French automaker Renault is all set for its grand comeback. The company has officially announced that it will launch two new SUVs in the Indian market in the first half of 2026. This includes the long-awaited third-generation Renault Duster, which will arrive in the first quarter of 2026, and an all-new 7-seater SUV, which is scheduled to hit the market by mid-2026. This move could re-establish Renault as a strong player in India’s SUV race. Will the new Duster and 7-seater SUV be able to challenge the dominance of giants like the Hyundai Creta and Mahindra XUV700? Let’s try to answer this question today.

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New Duster

Renault has confirmed that the new Duster will go on sale in the first quarter of 2026, possibly in January. This SUV is based on the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s CMF-B modular platform, which will also underpin the upcoming Nissan Tekton and 7-seater Renault SUV. This SUV will be manufactured at the company’s Chennai manufacturing plant for the domestic and export markets. Testing of the new Duster has already begun, and it appears to be similar to the global-spec model. It will be powered by a 1.3L turbocharged petrol engine with manual and dual-clutch automatic gearbox options. Renault may offer the entry-level variant of the SUV with a 1.0L 3-cylinder, turbo petrol engine. The French brand will also launch a hybrid version of the Duster, but in late 2026 or early 2027.

Features and Safety

The third-generation Renault Duster will be equipped with several comfort, convenience, and safety features. These will include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, a large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, a 7-inch digital instrument console, and Level 2 ADAS. All these features will combine to provide a strong and attractive package compared to its competitors. With so many features, the new Duster will not only enhance the driving experience but could also set new standards in terms of safety.

7 Seater SUV

Renault will launch a Grand Duster SUV, based on the Boreal or Dacia Bigster SUV. This 7-seater SUV will launch in mid-2026, possibly around July-August. It will be based on a longer version of the CMF-B modular platform. The new 7-seater SUV is expected to measure approximately 4.6-4.7 meters in length. This SUV will share features with the new Duster. Additionally, the SUV may also receive a 6-seater derivative, featuring captain seats in the second row that may support ventilation. The SUV could also receive dual-zone climate control, Level 2 ADAS technology, front and rear parking sensors, and other features.

Powertrain and Performance

This 7-seater SUV will be powered by a 1.3-liter, 4-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine with manual and automatic gearbox options. The SUV could also feature an AWD drivetrain, making it even more capable for off-roading. The new Duster, meanwhile, is expected to deliver impressive performance thanks to its 1.3L turbocharged engine, which will perform well on both urban and highway roads. Both SUVs could set new benchmarks for power and performance in their respective segments.

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2026 is set to be a crucial year for Renault. Both the new Duster and the 7-seater SUV have the potential to emerge as strong contenders in their respective segments. If Renault launches them with the right price and features, they could pose challenges to rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Mahindra XUV700, and Tata Safari. This will be a great opportunity for Indian customers to look even better options in the compact SUV and 7-seater SUV segments. It remains to be seen whether Renault can recreate the magic of the old Duster with its Grand SUV comeback plan.