Aussies go nuts for new cult SUV: 2026 Renault Duster to develop a wait list in Australia as demand grows for Suzuki Jimny and Subaru Crosstrek rival grows

The funky Renault Duster SUV has only just started arriving in Australia but the company has admitted initial supply will be tight.

Speaking with CarsGuide as part of a media roundtable, Renault Australia General Manager Glen Sealey said due to the Duster's cult following the initial batch coming here will likely sell out, creating a wait list.

“Duster will arrive in Australia initially with pretty limited numbers,” said Sealey.

“Our initial production was limited simply because demand for Duster overseas is off the charts.

“It’s one of the top sellers in Europe outright and we’re lucky to secure initial allocation early.

“But we also didn’t want to wait until next year for the volume of the vehicle to get a bigger allocation.

“So customers have been pleading with us to bring the Duster to Australia, but what that means is we will likely sell out of the first shipment of Duster quite quickly.

“In fact, if the response from customers… and dealers is any indication, I suspect Dusters will develop a waiting list in no time.

“And to that end, our message to the customers is… please be patient.

“We’re working with the factory to get a larger allocation for Duster from early next year and we appreciate the patience,” he said.

In Australia the Renault Duster is only being offered in three variants – Evolution 4x2 and 4x4, as well as Techno 4x2.

The flagship Duster Techno 4x4 will start arriving locally around December 2025.

At this time Sealey believes the expected wait list for the Duster will subside.

“We’d like to think later in the year [or] next year… that we can meet demand,” said Sealey.

Pricing for the Renault Duster in Australia currently starts from $31,990, before on-roads, and extends to $37,990, before on-roads.

Two-wheel drive versions are powered by a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine which produces 113kW of power and 270Nm of torque. This is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

All-wheel drive versions are powered by a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol three-cylinder engine featuring 48V mild-hybrid assistance and total system outputs of 96kW/230Nm. It’s matched exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox.

A full-hybrid powertrain is offered in the Dacia version of this car in other markets, but it’s not currently available and won’t be coming to Australia for the foreseeable future.