2026 Renault Duster Spotted During Himalayan Testing: Maruti Gypsy Comes to the Rescue
The highly anticipated 2026 Renault Duster has been making headlines as it nears its official India debut. In a recent series of sightings, the third-generation SUV was spotted undergoing rigorous high-altitude testing in the upper reaches of the Himalayas. These tests are a standard procedure for new vehicles to ensure uncompromising performance under extreme weather conditions and thin air.
The Rohtang Pass Incident: A Viral Rescue
A particularly notable instance of these trials occurred near Rohtang Pass in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. A video surfaced online showing a heavily camouflaged test mule—likely the 2026 Renault Duster or its Nissan sibling, the Tekton—becoming stranded in thick snow.
Due to the deep snow, the vehicle’s tires lost traction, making it impossible to move under its own power. In a classic display of “old-school” reliability, an old Maruti Gypsy was used to rescue the modern SUV. The lightweight off-roader was connected to the test mule via a tow rope and successfully pulled it out onto a clear patch of road. While such incidents are common during winter testing in the Himalayas, the video has sparked significant discussion among automotive enthusiasts regarding the real-world capabilities of the upcoming model.
What to Expect from the 2026 Renault Duster in India
The new-gen Duster marks a major comeback for Renault in the mid-size SUV segment after a hiatus of approximately four years. Built on the localized CMF-B platform, the India-spec model will feature several unique elements compared to the global version.
Key Expected Specifications
- Launch Date: Renault is expected to unveil the 2026 Duster on January 26, 2026.
- Powertrain Options: Initially, the lineup is expected to be petrol-only, featuring a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine (approximately 156 hp) and a 1.2-litre mild-hybrid unit. A 4×4 drivetrain is anticipated for higher trims.
- Design: The SUV retains a muscular stance with Y-shaped LED DRLs and squared-off wheel arches.
- Interiors: The cabin will include a 10.1-inch floating touchscreen, a 7-inch digital driver display, and a panoramic sunroof.
- Safety: Expected to feature six standard airbags, ADAS, and a 360-degree camera.
The Nissan Derivative: The Tekton
Sharing the same platform and underpinnings is Nissan’s version of the SUV, dubbed the Nissan Tekton. While it shares core components with the Duster, it will feature distinct styling inspired by the larger Nissan Patrol. The Tekton is slated for an official debut in February 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 Renault Duster launching in India? The 2026 Renault Duster is scheduled for its official India reveal on January 26, 2026.
Will there be a diesel engine option for the new Duster? Current reports indicate that the 2026 Duster will likely be offered as a petrol-only model, with no diesel variant planned.
What is the expected price of the 2026 Renault Duster? Analysts anticipate a starting price range between Rs 11 lakh and Rs 19 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the variant.
Why was the test mule rescued by a Maruti Gypsy? During high-altitude testing at Rohtang Pass, the test mule lost traction in deep snow. The Maruti Gypsy, a lightweight and capable off-roader frequently used in the region, was employed as a recovery vehicle to tow the SUV to safety.
What is the Nissan Tekton? The Tekton is Nissan’s sibling to the Renault Duster, built on the same CMF-B platform but featuring unique Nissan-specific design elements.
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