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The automotive world is buzzing this January 2026 as Renault takes a giant leap forward in its “International Game Plan 2027.” In a major global event held in Seoul on January 13, 2026, the French automaker officially pulled the covers off its newest flagship, the Renault Filante. This premium hybrid crossover is designed to redefine the E-segment with avant-garde styling and cutting-edge electrified performance. Simultaneously, excitement is building in the Indian market as the legendary Renault brand prepares for the massive unveiling of the next-generation Renault Duster on January 26, 2026.
The launch of the Filante marks a strategic shift for the Renault Group, focusing on premium markets outside Europe. Developed on the advanced CMA (Compact Modular Architecture) platform, the Filante is not just a car; it is a tech-heavy manifesto of what the brand aims to achieve by 2027. With production centered at the Busan plant in South Korea, the vehicle is slated for a market rollout in March 2026, followed by a release in South America and the Gulf States later in the year.
Renault Filante: The 250HP E-Tech Powerhouse
Under the hood, the Renault Filante debuts a significantly upgraded E-Tech full hybrid powertrain. Delivering a combined output of 250 hp and a staggering 565 Nm of torque, this system is engineered for both efficiency and high-speed dynamism. The powertrain pairs a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine with a sophisticated dual-electric motor setup, allowing the vehicle to operate in all-electric mode for up to 75% of city driving cycles. This makes it a direct competitor to high-end crossovers while offering the efficiency of a compact Renault Kiger.
Inside the cabin, the Filante offers a “lounge-level” experience. The interior features the OpenR Panorama infotainment system, consisting of three 12.3-inch high-definition screens powered by Android Automotive. Safety has also been elevated with three industry-leading technologies making their debut in the Renault lineup:
- Emergency Steering Assist: Helps drivers perform evasive maneuvers safely between 18 and 75 mph.
- Smart Rearview Mirror: A digital display that provides an unobstructed wide-angle view of the rear.
- Child Presence Detection: Uses advanced sensors to monitor the cabin and alert the owner if a passenger is left inside.
The 2026 Renault Duster: A Republic Day Special
While the Filante conquers the global stage, Indian enthusiasts are focused on the iconic nameplate’s return. The 2026 New Renault Duster is scheduled for its official India debut on January 26, 2026. This new-gen SUV is expected to transition from its rugged utilitarian roots to a more sophisticated, feature-rich powerhouse. Built on the CMF-B platform, the new Duster will challenge segment leaders like the Creta and Seltos with its 1.3-liter turbo-petrol engine producing 156 bhp.
For current owners of models like the Renault Kiger or the Triber, the new Duster represents a significant upgrade path. It will feature a 10.1-inch touchscreen, a 7-inch digital driver display, and a full Level 2 ADAS suite. Early reports suggest that Renault has already completed over one million kilometers of testing across diverse terrains to ensure the new Duster maintains its reputation for robustness.
What’s Next for Renault in 2026?
The start of 2026 has been incredibly active for the brand. In addition to these major reveals, Renault India has also announced a modest price revision of up to 2% across its current portfolio to manage rising input costs. However, to keep the momentum high, heavy discounts are currently available on unsold 2025 stock of the Renault Kiger and Kwid, making this an excellent month for buyers to visit showrooms.
With the Filante setting new standards in the premium hybrid space and the Duster poised to reclaim the SUV throne in India, 2026 is shaping up to be the “Year of Renault.”
