New Renault Duster to Launch in India on March 17; Developed with IIT Kanpur's Wind Tunnel Technology

French automobile manufacturer Renault is set to bring back its popular SUV, the Renault Duster, to the Indian market in a completely new avatar. The model, which once enjoyed strong popularity in India before being discontinued a few years ago, will now return with upgraded technology, improved design, and enhanced performance features.

A notable highlight of the new SUV is the role played by Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur in its development. According to the company, Renault’s design and engineering team collaborated with the institute and used its advanced National Wind Tunnel Facility to test the vehicle’s aerodynamics. These tests helped engineers study how the car interacts with air flow and enabled them to significantly reduce wind noise.

Cabin Designed for Better Comfort

Renault India stated that the new mid-size SUV features an articulation index (AI) of 73 percent, which is considered among the best in its segment.

The articulation index measures how clearly passengers inside the vehicle can hear each other while driving.

A higher score indicates better clarity in conversation inside the cabin, meaning noise and vibration levels—commonly known as NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness)—have been effectively minimized.

Advanced Aerodynamics and Reduced Noise

Speaking about the collaboration, Vikraman V, Chief of Engineering at Renault India, said the partnership with IIT Kanpur helped improve the aerodynamics of the new Duster.

By conducting multiple wind-tunnel tests, engineers were able to reduce external noise from wind, engine, and road conditions, ensuring a quieter cabin experience for passengers.

Indian Model to Differ from Global Version

The company also used computer-aided engineering (CAE) tools to further refine the SUV’s aerodynamic performance. These improvements have helped reduce the vehicle’s drag coefficient by around 13 percent, meaning it faces less air resistance while driving.

Unlike the global model, the India-specific Duster will have some design differences. Built on Renault’s Global Modular Platform, the Indian version will be approximately 50 mm taller than the international model. This modification offers higher ground clearance and a more spacious cabin. Additionally, the SUV will feature a panoramic sunroof, enhancing the overall premium feel of the vehicle.