Renault Duster Reborn: Automaker Bets on Popular SUV to Revive Indian Fortunes
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Renault is refocusing its strategy in India with the launch of a new generation Duster SUV, hoping to reverse years of declining market share. While the Renault brand enjoys success in Europe, it has struggled to gain traction in India, where the Duster name itself holds more recognition than the parent company.
A History of Success and Setbacks
The Duster first entered the Indian market in 2012, quickly becoming a key driver of growth for the French automaker – seven years after its initial entry into the country. It is credited with popularizing the trend of medium-sized SUVs with a self-supporting body. However, sales began to decline after 2020, coinciding with the discontinuation of the popular 1.5L turbo diesel K9K engine. Production for local markets ceased at the Chennai, Tamil Nadu factory in early 2022. Between the fiscal years 2016-2017 and 2024-2025, sales plummeted from over 135,000 units (4.43% market share) to less than 38,000 units (0.88% market share).
A New Strategy for a Growing Market
Renault unveiled the new Duster on India’s Republic Day, January 26th, based on the third generation Dacia Duster. This launch marks a significant shift in strategy, with the company now targeting India’s growing middle class. “Our strategy earlier was to reach out to all Indians. That’s not my strategy,” stated a senior official, quoted by Reuters. “I am targeting the middle class that is growing in India and wants cars that are attractive but competitively priced.”
Distinctive Design and Enhanced Features
The Indian-market Renault Duster diverges from its Dacia counterpart, featuring more pronounced visual changes. The front fascia boasts redesigned, fully LED headlights and prominent “Duster” lettering. Similar updates are found at the rear, with LED lamps connected by a glowing red line. Inside, the dashboard has been redesigned to align more closely with Renault’s aesthetic, incorporating a combined instrument panel and central infotainment display powered by Google-based openR Link technology.
Technical Specifications and Engine Options
While built on a modified version of the CMF-B platform – adapted for India’s challenging road conditions – the new Duster will not initially offer a diesel or all-wheel drive option. Engine choices include a 1.3-liter TCe 160 producing 163 hp and 280 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, and a 1.0-liter TCe 100 with 100 hp and 160 Nm, offered with a six-speed manual. Notably, the Duster is the first Renault vehicle in India to offer a hybrid powertrain – the E-Tech 160 – featuring a 1.4 kWh battery and promising up to 80% electric driving in city conditions.
The vehicle also incorporates advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and a 360° camera system, aligning with European safety standards. Top-tier trims will include luxury features like ventilated front seats, an electric sunroof, and remote access applications.
Ambitious Sales Targets and Future Plans
Renault anticipates annual sales of 130,000-140,000 units of the new Duster, according to reports from unnamed parts subcontractors. The success of the Duster is considered critical to the brand’s future in the Indian market. The automaker also plans to introduce a larger model, potentially a redesigned Dacia Bigster, and an unspecified electric vehicle. Furthermore, the Duster will also be sold under the Nissan brand in India, rebranded as the “Tekton.”
According to François Provost, who took over the reins of the Renault group last year, he hopes to achieve a 5% market share in India’s six million-unit market. “I’d be thrilled if we had 5% of a six million dollar market,” he said. Analysts predict that focusing on high-growth markets like India is crucial for Renault’s future success, as growth in established European markets is expected to be limited.
