The new Duster is powered by two advanced E20-compatible turbo-petrol engines for a perfect mix of efficiency and punch.

The entry-level TCe 100 is a responsive 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit producing 99 hp and 166 Nm of torque, paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission.

For stronger performance, the flagship TCe 160 engine features a 1.3-litre four-cylinder delivering 161 hp and 280 Nm, available with the 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DCT with e-shifter and paddle shifters.

ARAI-certified mileage figures for the Turbo TCe 160 engine show the DCT automatic returning 18.45 km/l, while the 6-speed manual delivers 17.75 km/l, both figures comfortably class-leading for a 161 hp turbo-petrol SUV.

Renault has not announced the ARAI fuel efficiency figures for the smaller 1.0-litre turbo petrol unit yet.

Also note that the upcoming strong-hybrid E-Tech 160 (1.8-litre + battery) is expected to deliver significantly higher efficiency when it arrives later in 2026.

The new Duster's cabin features a redesigned dashboard and a more premium layout. Base variants get black seat upholstery with grey stitching, a 7-inch TFT driver display, manual AC with rear vents, a sliding armrest, and 60:40 split-folding rear seats.

Higher variants add a 10.1-inch openR Link infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 6-speaker Arkamys audio system, electrically adjustable ORVMs, and a parcel shelf.

If you prefer Dolby Atmos, then you may check out these cars that come with one.

From the mid variants onwards, the cabin gets brown upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, and cooled storage (DCT).

Top variants add mountain jade leatherette upholstery, ventilated and electrically adjustable front seats, a 10.25-inch TFT driver display, Google built-in, 48-colour ambient lighting, Multi-Sense drive modes, an upgraded Arkamys sound system, and a PM2.5 air filter with ioniser.

All variants also get practical features such as glovebox illumination, a luggage lamp, coat hooks, and multiple USB-C ports.

The new Duster features a bold, muscular design where its signature grille with prominent Duster emblem, LED daytime running lights, LED tail lamps, and high-mounted stop lamp are standard.

Meanwhile, the higher variants add full LED headlamps, LED front fog lamps, puddle lamps, LED rear fog lamps, and a striking horizontal rear light bar.

Complementing the exterior lighting, the profile is defined by 17-inch steel or “Ocean” alloy wheels come on lower and mid variants, while top variants get stylish 18-inch “Outback” diamond-cut or “Adventure” black alloys.

Black fixed roof rails (50 kg capacity), rear roof spoiler, shark-fin antenna, front & rear skid plates, and reinforced wheel arches enhance the SUV's rugged appeal.

The top variant further differentiates itself through specialized detailing, such as Himalayan-inspired side embellishers, specific yellow door decals on roof bars, and unique yellow accents on the Duster emblem.

The Duster comes with six airbags, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, ESP, traction control, cornering stability control, TPMS, ISOFIX child seat anchors, three-point seat belts for all seats, seat belt reminders, rear occupant alert, and speed warning as standard across all variants.

Higher variants add ADAS features such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Alert, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Automatic High Beam, among others. They also get a 360-degree camera.

Other safety features include a rearview camera, front and side parking sensors on select variants, emergency stop signal, impact-sensing door unlock, and rear child locks.

Notably, it has not been officially tested by Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP yet, however the old Duster had scored 4 stars in Global NCAP in some markets.

The new Duster closely competes with the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara.

The Creta offers more engine options, including a diesel, along with Hyundai's wider service network. The Duster, in return, offers higher ground clearance (212 mm), a larger boot (up to 518 litres), and more torque from its turbo-petrol engine.

The Seltos offers more transmission choices and additional cabin features. The Duster counters with higher ground clearance, a larger boot, higher turbo-petrol torque, while matching it on features like dual screens and ADAS.

The Grand Vitara offers strong-hybrid and mild-hybrid powertrains, a factory-fitted CNG option, and Maruti Suzuki's extensive service network. The Duster stands out with higher ground clearance, a larger boot, and more powerful turbo-petrol engines.