The competition in the midsize SUV segment is getting interesting with the arrival of new models such as the Tata Sierra and next-gen Kia Seltos. In March 2026, two more products will join the bandwagon – the Skoda Kushaq facelift and the third-gen Renault Duster, challenging the dominance of the Hyundai Creta. Here’re the key details and expected price range of both upcoming SUVs.

New Skoda Kushaq 2026 Facelift

Pre-bookings for the updated Kushaq are already underway at a token sum of Rs 15,000, while deliveries are slated to begin in March with the official price announcement. Skoda’s Chakan facility is serving as a production hub for the SUV. The new Skoda Kushaq receives noticeable design changes including revised front and rear bumpers, redesigned headlamps, new alloy wheels and rear LED light bar.

Inside, the new Kushaq features a panoramic sunroof, a new digital driver’s display, rear seat massager, 6-way powered front seats with ventilation, a 6-speaker sound system, a wireless charging pad, leatherette seats, wireless smartphone connectivity, front parking sensors and more.

The engine setup remains unchanged; however, the old 6-speed automatic transmission is replaced by a new 8-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox. The new transmission is available with the 115bhp, 10L turbo petrol engine only. The 1.5L TSI petrol-powered variants get rear disc brakes.

New Renault Duster 2026

The all-new Renault Duster will initially be offered with the two turbocharged petrol engine options – a 100bhp, 1.0L and a 163bhp, 1.3L. The latter will be reserved for the higher trims. The Duster hybrid will join the lineup before Diwali 2026, featuring a 109bhp, 1.8L petrol engine + a 1.4kWh battery + a 49bhp electric motor + a 20bhp hybrid starter generator. It will be the most powerful turbo-petrol and hybrid vehicle in its segment.

The new Renault Duster carries a more mature and modern design language than its predecessor. In fact, its interior is far more premium and feature-loaded than its previous generation. The SUV offers a dual screen setup, 6-way powered and ventilated front seats, wireless phone charger, a panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, TPMS, ADAS and more.