French carmaker Renault ended the production of the India-spec Duster SUV in early 2022, with no indication of its return. However, sources and reports suggest that Renault is contemplating an all-new Duster that will feature the new CMF-B platform. In India, the Duster has been known as the product that kick-started the mid-size SUV segment with huge success. Sadly, Renault could not keep up with the ever-growing and ever-evolving competition due to the Duster not getting updated enough.
Expected changes on the new Duster
Insiders and sources suggest that Renault is not done with the Duster brand and has plans for renewing the SUV. Reportedly, Renault is planning on creating an all-new car from the ground up that will feature cutting-edge styling and technology. Reports claim that the automaker may introduce the Duster by 2023 or 2024 with a high price-to-feature ratio. The previous India-spec Duster utilised Renault’s B-Zero platform that underpinned other vehicles like the Loga, Lodgy, and the Captur.
However, sources claim that the all-new Duster will reportedly use the CMF-B as its platform that underpins Renault’s current portfolio. This step shares familiarity with Volkswagen’s concept of sharing its MQB-A0-IN platform with its Czech counterpart, Skoda, in India. Therefore, the all-new Duster may utilise the lower-spec yet affordable CMF-B LS platform in order to better conform with Indian-road conditions. Insiders also claim that the all-new Duster will reportedly adhere to the latest global safety and emission norms.
Continuing the Duster’s iconic traits
Sources suggest Renault will work actively to ensure that the 3rd-generation Duster will remain affordable whilst being thoroughly modern. To continue its legacy, Renault will reportedly implement key design elements on the all-new Duster, inspired by the sister-car Bigster. The all-new Duster will reportedly feature flared wheel arches, squared-off fenders, an integrated headlight, and a front grille from the Bigster. Additionally, reports claim that Renault may introduce hybrid powertrains on the new Duster to replace the old diesel powertrains.
This decision will greatly aid the Duster if it does arrive in India as Renault has stopped manufacturing diesel engines. However, it is quite unclear if Renault may introduce a 4X4 version of the all-new Duster in India. This is due to the fact that the automaker managed to sell only a handful of 4X4 Duster’s in India. Renault has not yet made any signings of introducing the new Duster in India but is carrying out several evaluations.
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