India, March 26 -- A decade ago, the first Duster pretty much invented the midsize SUV space in India, winning fans with its tough stance, brilliant ride and torquey diesel engine. As rivals mushroomed, Renault quietly got out of the race, letting the legend grow in owners' WhatsApp groups and used-car forums. Now it's back. You'll recognise the square-shouldered stance, but the details are all-new. This time there's no diesel, no all-wheel drive and no bargain-basement image.

Instead, you get high-tech turbo-petrol engines, a new platform, and a cabin that looks 2026-ready. The front wears bold LED headlights with eyebrow-style daytime lights that double up as indicators, a chunky skid plate and, interestingly, a big Duster badge instea...