After Tata Sierra, Another Hyundai Creta Rival Coming Early 2026

The Hyundai Creta continues to lead the SUV segment with strong monthly sales, but fresh competition is on the horizon. The newly launched Tata Sierra and the upcoming Renault Duster, slated for release on 26th January, are set to intensify the rivalry. The Renault Duster, first introduced in India in 2012 and widely popular among buyers, was later discontinued. Now making a comeback, it will be the brand's first launch under the International Game Plan 2025. Here's a look at what's known so far about the Creta-challenging Renault Duster. 

Ahead of its India launch, the new Renault Duster has already been showcased internationally and spotted testing locally. The SUV adopts a fresh design closely aligned with its global counterpart, featuring V-shaped tail lamps, pronounced wheel-arch cladding, a shark-fin antenna, roof rails, rear washer and wiper, along with a sharply raked windshield.

2026 Renault Duster

Up front, the updated Duster sports a vertical stance with Y-shaped LED lighting, a bull-bar-inspired grille, and a sculpted hood. Other highlights include angular wheel arches, turn-signal-integrated side mirrors, darkened B-pillars, and conventional door handles.

The Renault Duster 2026 is expected to arrive with a rich package of safety and technology features. A test mule has revealed a three-screen setup, including a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 7-inch co-passenger display, and a fully digital instrument cluster. Expected highlights also include dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, and a panoramic sunroof, positioning the SUV as a modern, feature-packed contender in India's competitive market.

2026 Renault Duster spy shots
Photo Credit: rushlane

Globally, the Duster is offered with multiple powertrain options: a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol mild hybrid producing 128.2 hp, a 1.6-litre strong hybrid petrol with two electric motors delivering 138 hp, and a 1.0-litre petrol-LPG unit generating 98.6 hp, paired with a 6-speed transmission and all-wheel drive capability.