Renault is betting on a strategic leadership change and the revival of a popular model to spearhead its resurgence in the Indian market. The French automaker has appointed Stéphane Deblaise as the CEO of Renault Group in India, effective September 1, 2025. Deblaise, who previously served as CEO of Renault Korea, is tasked with defining and executing the group's strategy in India, with all Renault Group entities in the country reporting to him. Renault hopes Deblaise's appointment will ensure strong leadership and alignment across all activities.
A key element of Renault's India strategy is the comeback of the Duster SUV. The third-generation Duster was officially unveiled in India on January 26, 2026, marking the return of a nameplate that played a significant role in establishing the mid-size SUV segment in the country. The Duster was first introduced in 2012 but was discontinued in 2022. The new Duster represents the first major step in Renault's renewed India strategy under its International Game Plan 2027, with a strong emphasis on localization, electrified petrol powertrains, and advanced in-car technology.
The India-spec Duster features unique design elements compared to the global model, including redesigned LED headlamps with eyebrow-shaped LED DRLs and a connected LED tail-lamp bar. It also boasts a bold silver surround on the front bumper and pixel-style LED fog lamps. The SUV rides on 18-inch black alloy wheels and has functional roof rails capable of supporting up to 50kg. The ground clearance stands at 212mm. Feature highlights are expected to include a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charging, ADAS safety tech, and a 360-degree camera. The India-spec model might also get a panoramic sunroof, which is not available in the global version.
The new Duster is built on Renault's advanced CMF-B platform, which allows for better safety features, improved electronics, and compatibility with modern engines. It is also expected to enhance ride quality, stability, and overall comfort. The 2026 Renault Duster will be available with multiple engine options, including a strong hybrid setup. The 2026 Renault Duster will also be available with a 1.8-litre petrol engine that will get paired with a 1.4 kWh battery pack for strong hybrid technology. Renault claims that this strong hybrid powertrain allows the Duster up to 80% electric-only driving in city conditions. Other engine options include a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine that produces 163hp and 280Nm, as well as a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that puts out 100hp and 160Nm.
Pre-bookings for the new Duster are now open. Renault will announce prices in March 2026, with deliveries of turbo-petrol variants scheduled to begin in April. The strong-hybrid version will follow later in the year, around the Diwali festive season. The Duster is expected to be priced competitively in the mid-size SUV segment, with entry-level variants potentially starting at around Rs 10 lakh to Rs 11 lakh, while top-end hybrid variants may go up to Rs 20 lakh.
In addition to the Duster, Renault has plans to launch other models in India, including the Bigster and Kardian SUVs. The company is also working on an electric vehicle, the Kwid EV, which is expected to launch in June 2027. Renault aims to increase its market share in India to over 3% after these launches and eventually reach 5%. Renault is also focusing on increasing localization and exports from India. The company has acquired full ownership of the Chennai manufacturing plant, which will give them greater control over production planning, exports, and future investments. Renault expects India's manufacturing base and a potential India-EU FTA to strengthen governance, boost exports, and make India a key pillar of its international strategy.
