Next-Year Launch: Renault–Nissan Preparing Fresh SUVs To Compete With Hyundai Creta
The Indian midsize SUV segment is one of the most competitive and fastest-growing markets today. For years, the Hyundai Creta has dominated this space with strong sales, a wide feature list, and solid brand trust. But the landscape is set to change next year, as Renault and Nissan prepare to launch two all-new midsize SUVs aimed directly at Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, and Honda Elevate.
Both companies are alliance partners, so these upcoming SUVs will share the same platform, engines, and technologies. However, each brand will give its SUV a distinctive design, feature set, and market positioning.
This blog breaks down everything we know so far — expected features, engines, design, launch timeline, and how Renault-Nissan plan to challenge the Hyundai Creta.
Why the Midsize SUV Segment Matters So Much
The success of the Hyundai Creta has proven one thing clearly: Indian buyers want feature-rich, premium-looking SUVs at a reasonable price. Whether it’s city buyers or small-town customers, the demand for stylish, comfortable, and practical SUVs is constantly rising.
Renault and Nissan have been inactive in this segment for a few years, but now they’re planning a powerful comeback with fresh and modern products.
Renault’s Upcoming Midsize SUV: The New-Generation Duster
Renault is all set to bring back one of India’s most-loved SUVs — the New-Gen Duster. The model has already been spotted in global markets, and the India-spec version will be based on the same updated platform.
1. Expected Features in the New Duster
Full LED headlamps and tail-lamps
Panoramic sunroof
Large 10–12-inch infotainment touchscreen
Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
Fully digital instrument cluster
ADAS Level 1 or Level 2 features
360-degree camera
Premium soft-touch materials inside
The Duster has always been known for its ruggedness, and this new version will continue that legacy with improved build quality and stronger road presence.
2. Engine Options
Renault is likely to offer:
1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine (around 150 PS)
A strong-hybrid powertrain (expected to deliver best-in-class mileage)
AWD (All-Wheel Drive) option — something the Creta doesn’t offer
If launched with AWD, the Duster will immediately attract adventure and performance-oriented buyers.
Nissan’s New SUV: Stylish and Technology-Focused
Nissan will also launch its own midsize SUV based on the same platform. It is expected to replace the discontinued Kicks in India, but with a more premium and futuristic approach.
1. Expected Features in the Nissan SUV
Sleek LED DRLs and aggressive front grille
Dual-tone premium interiors
Best-in-segment connected car tech
Larger, high-resolution infotainment screen
Full ADAS suite
Ventilated seats
Sunroof
Premium audio system
Nissan generally focuses on tech and modern design, so its SUV will likely feel more futuristic compared to the Renault counterpart.
Renault–Nissan SUVs vs Hyundai Creta: Who Has the Edge?
Buyers naturally want to know — can these upcoming SUVs really challenge the Creta? Let’s compare:
1. Design
Creta has a bold design, but:
New Duster → muscular, rugged, off-road personality
New Nissan SUV → modern, sleek, futuristic look
This gives buyers two different styles to choose from.
2. Features
Creta is loaded with features, but Renault and Nissan plan to go even further with:
Advanced ADAS
Better infotainment systems
Improved interior quality
3. Engines
Creta offers petrol, turbo-petrol and diesel options.
Renault–Nissan may take the lead with:
More powerful turbo-petrol
Fuel-efficient strong hybrid
AWD for enthusiasts
4. Pricing
Renault is known for competitive pricing. Expected:
Base variants ⇒ More affordable than Creta
Mid & top variants ⇒ Priced very competitively
This could shift the market in favour of Renault-Nissan.
A Big Comeback for Renault and Nissan in India
In recent years, both brands have had limited offerings. But these new SUVs are part of a much bigger revival plan. Apart from midsize SUVs, the alliance is also working on compact SUVs, EVs, and MPVs for India.
The new Duster and Nissan’s premium SUV could be the breakthrough products they’ve been waiting for.
Launch Timeline
The expected schedule is:
Global unveil: Late 2025
India launch: First half of 2026
Production will take place at the Tamil Nadu plant for both brands.
Conclusion: Is Creta’s Dominance Under Threat?
There’s no doubt that the Hyundai Creta is currently the king of the midsize SUV segment. But in 2026, Renault and Nissan will bring two fresh, powerful, modern SUVs that could finally challenge Creta’s stronghold.
With:
Better design
More powerful engines
Hybrid technology
AWD capability
Competitive pricing
…the Renault-Nissan alliance is ready to shake up the segment.
For customers, this is great news — 2026 will bring more choices, more features, and better value in the midsize SUV category.
