Renault has kept Indian car enthusiasts eagerly anticipating the arrival of the all-new Duster SUV. The next-generation model is officially scheduled to make its debut on January 26, 2026, marking a significant comeback for one of Renault's most popular nameplates in India. In the run-up to its launch, fresh spy shots of the SUV have surfaced online, offering a glimpse of its exterior styling and design cues. Positioned as a direct rival to the Hyundai Creta, the new Duster is expected to bring a refreshed look and updated features that could reignite interest in Renault's SUV lineup.
The upcoming Renault Duster will mark a complete departure from its predecessor, with no mechanical or design elements carried forward. It is set to be built on a heavily localised version of the Renault-Nissan CMF-B platform, with production planned at the company's Oragadam facility. This signals a fresh start for the Duster nameplate in India, where Renault has several new models lined up.
Renault Duster Spy Shots
Photo Credit: Gaoutam/X
The return of the Duster is central to Renault's International Game Plan 2027, which targets growth in emerging markets. Alongside the new SUV, the company is preparing a budget urban EV and a three-row SUV for markets such as India. The Duster will serve as the first step in Renault's renewed strategy to strengthen its SUV portfolio in the country, which currently only includes the Kiger.
Spy images of the upcoming Renault Duster reveal several design highlights, including Y-shaped LED DRLs, polygonal headlamps, and a rugged bumper. The front grille is expected to feature bold RENAULT lettering, while the SUV's profile shows polygonal wheel arches, distinctive door trims, thick body cladding, roof rails, and ORVMs with integrated turn indicators. Rear door handles are mounted on the C-pillar, adding to the SUV's unique styling. The India-spec model may also feature a different alloy wheel design compared to global versions.
At the back, the new Renault Duster features a notched rear spoiler that adds to its sporty appeal. The tailgate houses a revised section for the number plate, positioned below the Renault logo. Other visible elements include a shark-fin antenna, a sharply raked rear windshield, and a rugged bumper design. The tail lamps are expected to carry a Y-shaped signature, though the heavy camouflage on the test mule makes it difficult to confirm. The prototype also appears to be fitted with temporary compact tail lamps.
New Renault Duster
Photo Credit: Gaoutam/X
Regarding the specifications, the globally available Renault Duster offers several powertrain choices, such as a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine combined with a 48V mild hybrid system, producing a total of 128.2 hp, and a 1.6-litre strong hybrid petrol engine paired with two electric motors powered by a 1.2kWh battery, delivering a peak output of 138 hp. Additionally, there is a 1.0-litre petrol-LPG engine generating 98.6 hp, paired with a 6-speed transmission that drives all four wheels.