Old Renault Duster vs New Renault Duster – Some cars in the Indian automobile market are not just cars, they make a trend. Renault Duster has been one such SUV. When Duster came to India in 2012, no one thought that it would lay the foundation for the compact SUV segment on its own. Strong suspension, great rides on bad roads and a rough-tough style of Duster corrected everything that buyers wanted in that period.
Its closure in 2022 did create an emptiness, but now Renault is bringing it back as the new generation Duster (2026). The question is simply whether the new Duster will wake up that old spell again. A direct comparison of the two generations is necessary to find out the answer.
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Exterior Design
The first generation Renault Duster was known for its simplicity and muscular look. When the rest of the SUVs were entangled in chrome and curves, Duster’s straightforward but powerful design created a distinct identity.
The new Duster advances the same DNA, but is now more modern and sharp. Its boxy shape, wide stance and chunky preparation now show more confidence than before. It is clear that Renault has decided to refine the old identity instead.
Interior
If the old Duster had lagged behind in one thing, it was his cabin. In the early days, the interior, which looked fine, started feeling old over time. Hard plastics, basic design and outdated techs began to overtake new players in their segment.
Renault has completely overcome this deficiency in the new Duster. Now the cabin comes with more premium material, better fit-finish and modern design. As soon as it sits inside, this SUV now competes directly with trains like Creta, Seltos and Grand Vitara.
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Features and Safety
Talking about features and safety, the new Duster overturns the whole bet here. It features features such as a 10.1-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital cluster with Google OS, dual-zone climate control, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, wireless charger, powered tailgate, ventilated and powered seats, ambient lighting and air purifiers.
Its safety also has a big jump. While the old Duster was limited to dual airbags, the new Duster offers 6 airbags, Level-2 ADAS, 360-degree cameras, EPB with Auto Hold and front-rear parking sensors.
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Engine
The old Duster saw many engines in its time, but in the last round it was limited to 1.5 NA petrol and 1.3 turbo petrol. The new Duster is now completely future-ready. It will offer options up to 1.0-liter turbo petrol, 1.3-liter mild hybrid turbo petrol and 1.8-liter Strong Hybrid. That is, now there is a complete focus on mileage with performance.
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Launch, Price and Competition
Renault has confirmed that the new Duster will launch in mid-March. Estimated prices ₹can range between 10 lakhs to ₹20 lakhs (ex-showroom).
After launch, it will compete with Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Honda Elevate, VW Taigun and many new SUVs to come.