Renault is now mulling plans to bring the third generation of the Duster to India sometime in 2026.
Buckle up, SUV fans! Renault is roaring back into India’s fiercely competitive SUV market with the third-generation Duster and the all-new seven-seater Bigster, both set to launch in 2026. These aren’t just vehicles—they’re bold statements of style, tech, and eco-conscious powertrains designed to take on giants like the Hyundai Creta and Tata Safari. Whether you’re a city driver or a family road-tripper, here’s why the Duster and Bigster are about to steal the spotlight.
The Big Return: Renault’s SUV Revival
The Renault Duster was a legend in India from 2012 to 2022, loved for its rugged charm and affordability. After a brief hiatus, it’s back with a vengeance, joined by the Bigster, a three-row SUV built for families. Both are crafted on the versatile CMF-B platform, shared with the upcoming Nissan C-SUV, ensuring modern designs and cutting-edge features. With production kicking off in September 2025 at Renault-Nissan’s Chennai plant, these SUVs are ready to redefine what Indian buyers expect from their rides.
The Renault Duster was a fan favorite in India from 2012 to 2021, known for its rugged appeal and wallet-friendly price. Though discontinued locally, it continued to shine globally, and now Renault is bringing the third-generation Duster back to India in 2026. This SUV will be a cornerstone of Renault’s future plans, joined by the Bigster, a three-row model built to rival family-oriented SUVs. Both are crafted on the versatile CMF-B platform, shared with the upcoming Nissan C-SUV, ensuring cutting-edge design and features.
Why This Is Huge
The Duster’s return isn’t just a revival—it’s a strategic move to capture India’s booming SUV market. Priced from ₹10 lakh for the Duster and ₹13-22 lakh for the Bigster, these SUVs promise value, hybrid efficiency, and premium tech. Ready to dive into what makes them special? Let’s go!
Launch Timeline: When Will They Hit the Roads?
The Duster is gearing up for a June 2026 launch, with production starting at Renault-Nissan’s Chennai plant in September 2025. Pre-bookings could open by late 2025, building hype for its comeback. The Bigster, designed for larger families, will follow later in 2026. Hybrid variants for both models are confirmed to arrive within 6-12 months of their petrol launches, offering eco-friendly options for India’s fuel-conscious buyers.
The Rollout Plan
- September 2025: Production kicks off in Chennai.
- Early 2026: Duster petrol models launch.
- Mid-2026: Bigster petrol variants debut.
- Late 2026-Early 2027: Hybrid Duster and Bigster roll out.
Which one’s got your attention—the compact Duster or the roomy Bigster? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
Why This Matters
Renault’s comeback isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about delivering value in a market packed with options. Priced from Rs 10 lakh for the Duster and Rs 13-22 lakh for the Bigster, these SUVs aim to undercut rivals while offering hybrid tech and premium features. Ready to see how they stack up?
Launch Plans: When and What to Expect
Mark your calendars! The Duster is expected to hit showrooms by June 2026, with pre-bookings likely starting late 2025. The Bigster will follow later in the year, catering to those needing extra seats and space. But the real game-changer? Hybrid variants for both models will roll out within 6-12 months of their petrol launches, bringing fuel efficiency to the forefront.
The Timeline Breakdown
- September 2025: Production begins at Chennai plant.
- Early 2026: Duster petrol variants launch.
- Mid-2026: Bigster petrol models debut.
- Late 2026-Early 2027: Hybrid Duster and Bigster hit the roads.
What’s got you more excited—the compact Duster or the spacious Bigster? Let us know in the comments!
Power and Efficiency: Engines for Every Driver
The Duster and Bigster are packed with powertrain options to suit India’s diverse needs. The Duster kicks off with petrol engines, including a punchy 1.3-litre turbo-petrol (156hp) paired with a 6-speed manual or CVT gearbox. A 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol might join the lineup for budget buyers. The Bigster will likely share these engines, with tweaks for its larger frame.
