Next-Gen Renault Duster Set to Launch in India by Year-End 2025: Bigger, Smarter, Bolder

Renault India is gearing up to reintroduce one of its most iconic SUVs—the Renault Duster—in a brand-new avatar by the end of 2025. Once considered a pioneer in the compact SUV segment, the Duster is returning after a hiatus with bold design updates, advanced features, and modern powertrain options.

Globally revealed under the Dacia badge, the new-generation Duster has already created a buzz in international markets. Its India-specific version is expected to retain global styling cues while being tuned to local preferences, pricing, and driving conditions.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the 2025 Renault Duster India launch.

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🚙 Design: Rugged Charm with Modern Appeal

The 2025 Duster looks nothing like its predecessor—yet still holds on to its rugged SUV DNA.

Key exterior design elements include:

• Y-shaped LED headlamps and DRLs
• Chunky black cladding for a tougher look
• Flat bonnet and upright stance
• Pronounced wheel arches
• New LED tail-lamps
• Skid plates and roof rails for off-road appeal
• Alloy wheels up to 18 inches (expected in top variants)

The new Duster has evolved from a compact crossover to a more muscular and urban-ready SUV, likely measuring over 4.3 meters in length, putting it directly against the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and upcoming Tata Curvv.

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🛋️ Interior: Premium, Spacious & Tech-Loaded

Renault has gone all out to ensure the new Duster doesn’t feel outdated. The cabin is set to feature an all-new dashboard layout, premium materials, and high-end infotainment.

Expected interior highlights:

• 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• 7-inch digital instrument cluster
• Dual-tone dashboard with soft-touch elements
• Automatic climate control
• Rear AC vents
• Push-button start & keyless entry
• 6-way adjustable driver seat
• Panoramic sunroof in top trims

Seating is expected to be plush and supportive, with better legroom and boot space than the outgoing model. A 7-seater variant could also be launched later, based on the CMF-B platform.

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⚙️ Platform: CMF-B Modular Architecture

The new Duster is built on the CMF-B platform (Common Module Family – B), jointly developed by Renault and Nissan. This platform is already being localized in India and is set to underpin multiple future models for both brands.

Benefits of CMF-B Platform:

• Better crash protection (compliant with upcoming safety norms)
• Capable of supporting hybrid and electric powertrains
• More spacious cabin
• Improved NVH (Noise, Vibration & Harshness) levels
• Better ride and handling dynamics

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🔋 Engine Options: Petrol, Turbo & Hybrid Expected

The India-spec Duster will likely offer a variety of engine options to cater to different price segments.

Expected powertrain lineup:

1. 1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol
   • Power: ~110 PS
   • Gearbox: 5-speed MT / CVT
   • Target: Budget buyers
2. 1.3L Turbo Petrol (shared with Nissan)
   • Power: ~156 PS
   • Gearbox: 6-speed MT / CVT or DCT
   • Target: Performance-oriented buyers
3. 1.6L Strong Hybrid (e-Tech)
   • Power: ~145 PS combined
   • Gearbox: Multi-mode e-transmission (clutchless)
   • Fuel efficiency: Over 25 km/l (expected)
   • Target: Eco-conscious urban buyers

There are no diesel engines planned for now, in line with Renault’s global strategy.

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🛡️ Safety Features: Built to Be Safer Than Ever

Renault is focusing heavily on safety this time, and the new Duster is expected to get high-end active and passive safety tech.

Safety features may include:

• Up to 6 airbags
• 360-degree camera
• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Hill start and descent control
• Rear parking sensors & camera
• ISOFIX child seat mounts
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in hybrid variant

The European Duster is likely to score well in crash tests, and Renault will aim for at least 4-star GNCAP safety ratings in India.

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🏷️ Pricing: Competitive Strategy Expected

Renault knows the compact SUV space is price-sensitive and fiercely competitive. Hence, the pricing strategy for the new Duster will be crucial.

Expected price range:

• Base petrol variant: ₹10.5 – ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom)
• Mid turbo variant: ₹13 – ₹14 lakh
• Hybrid variant (top-end): ₹16 – ₹18 lakh

This places the Duster in the same bracket as Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, and Maruti Grand Vitara—but with a strong hybrid variant, it will challenge the Toyota Hyryder as well.

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🌍 Localization & Manufacturing

The Duster will be manufactured at Renault-Nissan’s plant in Chennai, with over 90% localization to ensure cost competitiveness. The localization of the CMF-B platform has been in progress since 2023, and this Duster marks the first vehicle based on it in India.

Renault also plans to export the Duster from India to right-hand drive markets like South Africa and ASEAN countries, helping improve economies of scale.

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🆚 Duster vs Rivals: How It Stacks Up

Feature	Renault Duster 2025	Hyundai Creta	Maruti Grand Vitara	Toyota Hyryder
Platform	CMF-B	K2	Suzuki’s Global-C	Global-C
Hybrid Option	✅ (Strong Hybrid)	❌	✅ (Mild Hybrid)	✅ (Strong Hybrid)
Turbo Petrol Option	✅	✅	❌	❌
Safety Features	Up to 6 airbags + ESP + ADAS	Up to 6 airbags	6 airbags + ESP	6 airbags + ADAS
Starting Price (Est.)	₹10.5 lakh	₹11 lakh	₹10.7 lakh	₹11.3 lakh

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🏁 Conclusion: The Return of a Legend

The Renault Duster 2025 isn’t just a comeback—it’s a complete reinvention of one of India’s most loved SUVs. With a modern platform, exciting engine options including a strong hybrid, rugged styling, and premium interiors, it’s set to become a compelling choice in the competitive mid-size SUV segment.

As India shifts toward cleaner powertrains and tech-laden cars, Renault’s move to reintroduce the Duster at this time could be a game-changer. The countdown to its launch by late 2025 has officially begun.