Renault Duster vs Kia Seltos 2026: Price, Mileage, Features Compared

The 2026 Renault Duster has finally made its return to the Indian SUV market after years of anticipation, going head-to-head with stalwarts like the 2026 Kia Seltos. Both SUVs bring compelling value, contemporary technology, and strong feature lists — but which one is the better pick for you? Let’s compare them across features, pricing, performance, mileage and more.

New Renault Duster 2026 & Kia Seltos 2026 Launch

Renault Duster 2026 has just been unveiled with bookings open and prices expected to be announced around March 2026. It marks a big comeback with multiple petrol engines and a strong hybrid option slated for later.

Kia Seltos 2026 is already launched in India with prices starting at about ₹10.99 lakh (ex-showroom), bringing upgraded design, tech and comfort features.

Engine, Performance & Power

Specification	Renault Duster 2026	Kia Seltos 2026
Engine Options	Turbo petrol, strong hybrid (expected)	Petrol, turbo petrol, diesel
Max Power	~160+ PS	Up to 160 PS
Max Torque	Up to ~280 Nm	Up to 253 Nm
Gearbox	Manual, Automatic	Manual, iMT, IVT, DCT

The Duster's hybrid option is a unique highlight that could offer better city fuel efficiency once launched. Meanwhile the Seltos continues with a versatile ICE lineup and more transmission choices overall.

Image source: Auto Car India

ARAI Mileage Comparison

Real ARAI figures for the new Duster aren’t officially released yet, but it’s expected that the hybrid version will deliver significantly better efficiency in city conditions. The Seltos, with its petrol engines, posts figures around 20.7 km/l ARAI.

SUV	Mileage
Kia Seltos Petrol	~20 km/l (ARAI)
Renault Duster Petrol	Expected similar
Renault Duster Hybrid	Expected higher (city driving)

Features and Tech Comparison

Both SUVs offer strong equipment levels, but their approaches differ:

Renault Duster 2026

• 10.1-inch touchscreen with Google built-in
• 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
• Wireless smartphone connectivity
• Powered and ventilated seats
• Dual-zone climate control
• Powered tailgate
• Level-2 ADAS suite (17+ functions)
• 360° camera
• Rugged interior vibe and practical tech focus — suited for value buyers

Kia Seltos 2026

• Dual 12.3-inch panoramic screens
• Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
• Premium Bose audio system
• Advanced connectivity (OTA updates, digital key)
• Level-2 ADAS (21+ functions)
• More premium space & tech, stronger usage focus for cabin comfort.

Features in common

Both SUVs offer panoramic sunroofs, ventilated seats, ambient lighting, cruise control, stability control, hill assist, TPMS and 360° cameras — meaning you get rich features across both choices.

Price

SUV	Price Range
Renault Duster 2026	Rs 10–22 lakh (expected)
Kia Seltos 2026	Rs 10.99–19.99 lakh

Seltos has its price range established already, starting below ₹11 lakh and topping near ₹20 lakh.

Duster’s pricing is yet to be announced (likely March 2026), but widely expected to compete in a similar segment — possibly slightly above or around the Seltos numbers depending on the variant and hybrid availability.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Both SUVs are loaded with modern safety tech:

• 6 airbags standard on both
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• 360° cameras + sensors
• ADAS (Level 2) with features like Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Warning
• The Seltos tends to have a slightly richer ADAS suite with ~21 functions versus ~17 on the Duster.

Which One Should You Pick? (Quick Guide)

Choose the Renault Duster 2026 if you want:

• Rugged SUV character and bigger torque punch
• Hybrid efficiency (long term fuel savings)
• Practical features like powered tailgate & simpler tech layout
• Potential value pricing with strong warranty offers

Choose the Kia Seltos 2026 if you want:

• More premium cabin experience
• Bigger screens and advanced infotainment
• Proven tech with rich connectivity options
• Slightly earlier delivery & established pricing

Final Verdict

Both the 2026 Renault Duster and Kia Seltos are strong contenders in the mid-size SUV segment.

The Seltos leans towards premium features and tech.

The Duster brings rugged presence, hybrid promise, and value proposition.

Your choice should boil down to what you prioritize more — premium comfort and infotainment (Seltos) or efficient hybrid power and SUV character (Duster).