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Renault Revamps Duster SUV for Indian Market

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 1:12 GMT by Deccan Herald
      Locales: INDIA, FRANCE

Mumbai, India - February 12th, 2026 - Renault India is making a significant push to revitalize its presence in the highly competitive Indian automotive market with the upcoming launch of its redesigned Duster SUV. The company, which has seen fluctuating fortunes in recent years, is pinning high hopes on the new Duster to not only bolster sales but also recapture lost market share, particularly within the rapidly expanding SUV segment.

The original Duster, launched over a decade ago, enjoyed considerable success in India, earning a reputation for its robust build quality, spaciousness, and surprisingly capable off-road performance - a feature that resonated well with Indian drivers navigating varied terrain. However, the car gradually lost ground to newer, more feature-rich rivals, most notably Hyundai's Creta and Tata's Nexon, which have consistently topped sales charts. Renault acknowledges this shift and is actively addressing it with this comprehensive overhaul.

"We understand the evolving demands of the Indian consumer," stated Vikram Sharma, Head of Marketing at Renault India, in an exclusive interview. "The new Duster isn't merely a facelift; it's a comprehensive redesign informed by extensive customer feedback. We've focused on enhancing the aspects customers already loved - the ruggedness, the space - while simultaneously addressing areas where we lagged behind, primarily in terms of modern features and aesthetics."

The revamped Duster boasts a significantly refreshed exterior design. While retaining the distinctive silhouette that defined the original, the new model incorporates a more aggressive front fascia, sleeker headlights, and a redesigned rear end. These cosmetic changes are aimed at attracting a younger, more style-conscious demographic. Inside, the cabin receives a complete overhaul, featuring a redesigned dashboard, updated infotainment system, and improved material quality. Sources indicate the new Duster will feature a larger touchscreen display, wireless smartphone connectivity, and potentially a digital instrument cluster, bringing it in line with contemporary standards.

Beyond the aesthetic upgrades, Renault is focusing on enhancing the technological aspects of the Duster. The new model is expected to come equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control - features that are becoming increasingly popular and expected by Indian buyers. Connectivity is also a priority, with the integration of Renault's connected car technology providing real-time vehicle monitoring and remote control features through a dedicated mobile app.

However, Renault isn't abandoning the core strengths of the Duster. The robust build quality and off-road capabilities remain central to its appeal. The company is maintaining the high ground clearance and reinforced suspension that made the original Duster a favorite among those venturing beyond paved roads. While many SUVs prioritize on-road comfort, Renault recognizes the continued demand for a vehicle that can handle India's diverse road conditions.

The Indian SUV market is fiercely competitive, with Hyundai and Tata Motors consistently dominating sales figures. Hyundai's Creta, known for its stylish design and feature-packed interior, and Tata's Nexon, lauded for its safety and affordability, pose significant challenges to Renault. To counter this, Renault is adopting a competitive pricing strategy. Sharma confirmed that the new Duster will be priced aggressively to attract price-sensitive Indian buyers. The company is also partnering with several financial institutions to offer attractive financing options, including low-interest loans and flexible repayment plans.

The success of the new Duster will be crucial for Renault's long-term strategy in India. While the company has explored other segments, the Duster remains a key pillar of its product portfolio. A strong performance in the SUV segment could pave the way for Renault to introduce further models and expand its presence in the Indian market. The launch is slated for late February, and industry analysts are closely watching to see if Renault's revamped Duster can indeed reclaim lost ground and reignite the brand's fortunes in India.