Renault has made a big splash with the debut of the new-gen Duster for the Indian market. The reborn midsize SUV sports a butch design echoing the original Duster, capable and future-ready powertrains, and an extensive list of creature comforts. However, there are a few lapses that prevent the 2026 Duster from being the complete midsize SUV package, and we’ve laid them out below.
1. Sparse amenities for rear passengers
Rivals offer rear sunshades, two-step recline functions, boss mode, and more
Thanks to goodies such as powered and ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting and a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, first-row occupants are catered to quite well in the new Duster. At the back, though, things could’ve been better. Space in the Duster’s second row is just about adequate for taller passengers, falling short of segment benchmarks like the Tata Sierra and Kia Seltos.
While rear-seat comfort is good and the panoramic sunroof brings lots of light into the cabin, features such as rear sunshades, a two-step recline function, and a boss mode that allows rear occupants to slide the front passenger seat forward are missing in the 2026 Duster. Rear-seat ventilation, though uncommon in mass-market cars, also could’ve helped the new Duster gain an edge over its rivals.
2. No AWD option at launch
Somewhat contradicts Duster’s rugged perception
Among the most decried omissions in the 2026 Duster is an all-wheel-drive layout, especially since the prior-gen model offered the option. Moreover, three of the Duster’s rivals are available with AWD, namely the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Victoris and Toyota Hyryder. The Tata Sierra will also get an AWD option in 2027.
Renault’s choice to omit AWD from the 2026 Duster isn’t all that surprising. AWD variants account for a minuscule portion of midsize SUV sales, as most buyers don’t really venture off-road, negating the need for additional hardware.
What community is saying on the Duster?
Still, given the Duster’s history and tough, outdoorsy image – Renault quotes a 212mm ground clearance, a 26.9-degree approach angle and a 34.7-degree departure angle – an AWD option for the new-gen model would’ve been a compelling proposition for enthusiasts. The platform underpinning the new Duster does support AWD as the layout is offered in the global-spec model, so here’s hoping Renault takes the feedback into account and adds an AWD option for the India-spec Duster in the future.
3. Lack of a diesel engine
Old Duster’s K9K diesel motor was a highlight
One of the most beloved aspects of the original Duster was its 1.5-litre ‘K9K’ diesel engine, the punchiness of which belied its modest 110hp output. For the 2026 Duster, though, there is no diesel engine on offer. This is quite the missed opportunity, given that diesel engines are still quite popular in the midsize SUV segment; major contenders like the Creta, Seltos and Sierra offer diesel powertrains.
Renault has attempted to allay the loss of a diesel mill with a brand-new 160hp 1.8-litre strong hybrid powertrain for the 2026 Duster, which should help deliver great fuel efficiency. The Duster hybrid will launch sometime around Diwali this year, but many buyers remain enamoured with diesel engines for their effortless punch.
All told, the 2026 Duster is an incredibly strong offering and signifies a renewed commitment to the Indian market from Renault. Interestingly, Renault has indicated that the new Duster is a "starting point" and the company will continually evaluate customer feedback to implement in updates throughout the SUV's lifecycle. It should be interesting to see if many of the points listed above will be addressed in future updates for the new Duster.
Uday Singh
Glenn Noronha
Dipan Sur
