Two More Renault Dusters Launching In 2027
Written By: Neeraj Padmakumar Published: October 19, 2026 at 11:38 AM
Renault on Saturday (October 17th) launched the much-awaited Duster hybrid in India. The mid-size SUV now has three powertrains on offer. According to our sources, the Duster family will grow further in the coming years. At least two more models will launch next year—a more affordable automatic and a CNG. Here’s everything we know.
Duster 1.0 Turbo-Petrol AT
Automatic transmissions are becoming increasingly popular in the mid-size SUV segment. Even though the new Duster is available with two turbo-petrol (non-hybrid) engine options—1.0L turbo and 1.3L turbo—only the 1.3L engine is available with an automatic transmission. The strong hybrid version comes with an 8-speed DHT automatic transmission, but that’s a different case.
The 1.3L turbo-petrol engine can be had with a dual-clutch DCT automatic transmission, available from the second variant (Evolution) onwards. The most affordable automatic variant now costs Rs 14.49 lakh, ex-showroom.
Renault now plans to introduce more affordable automatic variants on the new Duster. Most likely, the company will introduce a CVT automatic option on the 1.0L turbo variants. This is essentially the same engine that does duty on the Kiger, offered with the choice of a manual and CVT automatic transmissions. A similar approach can be taken in the case of Duster as well.
The 1.0L turbo-petrol variants are targeted at value and budget-conscious customers, now offered only with a manual transmission. In other words, the budget-conscious buyer would need to opt for the Evolution DCT if they want an automatic. The introduction of a CVT could solve this problem. Being a cheaper, more fuel-efficient automatic box than a DCT, the CVT would have significant appeal. Renault would also be able to price these variants competitively. More importantly, budget-bound buyers would not have to settle for a manual.
Yes, a CVT transmission comes with its own set of limitations—the whining or rubberband effect being the most common. But it is not unheard of in the segment. Rivals like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos already offer CVT automatic transmissions with their 1.5L naturally aspirated engines. These variants are in good demand as well.
In a previous interaction, Renault’s senior management had confirmed that a more affordable automatic was already in the works. He did not provide any further details then. Our sources within the company have now given us a clearer picture.
Duster 1.0 Turbo CNG
The second Duster to expect next year is a CNG-powered version. We are in the age of turbo-CNGs—bi-fuel cars based on turbo-petrol engines. The Duster is likely to follow the same format. Its CNG version will use the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine as its base.
The third-generation Duster is based on Renault Group’s RGMP platform, a modular, multi-energy platform that can comfortably accommodate different powertrains and fuel options. The CNG version will use the same. More importantly, this platform can accommodate an underbody CNG tank. A similar arrangement can be seen in the case of the RGEP platform, used in models like the Kiger and Triber.
The RGMP is a much superior platform, offering significantly better packaging efficiency. The underbody gas storage setup could use two interconnected cylinders instead of a single, large unit. This layout will ensure that the boot space remains relatively uncompromised. The Duster, if you recall, has the largest boot in its class—518 litres.