Renault Duster spotted testing ahead of launch

Renault Duster is set to launch in India on January 26, 2026. The SUV was recently spotted testing in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The test mule was completely draped under camouflage, but it is identical to its international-spec version that broke cover in November 2023. In Europe, it is sold in multiple powertrains as the Dacia Duster. It remains to be seen which powertrain Renault will introduce in the Indian market.

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Renault Duster: What do the spy shots suggest?

The test mule of the upcoming Duster was completely camouflaged, but it gave away some design cues. Cutouts on the front fascia revealed the Y-shaped LED DRLs and angular headlamps. The trim on the grille was fully covered. It is expected to feature RENAULT lettering. The profile of the test mule revealed the sporty silhouette of the SUV along with the C-pillar-mounted door handles. Its alloy wheels were draped under covers, too. Renault could tweak the design of the alloy wheels for the Indian market. The spy shots gave a closer look at the raked windshield and the shark fin antenna at the back.

Not many details are known about the interior of the India-spec Duster. Rumours suggest that Renault could equip the SUV’s dashboard with a triple-screen setup. This dashboard will rock a dual-tone colour theme. The international model comes with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 7-inch driver’s display. The infotainment system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It also gets automatic climate control, rear AC vents, wireless charging, an Arkamys 3D sound system, and an ADAS package.

In international markets, the Duster is offered in 3 powertrain options – 1.0L petrol, 1.2L petrol hybrid, and 1.3L turbo petrol. The 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine is offered with the entry-level variants of the SUV. It produces a maximum power output of 120hp. Meanwhile, the other two engines produce 140hp and 170hp, respectively. The hybrid powertrain gets regenerative braking and a 1.2kWh battery pack. It is rumoured that the Duster will launch with a petrol powertrain in India. A  hybrid setup will be added down the line.

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Final Thoughts

Last month, Nissan teased its Duster-based SUV named ‘Tekton’ for the Indian market. The automaker has not announced the launch date for the SUV yet, although it is very likely that it will go on sale after the Duster. Upon launch, the two SUVs will rival the Tata Sierra, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser HyRyder, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Hyundai Creta, Skoda Kushaq, Honda Elevate, and other midsize SUVs.