New Renault Duster Tested For 1 Million KM Before India Launch - Details Inside

Renault India has announced a major milestone for the upcoming new-generation Renault Duster, which is one of the most awaited SUVs in the country. This SUV has successfully completed over 1 million kilometres

of testing across three continents, tackling some of the world’s toughest terrains and extreme climates.

Testing

To ensure the Duster can survive any weather, the SUV was tested in temperatures ranging from –23°C to 55°C. These tests included sub-zero snow drives, high-heat desert testing, long highway runs and stop-and-go city traffic. Renault engineers even used dust tunnels, water-wading machines and rough tracks to check how well the SUV is sealed and protected.

This wide range of testing is important because India has all kinds of climates like hot summers, heavy rains and hilly regions, so, Renault wants the SUV to be ready for all of it.

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Conquering the Himalayas

One of the biggest highlights was the Duster’s performance in the Himalayas, as it not only handled the rough mountain paths of Leh-Ladakh, but also climbed all the way to Khardung La, which is one of the world’s highest motorable passes at 18,379 feet.

At such high altitudes, the air gets thinner and engines struggle. But Renault says the Duster performed with confidence, proving it is built for adventure lovers as well as everyday drivers.

Real Indian Roads

Renault also tested the SUV extensively across India, from narrow city streets to rough patches and steep speed breakers. The Duster was also driven on top testing facilities like NATRAX, ARAI, GARC and ICAT, where vehicles are pushed far harder than in normal conditions, which helps engineers tune the suspension, safety and braking to suit India’s unique road conditions.

Global R&D

To ensure the new Duster gets world-class driving dynamics, Renault conducted testing and tuning in multiple countries including Brazil, Romania, France, China and the Czech Republic, which means the SUV is built using global expertise but tuned specially for India.

Stephane Deblaise, CEO of Renault Group India, said the 1 million km journey is more than a test, it’s a commitment. According to him, the new Duster has been pushed to the extremes to ensure it returns to India “fully prepared” for real-world challenges.

Launch On Republic Day 2026

The all-new Renault Duster will make its official debut on 26 January 2026, and the company claims it will offer a balance of rugged strength and modern, comfortable driving.