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Hyundai Creta has been leading the sales charts ever since its arrival in the Indian market. Recently, the facelifted version of this midsize SUV, introduced earlier this year, achieved the milestone of one lakh sales, with an average of over 550 units sold per day. Attributes such as its feature-packed and premium interior, multiple powertrain options, and great resale value have consistently worked in its favor. Despite strong competition and multiple contenders in the segment, the Creta continues to dominate. The competition, however, is set to become fiercer with the arrival of two new midsize SUVs from Renault and Nissan.
Renault has confirmed the launch of the third-generation Duster for India. However, its official launch date and details are yet to be revealed. The midsize SUV is likely to hit showrooms sometime next year. The 2025 Renault Duster will be based on the CMF-B platform and take its design inspiration from the Dacia Bigster. The SUV will feature a newly designed front grille, a pronounced air dam with fog lamps, and slim headlamps with Y-shaped LED DRLs at the front. Dual-tone alloy wheels, squared wheel arches, roof rails, and side cladding will contribute to its muscular side profile. The rear door handles will be integrated into the C-pillar. At the back, the new Duster will feature Bigster-like Y-shaped LED taillamps and a pronounced skid plate.
The interior of the 2025 Renault Duster will undoubtedly be more upmarket than its predecessor. The SUV will include a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a 7-inch digital driver’s display, a 6-speaker Arkamys 3D sound system, wireless phone charging, and cruise control. Its safety features will also see significant upgrades. The new Renault Duster will come equipped with six airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, an electronic parking brake, hill assist, electronic stability control, and ADAS technology.
The powertrain details of the India-specific new Duster are yet to be disclosed. In global markets, the SUV is offered with multiple engine options, including a petrol mild hybrid (130PS, 1.2L turbo petrol engine with 48V mild hybrid tech), a strong hybrid (140PS, 1.6L petrol engine with two electric motors and a 1.2kWh battery pack), and a petrol LPG variant.
Nissan’s upcoming midsize SUV will be based on the third-generation Renault Duster, sharing its platform, features, powertrains, and components with its sibling. However, its design and styling will be entirely distinct from the new Duster. Reports suggest that the new Nissan SUV will incorporate some design elements from the Magnite subcompact SUV.
The SUV will be built on the modular CMF-B platform, which is lighter and more rigid than its predecessor. This platform supports various powertrains (including electric technologies) and advanced driving aids. It also meets modern fuel efficiency and crash test standards. The new Nissan midsize SUV is expected to launch by March 2025, with prices likely starting from Rs 10 lakh. Additionally, Nissan plans to introduce a three-row version of its new midsize SUV, based on the new Duster. This 7-seater variant is expected to debut in the second half of 2025.