Cult affordable off-roader lands in Australia: 2025 Renault Duster variants locked in for local arrival to take the fight to 2026 Suzuki Jimny and Subaru Crosstrek

Renault has finally confirmed its Duster SUV will launch in Australia this July.

The Duster is a re-badged version of the hit affordable off-roader from its Dacia sister brand in Europe. Renault in Australia has long suggested it would bring the Duster to our market via its local importer, Ateco.

Renault Australia said the Duster’s rugged and boxy exterior appearance is matched by genuine off-road ability. The brand is also working on a range of optional accessories for adventurous buyers.

Some of those accessories include a Rhino-Rack rooftop tent and awning, as well as a modular roof platform.

The Duster will arrive in two variants: a base two-wheel drive version powered by a 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 113kW/250Nm mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and a four-wheel drive version equipped with a 1.2-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid engine (96kW/230Nm) with a six-speed manual only.

Its crossover dimensions (4345mm long by 1813mm wide and 1650mm tall) with a solid ground clearance of 212mm place it solidly against other rugged SUV offerings with off-road abilities, like the Suzuki Jimny and Subaru Crosstrek.

The 4WD version adds a five-mode drive selector tailored to various surfaces, as well as a hill descent control system.

Standard items across the range include a seven-inch digital driver’s display, a 10.1-inch multimedia touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, as well as a range of active safety equipment. On the inside even the top-spec 4x4 scores cloth seat trim and a leatherbound steering wheel.

It will be offered with a choice of seven colours, and the accessories available from launch will be revealed imminently.

The brand warns the initial shipment of Dusters this year will be in limited volume because of strong demand in Europe, with additional capacity planned to be added by the brand from 2026 onwards.

“We’ve ordered as many cars as we could this year and we are now working closely with the factory to improve our allocation moving forward,” said Renault Australia General Manager, Glen Sealey.

Australia misses out on full hybrid version, which is available in the UK, a fellow right-hand drive market.