After a prolonged quiet period in the Indian market, the Renault-Nissan Alliance is shifting gears into high velocity. The automotive partners have laid out an aggressive roadmap, committing to five new model launches between January 2026 and early 2027. This strategic surge is aimed at revitalizing their presence with a focus on high-demand segments, moving beyond mere refreshes to genuinely new offerings.
The charge begins this month with one of the most anticipated comebacks: the next-generation Renault Duster. Slated for a global debut on January 26, its Indian arrival is expected soon after. Moving to a modern platform, this third-generation model is a complete reinvention. It promises a more sophisticated design, a stronger build, and a host of contemporary tech features absent from its beloved predecessor. While drawing from its international version, the India-spec Duster will sport distinctive touches like unique LED daytime running lights and connected tail lamps. A welcome addition for Indian climates could be ventilated front seats. Power will come from capable 1.0L and 1.3L turbo-petrol engines, with a hybrid variant planned to join the lineup next year.
Nissan enters the fray simultaneously with a new model for a new segment: the Nissan Gravite. This sub-4 metre MPV, set for launch this month, will share its core architecture with the popular Renault Triber but will wear Nissan’s distinct identity. Teasers reveal a bolder front fascia with a prominent grille, angular bumper accents, and assertive badging, carving out its own visual space. The interior and powertrain, however, are expected to closely mirror the Triber’s practical and efficient formula.
Following closely, Nissan will unveil the Tekton in February. This model is a sibling to the new Duster but aims for a different character. Nissan is giving it a sharply differentiated exterior, reportedly drawing inspiration from the design language of its global flagship, the Patrol SUV. This should grant the Tekton a more rugged and commanding road presence. Under the skin, it will share mechanics with the Duster, with a launch targeted for March and a hybrid option potentially arriving in 2027.
The alliance’s most significant family-focused play will come later in 2026. Both brands are confirmed to be introducing new three-row, C-segment SUVs. Nissan’s version will follow the launch of its Renault counterpart, which is expected in the last quarter of the year. This Renault seven-seater will be more than just an elongated Duster; it’s poised to be the premium flagship of the lineup. Expect features possibly missing on the standard Duster, such as a panoramic sunroof, a powered tailgate, a larger digital instrument cluster, and distinctive two-tone paint options. These models will cater directly to the growing demand for spacious, feature-rich family SUVs, initially with a potent 1.3L turbo-petrol engine and later hybrid variants.
This coordinated product offensive shows a clear, two-pronged strategy: leveraging shared platforms for efficiency while ensuring distinct brand identities through design. For Indian car buyers, it translates to a sudden influx of fresh, competitive options in hotly contested segments, marking a decisive end to the waiting game from Renault and Nissan.
