Top 10 Features Of New Renault Duster

1. 1.8-Litre Strong-Hybrid Powertrain

The headline feature is the new 1.8-litre GDI strong-hybrid system, a massive leap for Renault in India. This setup pairs a high-efficiency petrol engine with dual electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery, managed by an 8-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT).

 It allows the Duster to start and crawl in pure EV mode, offering a silent, smooth city experience while delivering instant torque for overtakes. Beyond performance, this full-hybrid technology aims for a class-leading fuel efficiency of 20+ kmpl, significantly lowering daily running costs for urban commuters without the need for external charging infrastructure.

2. High-Performance TCe 160 Turbo Engine

For those who crave raw power, the TCe 160 is a powerhouse at launch. This 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine generates a substantial 163 PS and 280 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful SUVs in the compact segment. 

Paired with a 6-speed wet-clutch DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) and an electronic shifter, it provides lightning-fast gear changes and effortless high-speed cruising. 

This engine is specifically tuned for Indian driving patterns, offering a "peppy" mid-range that ensures highway overtakes are handled with absolute confidence and minimal lag.

3. Level 2 ADAS Suite

Renault has equipped the 2026 Duster with a comprehensive Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) to meet modern safety expectations. This suite uses sophisticated radar and camera sensors to enable Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-Go, Lane Keeping Assist, and Automatic Emergency Braking. 

For Indian highways, these features significantly reduce driver fatigue by maintaining safe distances and providing steering corrections. Complemented by a 360-degree camera, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic sign recognition, the Duster positions itself as a tech-forward leader in active safety for the mass-market SUV space.

4. No AWD Sadly

The India-spec Duster comes with front-wheel drive, tuned for a balance of efficiency, comfort, and traction on varied road surfaces. Renault has optimized the suspension and chassis on racetrack as per its enginnering head so we expect it toi handle well and take care of potholes, monsoon-soaked roads, and light off-road conditions without compromising ride quality.

 Features like hill-start assist, hill-descent control, and a selectable Eco mode enhance stability and grip in challenging conditions..

5. Massive 700-Litre Modular Boot Space

Practicality is a core pillar of the new Duster, evidenced by its cavernous 700-litre boot capacity (measured to the roof) and electric tailgate

 The cargo area features a modular layout with smart hooks and 60:40 split-folding rear seats that can expand the volume even further for oversized items. This focus on utility ensures that despite its premium move, the Duster remains the most "family-friendly" vehicle in a segment often criticized for limited luggage space.

6. In-Built Google OS and Connectivity

The cabin features a 10.1-inch floating touchscreen powered by an in-built Google Assistant. This means users can access Google Maps, Spotify, and other apps directly through the car's interface without needing to connect a smartphone. 

Of course, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also supported for those who prefer them. The system supports Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, ensuring that the infotainment and navigation features remain current. This "always-connected" approach, combined with a 7-inch digital driver’s display

7. Ventilated Seats, Panoramic Sunroof 

Renault has addressed the "utilitarian" criticism of the past by introducing a high-quality, feature-rich interior. The 2026 Duster comes with ventilated front seats, an essential luxury for harsh summers, and a 6-way powered driver seat with lumbar support The dashboard utilizes soft-touch materials with Y-shaped design elements that echo the exterior lighting.

 Additional premium touches include a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control with physical knobs for ease of use, and an Arkamys 3D sound system, elevating the overall cabin experience to rival established luxury leaders.

8. Exclusive "Iconic Edition" 

To celebrate the return of the nameplate, Renault launched a limited-run Iconic Edition. Restricted to 2,026 units, this version features an exclusive Himalayan Green paint scheme accented with yellow contrast stripes and unique mountain-themed graphics.

 It serves as a tribute to the Duster's legacy as an adventure vehicle in India. The Iconic Edition comes pre-loaded with every available feature, including the panoramic roof and the full ADAS suite, making it a high-value "collector’s" trim for enthusiasts who want to stand out from the standard models on the road.

9. India-Specific Design and Lighting

While based on the global model, the India-spec Duster features several unique aesthetic tweaks tailored to local tastes. The most prominent change is the "eyebrow-style" LED DRLs, which replace the Y-shaped units found on the international Dacia version.

 At the rear, the connected LED taillights (joined by a blacked-out bar) are a specific addition for the Indian market to enhance its premium "presence." The SUV also sports flared wheel arches, chunky 18-inch diamond-cut alloys, and a prominent rear diffuser, giving it a wider, more muscular stance that looks aggressive yet modern.

10. Robust CMF-B Platform and Safety

The shift to the CMF-B modular platform provides a much stiffer and safer foundation than the previous generation. This architecture allows for better crash energy absorption and improved NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels, resulting in a significantly quieter cabin. 

Standard safety kit is generous, featuring 6 airbags, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and ISOFIX mounts across most variants. Renault has also announced a 7-year warranty for the new Duster, signaling their confidence in the vehicle's long-term durability and the localized engineering used to withstand India's dust, heat, and challenging road conditions.

Image source- Renault global Media