Renault Stops Production Of The Duster, New-Generation SUV Expected In 2023

• The first-gen Duster has existed in India since 2012. 

• Currently priced from Rs 9.86 lakh to Rs 14.25 lakh (ex-showroom). 

• Renault skipped the second-gen model in India

• Will likely be succeeded by the third-gen Duster in 2023. 

• Renault will continue operations with the Kwid, Triber, and Kiger. 

Renault has stopped the first-gen Duster’s production in India after nearly a decade of its launch. Replacing it will be the third-generation Duster, expected to arrive sometime in 2023. 

The first-gen Duster is available from Rs 9.86 lakh to Rs 14.25 lakh (as long as stocks last). 

Global second-generation Renault Duster for reference 

The first-generation Duster was a global compact SUV launched in India in mid-2012. While other countries got the second-generation Duster in 2017, Renault skipped the second-gen Duster in India. Instead, the first-generation Duster received a BS6 update and its second facelift in the last couple of years. It has been popular with petrolheads owing to the off-road utility of its all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and more recently, its turbo petrol engine. 

But newer rivals such as the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, and the Skoda Kushaq offer more advanced infotainment and safety equipment than the ageing Duster. You can even get driver assistance features in the new MG Astor compact SUV! In comparison, the Duster looks and feels outdated, even for its relatively lower price. 

Also read: 

• Renault Bigster Concept Unveiled, Could Preview New India-bound SUV

• February 2022 Offers On Renault Kiger, Duster, Triber, And Kwid 

• Facelifted Second-gen Renault Duster Unveiled In Europe 

It’s not surprising that the Duster’s sales have been dwindling over the last few years. Now that its production has ended, Renault will continue to focus its efforts on the existing Kiger sub-4m SUV, Triber MPV, and the Kwid hatchback. 

There have been no official announcements about an upcoming replacement for the Renault Duster. But we reckon the carmaker will skip the second generation and bring the third-generation Duster to India at a premium over the existing model. The upcoming Duster could also be offered with electrified powertrains.