The new Renault Duster is already off to a good start, with cumulative sales crossing 5k units since launch
Renault launched the all-new Duster in India in March at a starting price of Rs 10.49 lakh. This SUV has joined the top 10 list of best-selling models in the 4.2 meter to 4.5 meter medium-sized SUV segment. Sales are expected to be higher when the hybrid powertrain option is introduced later this year. Bookings for the Duster Hybrid variant for 2026 have already been completed. Currently, Renault is planning to introduce a more affordable automatic variant of the Duster.
New automatic version of Duster – what to expect?
The new Duster is currently available with 1.0-litre turbo petrol and 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine options. The 1.0-litre engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission only. The large capacity engine has transmission options of 6-speed manual and 6-speed DCT with e-shifter. The stronger hybrid 1.8-litre unit (E-Tech 160) is expected to arrive later this year.
The Duster ‘Authentic’ base variant starts at Rs 10.49 lakh. The top-spec 1.0-litre manual is available with the ‘Techno’ variant, priced at Rs 13.49 lakh. The automatic option with the new Duster is available with the second base variant of ‘Evolution’. It has been offered at a starting price of Rs 14.49 lakh. As is obvious, there is a huge price difference between the manual and automatic variants of the new Duster.
It is likely that the decision to introduce a more affordable automatic variant with the Duster is based on market dynamics and consumer response. During a recent media drive event, Renault Group India CEO Stéphane DeBlaze confirmed that they are planning to introduce a more affordable automatic variant of the Duster. DeBlaze revealed that many customers are inquiring about the automatic option with the 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine.
However, DeBlaze did not specify whether the 1.0-litre engine would get an automatic transmission option or whether a new automatic variant would be introduced with the 1.3-litre engine. In terms of pricing, it’s possible that the base ‘Authentic’ trim may get a new affordable 1.3-litre automatic option. It is also possible that an automatic option may be offered with the 1.0-litre turbo petrol variant. Expanding the range of powertrain options will help attract a wider range of buyers.
Dealing with bigger rivals
To boost its prospects, Renault may introduce new powertrain options with the Duster in the future. These will be in addition to the stronger hybrid planned for 2026. Although the exact options have not been officially confirmed, the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP) that the new Duster uses can also accommodate CNG and BEV powertrains. It remains to be seen whether these are considered for India or not.
Rivals like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and Tata Sierra offer a wide range of powertrain options. These will also be expanding their powertrains, with the Creta and Seltos adding hybrid options and the Sierra getting a BEV version soon.