The 2026 Renault Duster has finally been launched, and this time around as well, it has been launched with multiple engine options. Of these, one of the most exciting powertrain options is the 1.3-litre Turbo TCe 160 petrol engine, which is the most powerful turbo petrol engine in the entire mid-size SUV segment. Now, if you are someone who wants to know about the most affordable 2026 Duster variant with this engine, then you have reached the right spot.
Renault is offering the 2026 Duster with the most powerful 1.3-litre Turbo TCe 160 engine starting from its second base Evolution variant. This variant, with this particular engine and 6-speed manual transmission, has been priced at Rs 12.69 lakh, and with the 6-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Automatic) gearbox, it is priced at Rs 13.99 lakh.
Now, coming to the main highlight of this engine, it is the 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine which is capable of producing 163 PS of power and 280 Nm of torque. As mentioned, it is the most powerful mid-size SUV in the segment, beating the likes of the newly launched Tata Sierra, Kia Seltos facelift, segment champion Hyundai Creta, and many others.
The Evolution, as stated, is the most affordable variant with the most popular engine option in the current Duster's lineup. Now, coming to the buyer who should buy it, if you are someone who wants a punchy engine which will offer mind-blowing performance, then you should opt for this variant. It is one of the most value-for-money variants, which offers a strong price-to-performance ratio.
In terms of the exterior design, the Evolution variant of the Duster comes offered with a set of LED headlights, a gloss black front grille with Duster lettering, a matte black front bumper, and a skid plate. It also gets 17-inch alloy wheels, which is an upgrade from the steel wheels offered with the base Authentic variant. Other notable highlights include integrated roof rails, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a shark fin antenna.
On the inside, the second base Evolution variant comes loaded with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless smartphone connectivity, and steering-mounted controls. It also includes cruise control, a speed limiter, a rear-view camera, electric ORVMs, USB ports at the front and rear, rear AC vents, all power windows, and a tilt and telescopic steering wheel.
Its safety features list includes the standard 35 features which are offered on the base Authentic variant. These include six airbags, electronic stability control, ABS, EBD, and many others. In addition to these standard safety features, the Evolution variant also comes with a rear camera and a speed limiter.
In terms of the features which it misses out on when compared to the higher variants, it does not get a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, ventilated seats, connected car tech, an ADAS Level 2 suite, and many others. Currently, the company is taking reservations for the Duster, and the deliveries of this SUV will commence from April. The booking amount of the new Renault Duster is Rs 21,000.