Hybrid Power: The Future Is Here
By mid-2026, both SUVs will offer strong-hybrid powertrains. The Duster’s hybrid combines a 94hp 1.6-litre petrol engine with two electric motors and a 1.2kWh battery, delivering 140hp and up to 80% electric driving in cities. The Bigster’s hybrid ups the ante with a 108hp petrol engine, a 51hp motor, and a 1.4kWh battery, producing 155hp. Renault’s also exploring CNG variants, tapping into India’s love for cost-effective fuels.
“Hybrids will surpass EVs by 2032, achieving a 15-18 percent market share,” says Venkatram Mamillapalle, Renault India’s CEO and MD.
Why Hybrids?
With EVs still at a 1.5% market share in India, Renault’s betting big on hybrids and CNG to meet government incentives and buyer preferences. Will this multi-fuel strategy win you over?
Style and Tech: Rugged Meets Refined
The Duster, at 4.34 meters, sports a bold new look with Y-shaped LED headlights, a chunky grille, and a 472-litre boot—perfect for weekend getaways. The Bigster, stretching to 4.57 meters, offers a massive 667-litre boot and a 2.7-meter wheelbase for roomy interiors. Both SUVs pack a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 7-inch or 10-inch digital driver’s display, and a 6-speaker Arkamys 3D sound system. Want more? Higher trims include a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, and dual-zone climate control.
Standout Features
- Infotainment: 10.1-inch touchscreen with seamless smartphone integration.
- Comfort: Panoramic sunroof and plush interiors on top variants.
- Sound: Arkamys 3D audio for an immersive drive.
Which feature are you most hyped about? Drop your thoughts below!
Safety: Built to Protect
Safety is non-negotiable, and both the Duster and Bigster deliver with a 3-star Euro NCAP rating. Standard features include six airbags, electronic stability control, and seatbelt reminders. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and traffic sign recognition add extra peace of mind. The Bigster scored 69% for adult occupant protection and an impressive 85% for child safety, though it misses out on some advanced features like rear-seat occupant detection.
Safety Highlights
- Airbags: Six standard across all variants.
- ADAS: Lane assist and emergency braking for safer drives.
- Child Safety: 85% Euro NCAP score for young passengers.
How important is safety to you when picking an SUV? Share your priorities!
Taking on the Titans: Duster and Bigster vs. Rivals
The Duster, priced at Rs 10-19 lakh, is ready to battle compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, Honda Elevate, MG Astor, and Citroen C3 Aircross. It’ll also face coupe-style rivals like the Tata Curvv and Citroen Basalt. The Bigster, at Rs 13-22 lakh, takes on three-row heavyweights like the Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV700, Hyundai Alcazar, and MG Hector Plus. With shared components from the Nissan C-SUV, Renault’s offerings promise value and versatility.
Why Renault Stands Out
- Affordability: Competitive pricing undercuts many rivals.
- Hybrid Edge: Fuel efficiency for cost-conscious buyers.
- Rugged DNA: Built for India’s diverse terrains.
Which rival do you think poses the biggest threat to Renault? Let’s hear your take!
Renault’s Vision: A Multi-Fuel Future
Renault’s strategy is clear: cater to India’s unique market with petrol, CNG, and hybrid options while keeping EVs on the horizon. With EVs holding just a 1.5% market share, Renault’s focus on hybrids and CNG aligns with government incentives and infrastructure realities. A Kiger EV is in the works, but the Duster and Bigster are the stars for now, balancing immediate needs with long-term trends.
The Big Picture
Renault’s CMF-B platform supports ICE, hybrid, and electric powertrains, giving the brand flexibility to adapt. As India’s SUV market heats up, Renault’s multi-fuel approach could set a new benchmark.
Join the Conversation
Are you ready to see the Duster back in action, or is the Bigster’s family-friendly vibe more your style? Will hybrids steal the show, or are you sticking with petrol? Jump into the comments and share your excitement for Renault’s 2026 lineup!
Poll: What’s Your Must-Have SUV Feature?
- Hybrid powertrain for better mileage
- Top-notch safety with ADAS
- Premium tech like sunroof and touchscreen
- Wallet-friendly pricing
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