New Renault Duster review - Ticks all the right boxes

Introduction

The return of the Renault Duster has always carried a certain emotional weight in the Indian automotive landscape. When the original Duster first arrived, it redefined what a compact SUV could be—rugged, practical and surprisingly capable both on and off the road. The latest iteration carrying the 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine with a manual gearbox taps into that same spirit, but with a more refined and modern character.

At its heart lies the energetic turbocharged motor paired with a proper six-speed manual transmission, a combination that immediately appeals to enthusiasts who still enjoy the tactile engagement of shifting gears themselves. In a market increasingly dominated by automatics and CVTs, this version of the Duster feels refreshingly old-school in the best possible way. It promises strong performance, solid road manners and the kind of durability that built the Duster’s reputation in the first place.

​Renault Duster Design

The Duster has never been about flamboyance. Instead, its design language focuses on toughness and purpose. The upright stance, broad shoulders and high ground clearance instantly communicate that this SUV means business. The front fascia features a wide grille flanked by sharp headlamps, giving the car a confident and slightly aggressive expression.

Muscular wheel arches and chunky cladding continue along the sides, reinforcing the SUV’s rugged character. The strong shoulder line running across the length of the vehicle adds visual strength, while the tall glasshouse ensures excellent outward visibility.

From the rear, the design remains clean and functional with bold tail lamps and a high-set bumper that hints at the car’s off-road capability. The Duster doesn’t chase design trends; instead, it focuses on a robust aesthetic that has aged remarkably well.

Interiors

Step inside and the cabin immediately feels practical and thoughtfully laid out. The dashboard follows a straightforward design philosophy with controls placed exactly where you expect them to be. The materials used feel durable and built to withstand daily use, which aligns perfectly with the Duster’s adventurous personality.

The centre console houses a touchscreen infotainment system along with physical controls for climate functions, making it easy to operate while driving. The steering wheel feels chunky in the hands and adds to the SUV-like driving feel.

Storage spaces are plentiful, with large door pockets, a deep centre console and multiple cubby holes scattered throughout the cabin. The overall layout may not be overly flashy, but it is functional, comfortable and clearly designed with real-world usage in mind.

Back Seat and Boot

One of the Duster’s biggest strengths has always been its practicality, and the rear seat area continues that tradition. The back seat offers generous legroom and decent headroom, thanks to the SUV’s upright proportions. The wide bench easily accommodates three passengers, making it well suited for family use.

The seating position in the rear is slightly elevated, giving passengers a good view of the road ahead. The cushioning strikes a nice balance between comfort and support, making longer journeys far more pleasant.

Moving to the boot, the Duster delivers a large and usable cargo space. The wide opening and low loading lip make it easy to load bulky luggage, while the square shape ensures that space is used efficiently. Whether it’s weekend travel bags or outdoor gear, the boot feels ready for serious utility.

Ride and Handling

The Duster has long been admired for its ride quality, and this latest version continues to uphold that reputation. The suspension is tuned to absorb rough roads with remarkable composure. Broken tarmac, potholes and uneven surfaces are handled with ease, giving the car a planted and reassuring feel.

Even at higher speeds, the SUV maintains impressive stability. The steering offers a good sense of weight and communicates the road surface reasonably well, allowing the driver to feel confident while navigating corners.

Where the Duster really shines is on challenging terrain. The long-travel suspension and robust chassis allow it to tackle bad roads without breaking a sweat. It feels like a car that has been engineered with real-world driving conditions in mind rather than just smooth city streets.

Performance

The highlight of this version is undoubtedly the 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine paired with the manual gearbox. This engine delivers a strong surge of power once the turbo spools up, giving the Duster an energetic and enthusiastic character.

Acceleration feels brisk, especially in the mid-range where the turbocharger comes alive. Overtaking on highways requires minimal effort, and the engine feels eager to pull through the rev range.

The six-speed manual gearbox adds to the driving experience. The shifts feel precise and mechanical, giving the driver a direct connection to the car. Enthusiasts will particularly appreciate how well the engine and gearbox complement each other.

Despite its strong performance, the engine remains reasonably refined. Vibrations are well controlled, and the motor feels smooth when cruising at highway speeds. The turbo engine transforms the Duster from a simple utilitarian SUV into something genuinely enjoyable to drive.

Summary

The Renault Duster with the 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine and manual gearbox captures the essence of what made the nameplate so popular in the first place. It combines rugged SUV styling, excellent ride comfort and genuine driving engagement.

While many modern SUVs prioritize technology and flashy design, the Duster focuses on fundamentals—strong performance, robust construction and everyday practicality. The turbo engine adds a layer of excitement that makes it appealing not just as a family vehicle but also as a driver’s car.

For those who appreciate a capable SUV with a mechanical connection to the road, the manual turbo Duster remains a compelling choice. It may not shout the loudest in the segment, but it quietly delivers exactly what many enthusiasts are still searching for: a tough, honest and enjoyable SUV.