Next-gen Renault Duster begins road tests ahead of debut

The spy images show that the India-bound Duster shares its design language with the Dacia Bigster concept.

Published On Mar 15, 2023 12:25:00 PM

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The first-ever spy shots of the upcoming Renault Duster have surfaced online. While the first-generation Duster was launched in 2013, India never got the second-generation model. Expect the third-generation Duster to make its debut here in 2025.

New Renault Duster will debut in India in 2025
Will get 5- and 7-seat configuration

New Renault Duster: what do the spy shots show?

The third-generation Duster, as seen in the spy shots, looks similar to the Dacia Bigster concept SUV from 2021. While the entire front fascia is not visible, we can make out that it will have thin LED headlights and a boxy, flat design for the bonnet.

The Dacia Bigster concept debuted in 2021.

Over to the sides, the upcoming Duster has pull-type door handles at the front, while the rear door handles seem to be integrated into the C-pillar. The third generation of the SUV will continue with a squarish design for the wheel arches.

It's at the rear where the similarities with the Bigster concept become more apparent. The spy shots show a boomerang-shaped tail-lamp housing and a twin pod-style spoiler. Even the position of the number plate's indentation is similar to the Bigster concept.

New Renault Duster: what we know so far

The upcoming Renault Duster will be based on a heavily-localised CMF-B modular platform – jointly developed by Renault and Nissan – and will also have a Nissan-branded version. While the standard version of the Duster will come with five seats, it is also expected to have a 7-seat version as well.

At the moment, the Duster will only get an ICE powertrain in India as Renault-Nissan plan to introduce their EV powertrain with an A-segment vehicle – likely a Kwid EV.

Once it reaches the market in 2025, the third-generation Duster’s 5-seat version will compete with the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. The 7-seat version of the Duster is expected to rival the Hyundai Alcazar, Kia Carens and MG Hector Plus.