Renault Likely To Showcase Duster SUV At Auto Expo 2023

Important Note: We've recently learned that Renault will not be present at the Auto Expo.

Most Notable Features Of Renault Duster

The Duster is popular in several international markets for its utilitarian design, robust diesel engines and impressive ride quality. The first-gen Duster was on sale in India from 2012 until February 2022. Back in 2019, Renault India announced that the second-gen Dacia Duster would not go on sale in India. However, after witnessing a renewed interest among buyers in the C-segment SUVs such as the Maruti Nexa Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder and the Hyundai Creta, Renault are likely to reintroduce the Duster nameplate in India in the near future.

That said, Renault are yet to reveal the production version of the 3rd-generation Duster SUV. Hence, the chances of a global unveil of the next-gen Duster at the 2023 Auto Expo are low. The most notable feature of the Dacia Bigster concept is its sheer size and rugged design.

Also Read: Hyundai Likely To Showcase Creta Facelift At Auto Expo 2023

The production version of the Renault Duster will borrow the CMF-B platform from Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance. It could retain design cues from the Bigster concept, such as the Y-shaped headlight design with LED DRLs integrated into the front grille. It also retains the boxy wheel arches of the Duster. Renault are also likely to offer the next-gen Duster with a 3-row seating option.

Note: Know more about the upcoming cars In January 2023

Renault Duster Expected Specs

Should it come to India, we expect the next-gen Renault Duster SUV to offer the 1.6L hybrid petrol engine as the India-bound Arkana coupe SUV. The Duster was popular among buyers for its drivability, reliability and fuel efficiency. The 1.6L hybrid petrol engine is a perfect match in Renault’s portfolio to offer most of these characteristics. However, a downsized, 1.5L hybrid petrol engine could help it stay in a lower tax slab. Renault are unlikely to offer a diesel engine with the next-gen Duster in India.

In terms of features, we expect the next-gen Duster SUV to get the following features:

• Twin screen setup for instrumentation and infotainment
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 2-row and 3-row seating options
• Optional all-wheel drivetrain
• Panoramic sunroof

Renault Duster Rivals

The next-gen Duster will continue to compete with the C-segment SUVs. Hence, it will take on the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, MG Astor, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. The 7-seat version of the next-gen Duster could take on the likes of the Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV700, Kia Carens, Hyundai Alcazar and MG Hector Plus.

Renault Duster Launch Timeline

Since Renault/Dacia are yet to unveil the production version of the Duster globally, we do not expect it to launch in India in 2023. In the best-case situation, it could arrive in 2024. The previous Renault Duster had 98% localisation and therefore, it had a competitive price tag. It will takes a few months to establish a list of suppliers for the Duster in India.

Note: Find out more about all upcoming cars In India

Renault Duster Expected Price

The bigger expected dimensions, hybrid petrol powertrain and modern and contemporary features could push the price of the Duster upwards in the country. We expect Renault to match or beat the prices Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos cousins prevailing at the time of launch. For reference, the Hyundai Creta retails between Rs. 10.44 lakh to Rs. 18.24 lakh (ex-showroom).

Note: Here’s a list of all upcoming Renault Cars