Not Just Mahindra XUV 700 Facelift, Another Hyundai Creta Rival Coming In Jan 2026

The Hyundai Creta continues to dominate the SUV market with consistent monthly sales, but new rivals are emerging. The recently teased Mahindra XUV 700 Facelift, which has been renamed as XUV 7XO, and the soon-to-arrive Renault Duster, scheduled for release on January 26, are expected to intensify competition in the segment. Originally introduced in India in 2012, the Duster quickly became a popular choice before being discontinued in 2022. Now, Renault is reviving the model as part of its International Game Plan 2025, marking its first major launch under the strategy. Here's what's known so far about the Creta-challenging 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.

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Renault Duster

The upcoming Renault Duster 2026 adopts a bold new look, highlighted by its vertical stance, Y-shaped LED lighting, bull-bar-inspired grille, and sculpted hood. Angular wheel arches, turn-signal-integrated side mirrors, darkened B-pillars, and conventional door handles further enhance its rugged yet refined appeal. Inside, the SUV promises a tech-rich cabin, as revealed by a test mule showcasing a three-screen setup: a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 7-inch co-passenger display, and a fully digital instrument cluster. Together, these elements position the Duster as a modern contender in India's competitive SUV market.

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Beyond design and technology, the Renault Duster 2026 is expected to deliver several premium features that elevate convenience and comfort. Highlights include dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, and a panoramic sunroof, all aimed at enhancing everyday usability. With this comprehensive package, Renault is preparing the Duster to stand out against rivals, offering buyers a feature-packed SUV that blends rugged styling with advanced equipment tailored for Indian customers.

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The globally available Renault Duster comes with multiple powertrain options. These include a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system, delivering 128.2 hp, and a 1.6-litre strong-hybrid petrol unit combined with two electric motors and a 1.2kWh battery, producing 138 hp. Additionally, Renault offers a 1.0-litre petrol-LPG engine that generates 98.6 hp, mated to a 6-speed transmission powering all four wheels, giving buyers a versatile mix of efficiency, performance, and capability.