Renault Plans “Mini Duster” to Strengthen Compact SUV Line-up in India

Renault has signaled its intention to re-establish its presence in the Indian market with the debut of the brand new Duster.  However, the technique just isn’t to rely solely on one specific mannequin. Renault is increasing its mannequin lineup in India at a fast tempo, with an goal to launch a minimum of one new mannequin yearly. Underneath this backdrop, there are talks a few new ‘Mini Duster’ that might probably be the second product in this phase from this firm.

Renault has an SUV mannequin named Kiger in the sub-4 meter SUV phase. Nonetheless, the gross sales of the Kiger, even after a serious replace in the center of 2025, will not be assembly the anticipated numbers, with a mean of merely 1,000-1,200 models being offered each month. The key purpose for this may very well be thought-about to be the coupe-style, crossover-type design of the car, which doesn’t match the SUV preferences of consumers in India. That is the place the entry of the Mini Duster turns into essential. This SUV might characteristic a extra upright, boxy, and rugged SUV stance than the Kiger, very like the unique Duster established its identification.

In accordance to studies, this upcoming compact SUV will characteristic an upright and rugged silhouette comparable to the Duster. It might characteristic giant wheels, sturdy physique cladding, and a powerful SUV-like street presence. By way of powertrain, it’s doubtless to characteristic the identical 1.0-liter turbo-petrol HR10 engine because the Kiger, which may very well be provided with handbook and CVT gearbox choices. This SUV is at the moment unnamed, and its launch continues to be awaited.

This new compact SUV will arrive in the market solely after the 7-seater Duster by-product. Subsequently, its anticipated launch is believed to be round 2027–28. The pattern of introducing a second automotive in the compact SUV phase is changing into more and more frequent. Having two fashions in the identical phase with completely different designs and positioning permits firms to attain extra prospects.

Notably after the GST fee revision in 2025, there was renewed curiosity in this phase. Giant volumes and inexpensive pricing are the phase’s largest strengths, and localization will play a key function in this improvement. In a current interview, Renault Model CEO and Chief Development Officer Fabrice Cambolive hinted at this risk, saying it was an excellent thought. It’s clear from this that the corporate needs to strengthen its maintain in this phase.

Additionally Learn: Renault Duster Will get Panoramic Sunroof, Degree-2 ADAS, and 360-Diploma Digital camera