Renault has started exporting the Duster from India to global markets. The first shipment of Renault Duster set sail for South Africa from Chennai Port today. More shipments to other international markets are expected to follow in the coming months. The Duster was launched in India back in March at an introductory price of Rs 10.29 lakh.
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Renault Duster: Shipped to South Africa as part of automaker’s ‘futuREady’ strategy
Back in April, Renault Group unveiled ‘futuREady’, its new strategic plan to position India as a cornerstone of its global value chain. The Group’s ambition is to generate €2 billion in annual exports by 2030 in vehicles, R&D and components. Its engineering centre in Chennai brings together 6,000 engineers and IT specialists in vehicle architecture, software, simulation and vehicle lifecycle upgrades.
The Duster is one of the first major Renault offerings to be shipped from the Chennai plant. It is the first Renault car in India to be underpinned by the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP). It stands at dimensions of 4,343mm x 1,813mm x 1,659mm, and has a 2,657mm wheelbase. The model shipped to South Africa appears to be identical to its India-spec counterpart. It has the ‘DUSTER’ lettering on the glossy grille.
In terms of features, the 2026 Renault Duster packs a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. There’s support for wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other features include dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, ventilated front seats, and more. On the safety front, the midsize SUV gets 6 airbags, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, and more. There is a Level 2 ADAS package on board.
There are 2 powertrain options on offer – 1.0-litre turbo petrol and 1.3-litre turbo petrol. The former generates a maximum power output of 100hp and 160Nm of torque. It can be mated to a 6-speed manual transmission only. The 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine produces 163hp and 280Nm. It can be linked to a 6-speed manual or DCT gearbox. A strong-hybrid engine will join the lineup in the coming months.
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Final Thoughts
Prices for the Duster in India start at Rs 10.49 lakh and go up to Rs 18.49 lakh. It rivals the Tata Sierra, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser HyRyder, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Hyundai Creta, Skoda Kushaq, and Honda Elevate. Renault also exports the Kiger, Triber, and Kwid from India to international markets.
