March 2026 promises to be an exciting month for the Indian automotive sector, with the much-anticipated return of the Renault Duster. After its discontinuation in the Indian market in 2022, the next-generation Duster has already reached dealerships, and customer deliveries are anticipated to start in April. The new model will be available with two initial turbo-petrol engines. The base variant is a 1.0-litre turbocharged engine generating 100bhp, similar to that found in the Renault Kiger. A more robust 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, capable of producing 163bhp, will be featured as well. Both powertrains will come with a 6-speed manual transmission, with the 1.3-litre variant also offering a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic option. Additionally, a hybrid version is expected to arrive later in the year, likely around the Diwali festival, which will combine a 1.8-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and a starter generator, offering a total output of approximately 160bhp. Once released, the Duster will compete in the midsize SUV segment against rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Tata Sierra, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Kia Seltos.

Audi SQ8 Launch Scheduled for March 17

On the same day, the Audi SQ8 is set to be unveiled in India. This model will occupy a space between the standard Audi Q8 and the higher-performance Audi RS Q8. The SQ8 is driven by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, providing an output of 507bhp and peak torque of 770Nm. This powertrain is similar to the one found in the RS Q8 but tuned for lower performance, unlike the RS Q8, which boasts 640bhp and 850Nm of torque. The base Q8 features a 3.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that produces 340bhp and 500Nm. The SQ8 is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission along with Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive technology. According to the manufacturer, this vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in just 4.1 seconds, showcasing its performance capabilities.

Toyota Ebella Pricing Expected Soon

In addition to the above launches, Toyota is anticipated to announce the pricing for the Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella, its take on the Maruti e Vitara. This model signifies Toyota’s entry into the mass-market electric vehicle sector within India. The Ebella will be offered with two battery configurations. The base variant includes a 49kWh battery paired with an electric motor that generates 144bhp and 189Nm of torque, while the 61kWh battery version will provide 174bhp with similar torque output. The larger battery pack is estimated to offer a driving range of up to 543km, while the smaller variant is rated for 440km on a single charge, according to ARAI tests.

Skoda Kushaq Facelift on the Horizon

Skoda is set to reveal an updated version of the Kushaq in the Indian market, featuring cosmetic upgrades, a refined interior, and enhanced comfort features. Among the anticipated highlights are a panoramic sunroof and a massaging function for the rear seats. On the technical side, the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, previously producing 115bhp, will now be linked with a new 8-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, replacing the earlier 6-speed automatic option. The 6-speed manual gearbox will still remain available. Additionally, the more potent 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 150bhp will continue to be offered with the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Other enhancements include the introduction of rear disc brakes, contributing to improved safety and handling.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share