Renault Duster More Affordable Automatic Variants Launch Soon
by Satya Singh · RushLaneNew Renault Duster is already off to a good start, with cumulative sales crossing 5k units since launch
Renault introduced the all-new Duster in India in March at a starting price of Rs 10.49 lakh. The SUV has quickly entered the top 10 list of bestselling models in the 4.2m to 4.5m mid-size SUV segment. Sales are expected to be higher when the hybrid powertrain option is introduced later this year. Bookings for the Duster hybrid variant are already fully sold out for 2026. For now, Renault is planning to introduce a more accessible automatic variant of the Duster.
Duster new automatic variant – What to expect?
New Duster is currently available with engine options of a 1.0-litre turbo petrol and a 1.3-litre turbo petrol. The 1.0-litre engine is paired with only a 6-speed manual transmission. The larger capacity engine has transmission options of a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed DCT with e-shifter. The strong hybrid 1.8-litre unit (E-Tech 160) is expected later this year.
Starting price of the Duster ‘Authentic’ base variant is Rs 10.49 lakh. The top-spec 1.0-litre manual is available with the ‘Techno’ variant, priced at Rs 13.49 lakh. Automatic option with the new Duster is available with the ‘Evolution’ second base variant onwards. This is offered at a starting price of Rs 14.49 lakh. As is evident, there is a significant price gap between the manual and automatic variants of the new Duster.
It is likely that the decision to introduce a more affordable automatic variant with the Duster is based on market dynamics and consumer feedback. During a recent media drive event, Renault Group India CEO Stephane Deblaise confirmed that they are planning to introduce more affordable automatic variants of the Duster. Deblaise pointed out that many customers have been enquiring about an automatic option with the 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine.
However, Deblaise did not reveal whether the 1.0-litre engine will be getting an automatic transmission option or a new automatic variant will be introduced with the 1.3-litre engine. In terms of pricing, it is possible that the base ‘Authentic’ trim could get a new affordable 1.3-litre automatic option. It is also possible that an automatic option could be introduced with the 1.0-litre turbo petrol variants. Expanding the range of powertrain options will help attract a broader range of buyers.
Tackling big rivals
To boost its prospects, Renault could introduce new powertrain options with the Duster in the future. These will be in addition to the strong hybrid planned for 2026. While the exact options are not officially confirmed, the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP) that the new Duster uses can accommodate CNG and BEV powertrains as well. Whether or not these are considered for India remains to be seen.
Rivals like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and Tata Sierra offer a wide range of powertrain options. These too will be expanding their powertrains, with Creta and Seltos adding hybrid options and the Sierra getting its BEV version soon.