Renault Introduces the New Duster for the Indian Market

Renault has presented the new Duster for India as part of its International Game Plan 2027. Learn how the SUV fits into Renault’s strategy.

Renault has officially announced the return of the Duster to the Indian market, unveiling a new generation of the SUV as part of its Renault International Game Plan 2027. For the brand, this is more than a model update; it represents a strategic move to reinforce its presence in one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets, where compact and midsize SUVs have become the dominant vehicle category.

The Duster holds a distinctive place in Renault’s history in India. First launched in the country in 2012, the model effectively created the compact SUV (B+) segment, which by 2025 accounted for around 14% of all passenger vehicle sales nationwide. With more than 200,000 units sold over the years, the Duster established itself as one of Renault’s most recognisable and symbolic vehicles in India.

The new generation of the Duster has been developed with a clear focus on local market expectations. Renault emphasises that the model builds on the original Duster’s legacy of robustness and freedom, while introducing a more contemporary design, updated technologies and improved performance. Within the company, the new Duster is described as the first major milestone in Renault’s renewed product strategy for India.

India’s importance within Renault Group’s global plans has increased significantly. Now the world’s third-largest automotive market, India has undergone a profound shift in consumer preferences over the past decade, with the share of SUVs rising from 12% in 2012 to nearly 55%. This transformation is a key factor behind the decision to bring back the Duster, which will complement Renault’s current Indian lineup consisting of the Kwid, Triber and Kiger.

Production of the new Renault Duster will take place at the Renault Group plant in Chennai, one of the company’s five major industrial hubs outside Europe. Fully owned by Renault Group since 2025 following the acquisition of Nissan’s stake, the facility has produced more than three million vehicles since its opening. Renault views a high level of local production as essential to ensuring the model’s competitiveness in the Indian market.

Renault’s presence in India extends beyond manufacturing. The company operates the Renault Design Center Chennai, inaugurated in 2025, alongside a major engineering centre that plays an active role in adapting vehicles for both local and international markets. According to Renault, this combination of local design, engineering expertise and industrial capability is central to the long-term success of its renewed product strategy.

The new Renault Duster is scheduled to go on sale in India in spring 2026, followed by launches in South Africa and the Gulf markets. For Renault, the model represents an initial but significant step in a broader effort to refresh its range and strengthen its footprint outside Europe.