The 2026 new Renault duster vs old Duster comparison showcases how much the iconic SUV has changed post its disappearance from the Indian market as early as around 2020. The previous generation Duster, which was on sale from 2012 to 2020 in the country, had built a reputation for being rugged and affordable, with its strong diesel engine doing wonders to establish the compact SUV segment.
The all-new third-generation model, set for India reveal on January 26, 2026, and full launch shortly after, shifts to a more modern, premium positioning on the CMF-B platform shared with Nissan. While remaining true to the Duster’s key strengths of space and value, the 2026 model offers a step up in design, technology, safety and quality.
- Anticipated Price for 2026 Renault Duster in India
- Design Evolution: From Rugged Classic to Modern Upright Stance
- Interior and Features: Major Step Up in Premium Feel and Tech
- Engine and Powertrain: Shift from Diesel Focus to Petrol and Hybrid
- Safety and Platform Improvements
- Expected Price and Launch Date
Anticipated Price for 2026 Renault Duster in India
The new 2026 Renault Duster is expected to start from ₹10-12 lakh ex-showroom for the base models and go up to ₹18-20 lakh for the top trims, as opposed to the previous model’s price range of ₹8-14 lakhs approx (when adjusted for inflation). This makes it pitted against the existing rivals such as Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.
Design Evolution: From Rugged Classic to Modern Upright Stance
The old Duster had a rounded, friendly yet capable look with chrome grille accents, halogen lights, and simple lines that emphasized its no-nonsense character. The 2026 new Renault Duster vs old Duster exterior shows a complete transformation – a bolder, more assertive profile with Y-shaped LED DRLs, sharp polygonal headlamps, squared wheel arches, and an upright stance for better road presence.
On the outside, that same powertrain design wears contemporary cues like iPhone-style connected LED taillights, flushdoor handles and 18-inch alloys in higher trims, but still maintains rugged cues such as roof rails and skid plates. India-specific updates include minor revision to the grille and bumper as per local preference. Ground clearance has increased to approximately 217mm internationally in 4×4 versions (India launch at a later date) over the old’s 205mm, which will enhance off-roading.
Interior and Features: Major Step Up in Premium Feel and Tech
The earlier Duster’s interiors were utilitarian, but the design felt dated and bland courtesy the plain plastics inside, small touchscreen for top-spec trims and few connectivity options. Renault Duster 2026 gets a driver-focused design with floating 10.1-inch touchscreen and new digital driver’s display and claims to have the use of soft-touch materials for premium feel.
Other features on the table are wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, connected car tech, ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof and the “YouClip” accessory mounting system. Boot space grows to 594 litres globally, offering more practicality than the old model’s 475 litres. The new model also adds ambient lighting and better noise insulation for a quieter ride.
Engine and Powertrain: Shift from Diesel Focus to Petrol and Hybrid
The old Duster was loved for its 1.5L diesel (85/110 hp versions) delivering excellent torque and mileage (up to 20 kmpl). 2026 new Renault Duster vs old Duster – Powertrain The 2026 new Renault Duster vs old one difference comes at a time when there’s this big development – no diesel for now in India, the two petrols are expected, but with some Seltos/Sonnet spirits: 1.3L turbo-petrol (150-156 hp) with manual/CVT; perhaps a 1.0L three-cylinder turbo dealing it out on the price-leading variants.
There will be mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid options available globally, with India also expected to receive a localized hybrid closer to the end of 2026. Claimed mileage: 17-20 kmpl for petrol, better with hybrids. 4×4 is confirmed globally and anticipated for India in higher trims, a feature the old model offered.
Safety and Platform Improvements
The previous Duster had basic safety (dual airbags, ABS in top trims). New one uses a more rigid CMF-B platform, with 6 airbags + ADAS (lane assist, emergency braking) as standard, expect 5 star global test results. India-spec shall get local safety norms preference.
Expected Price and Launch Date
The new Renault Duster 2026 will be priced at approximately ₹10-20 lakh ex-showroom, slightly higher than the old model to cover some extra tech and platform costs. The unveiling will be on January 26, 2026; sales will begin shortly thereafter.
The 2026 new Renault Duster, compared to the old Duster, has evolved towards modernity while still retaining its core strengths of space and value. The new version is appealing to buyers interested in the latest technology and styling, although some might lament the loss of the old diesel engine’s torque. It will bring India-specific variants and aims to regain its market share in the segment by 2026.
