, the car feels planted and confidence-inspiring. It gives a feeling of control to the driver and instills confidence in the owner, a characteristic era, Duster lovers have all these years.
There are still some small areas for improvement. Inside the cabin, you can hear a small amount of road noise and tyre noise. Sometimes the hybrid version’s engine can sound a bit rough, especially when cold or when switching back from electric to petrol mode. The sound system and 360-degree camera are good , but not the best in the segment. These are minor constraints that can be improved on once the model enters other markets.
The full-hybrid is just a smooth operator when driving. During low-speed city driving, it attempts to utilise the electric power for as long as possible. The transition between electric and petrol power is apparent, but not jarring. It also ensures a very drivable car, even in crowded spaces, due to instant power delivery. The SUV accelerates with ease even on the freeway. Every day driving of note is where the hybrid system will pay dividends.
Fuel efficiency is also impressive. The Duster posted around 53 mpg in the UK test conditions, which converts to around 19 km/l. Heck, for an SOA, 4WD full-sized vehicle like this with some serious hardware under all that fab and about one inch of actual ground clearance, that’s a very good number. Mileage figures in India may well differ — thanks to different traffic and fuel, but expectations should be high.
Safety and Technology for Modern Buyers
Safety has become one of the top aspects influencing Indian buyers. To provide better crash protection, Renault has improved the crash protection using its stiffer CMF-B platform. The updated Duster also gets advanced safety tech, including electronic stability program, dual airbags, and ADAS features (depending on the variant and market), among many others. With this approach of safety, Renault can win the confidence of customers again.
Will We See AWD Again in India?
Now, the Duster AWD was one of the reasons why too many people wanted it in the past. It enabled those who loved adventures to explore loftily the untamed paths. This time around, if at all, Renault has not revealed whether any AWD will be sold in India. However, it is offered with AWD in global sedan versions. Since well-equipped SUVs typically have a large following, it could see a way to market based on demand for a capable SUV, and the Renault will likely launch it.
Expected Price, Rivals, and Market Position
One of the most competitive segments today in the Indian car market is the compact SUV. The new Renault Duster will compete against Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, MG Astor, and top-end variants of Tata Nexon, as well as Skoda Kushaq and VW Taigun. Renault really needs to play a smart game around pricing and features here to succeed.
Prices are yet to be revealed, but the new Duster could start from a price of about twelve lakh rupees and go up to seventeen and a half lakh rupees, depending on engine and model choice. If Renault is looking to rekindle the Duster’s lost popularity, a competitive price strategy will be key.
Final Words: A Strong Comeback with True Duster Spirit
Renault has returned at the perfect time with the Duster. Today’s customers are looking for updated features and modern equipment as well as quality improvements, technology development, and structural safety. The new Duster definitely fulfills all such expectations but does not forget the key aspects that made it so popular in the first place. As such, it’s still a little sordid, sensible, comfortable, and planted wherever it drives. That means the raw charm that made the Duster a success remains, albeit in a different guise, which provides it a direct identity amid the contemporary SUV brigade that has built some finesse.
Renault India should rip its head out of the sand and equip the new Duster with sensible features and engine options, while also not pricing it too high, and the new Duster could very well bring the famous brand back in line in the main small SUV playing field. This is not one of those new launches, however. The return of a king who once dominated the Indian roads. Well, from our first taste of the drive, this legend is more than ready to rise once more.
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