2026 Renault Duster 7-Seater: The SUV That Could Redefine Budget Family Cars in India
The Renault Duster is one of the most recognizable SUVs in India, known for its rugged performance, spacious cabin, and reliable driving character. While the earlier models were strictly 5-seater versions, the Indian market has been witnessing a strong demand for affordable 7-seater family SUVs. This shift in buyer preference has made the idea of a 7-seater Duster not just exciting but also extremely practical. As the brand prepares for its upcoming launches, expectations around a possible 2026 Renault 7 Seater Duster have grown rapidly.
Although Renault has not officially confirmed every detail yet, strong industry buzz, design leaks, and global developments suggest that the next generation Duster platform can easily support a three-row layout. If the 7-seater model arrives with competitive pricing, it may become one of the most sought-after family SUVs in India.
A Bigger Platform for Three-Row Comfort
The upcoming Duster is expected to be built on the modern CMF-B platform, which supports both 5-seater and 7-seater designs in global markets. This means the 2026 7-seater variant could carry a longer wheelbase, offering additional legroom and more comfortable third-row seating. Unlike compact SUVs that add a cramped third row only for namesake, Renault is likely to focus on making the 7-seater configuration genuinely usable for families.
The overall exterior design of the new Duster is expected to be more muscular, with wide wheel arches, bold LED lighting, skid plates, and a higher roofline. The three-row version will probably have a slightly elongated rear end to accommodate the extra seats without compromising boot space completely.
Modern Interior and Feature Improvements
A modernized cabin is one of the biggest expectations from the 2026 7-seater Duster. Buyers today demand large touchscreens, digital instrument clusters, wireless connectivity, and advanced safety features even in mid-range SUVs. Renault is likely to integrate these updates to match competitors.
Expected interior highlights include:
- A large floating touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Digital instrument cluster
- Automatic climate control
- Rear AC vents
- Cruise control
- High-quality dashboard materials
The cabin layout will likely prioritize practicality, with foldable second and third rows, allowing users to adjust the interior based on passenger and cargo needs.
Engine Options and Performance
The new Renault 7 Seater Duster is expected to offer both petrol and hybrid options internationally, and similar powertrains may reach India. A 1.3-liter turbo-petrol engine producing around 150 PS is expected to be the primary choice, paired with manual and automatic gearbox options. For the 7-seater model, this engine should provide a strong balance between power and economy, especially for long family trips.
Renault may also introduce a mild-hybrid system to improve fuel efficiency, which will be an important factor in the Indian market. The robust suspension setup that the Duster is famous for will likely continue, making it suitable for highways and rough rural roads.
Safety Features
With safety becoming a deciding factor for buyers, the 2026 Duster 7-seater is expected to come with:
- 6 airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Control
- Traction Control
- Rear camera
- Hill-start assist
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
These features can help the model compete strongly with rivals like the Hyundai Alcazar, Kia Carens, and Maruti XL6.
Expected Price and Launch Timeline
While Renault has not officially announced the price OF Renault 7 Seater Duster , industry estimates suggest the 7-seater Duster could start around 11.5 lakh to 17 lakh (ex-showroom) depending on the variant. This will place it competitively within the mid-size 3-row SUV category.
If all goes as expected, the 2026 Renault 7 Seater Duster may launch sometime in late 2025 or early 2026 in India.
