Renault bets big on SUV comeback with new Duster launch; prices from Rs 10.49 lakh, hybrid demand surges

Renault India on Tuesday launched the all-new Duster, marking a strategic push to reclaim share in India’s competitive mid-size SUV segment. Priced from ₹10.49 lakh (ex-showroom), the model is available at an introductory ₹10.29 lakh under the R-Pass programme until March 31, 2026, with nationwide dispatches now underway.

Built on the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP), the SUV targets performance-driven buyers with its Turbo TCe 160 engine delivering 163 PS and 280 Nm torque, paired with manual and DCT options. Renault said the turbo variant accounts for over 90% of petrol bookings, underlining a shift towards higher-performance offerings.

The Duster is offered in five trims; Authentic, Evolution, Techno, Techno+ and Iconic  featuring full LED lighting, Google-integrated OpenR Link infotainment, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, 360-degree camera and 17 ADAS features. The company is also rolling out flexible subscription plans and a 7-year ‘Renault Forever’ warranty to strengthen ownership value.

Notably, Renault’s E-Tech strong hybrid combining a 1.8-litre engine with a 1.4 kWh battery has seen robust traction, with nearly 40% uptake in metro markets. The company confirmed its entire 2026 hybrid allocation is already sold out.

In Guwahati, the launch is expected to boost demand in the Northeast’s SUV-heavy market, where buyers prioritise ground clearance and durability. Dealers report rising interest in turbo variants, while hybrid options are gaining attention among urban consumers amid fuel cost concerns.

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