New Renault Duster Spied Testing Ahead of January 2026 Unveil

Image Source: Gaoutham/X

The Renault Duster is preparing for a comeback in the Indian market and the excitement is building up fast. The SUV will be shown on 26 January 2026, and a fully camouflaged test vehicle has already been seen doing road tests. Even though the test unit was covered from end to end, the basic shape and design clues are now easier to decode, mainly because the Euro-spec Dacia Duster and the India-focused Nissan Tekton give clear hints about what the new model will bring

The fresh version of the Duster carries forward the tough and clean stance that made the earlier model a success. While the shape looks familiar, the styling is much sharper and the SUV now has a strong road presence that will help it stand out among modern rivals

Design Elements Inspired By Dacia Duster And Nissan Tekton

The exterior draws direct influence from the European and global versions. The front fascia is cleaner and more modern, and several new styling cues are clearly visible in recent spy shots

What The Exterior Will Likely Feature

• Y-shaped LED DRLs that form the signature front lighting pattern
• Thick black cladding around the wheel arches, giving it a rugged SUV feel
• Boomerang-shaped tail lamps, which replace the older V-style units
• Black sill garnish and chunky side cladding that add to the tough look

These elements together make the SUV look bold without unnecessary styling. It stays true to the essence of the Duster – simple, strong, and ready for rough roads

Interior Layout And Features Of The New Renault Duster

Inside, the upcoming Duster keeps things neat and functional. Spy pictures and global versions confirm that the cabin will not be overloaded with flashy design, but the essentials will be well executed

Likely Interior Highlights

• Two-screen setup (driver display + infotainment screen)
• Three-spoke steering wheel with a practical layout
• Drive-mode selector placed conveniently
• Y-shaped detailing around the AC vents, matching the exterior DRL design

The cabin does not try to compete with premium SUVs in terms of luxury. Instead it focuses on durability and ease of use. Interestingly, the absence of a sunroof sets it apart from most modern SUVs. Many customers who prefer a fuss-free and robust machine may actually view this as an advantage. A sunroof often requires more care, and skipping it adds to long-term durability, especially in Indian conditions

New-Gen Renault Duster: Engine And Mechanical Overview

Globally the Dacia Duster is sold with three different powertrain setups. The upcoming India model is expected to borrow heavily from these

Euro-Spec Engine Options

• Hybrid 140 (makes 140 hp or 138 bhp)
• Mild-Hybrid 130 (130 hp or 128.2 bhp)
• Mild-Hybrid 130 with 4×4 capability

For India, Renault is likely to offer the Mild-Hybrid 130 configuration. This setup gives a good mix of power and efficiency and is suitable for both city use and highway runs. While the global 4×4 model exists, it is still unclear if Renault will bring the off-road version to India at launch

Why The Renault Duster Earned Its Reputation

The first-generation Duster made a strong mark in India because of its:

• Straightforward design
• Reliable mechanicals
• Comfortable ride quality
• Strong durability

The SUV was known as a machine that could handle rough patches easily without unnecessary complications. This simple yet effective nature helped it gain popularity quickly

Renault paused the Duster in India for some time, but interest in a practical, sturdy SUV never faded. This is why the return of the Duster is one of the most anticipated launches of 2026

Expected Price Range And Market Positioning

When it arrives, the new-gen model is expected to fall in the ₹10 – 16 lakh price band. At this price, it will compete with midsize SUVs, but its simple nature and rugged character will appeal to buyers who want a dependable vehicle rather than a feature-stuffed soft-roader

With the current lineup and Renault’s revised strategy for India, the brand seems to be moving in a positive direction. The new Duster will likely strengthen this shift even further