Renault Duster vs Maruti Victoris vs Skoda Kushaq Facelift

The midsize SUV segment is evolving rapidly, with buyers now choosing between strong hybrids, turbo-petrols, and diesel powertrains. The new Renault Duster, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, and Skoda Kushaq facelift each approach this space differently. Here’s a clear, category-wise comparison of all three SUVs.

Powertrain and engine options
Maruti Suzuki Victoris: The Victoris is built around efficiency. It uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with a strong-hybrid system and an e-CVT gearbox. The combined output stands at around 116 hp and 141 Nm. A 0.76 kWh battery supports electric driving at low speeds, and multiple drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Power—allow the driver to balance performance and economy.

Renault Duster (2026): Renault offers the widest range of engines. Entry-level variants use a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol producing 100 PS and 160 Nm with a 6-speed manual. A more powerful 1.3-litre turbo-petrol delivers 163 PS and 280 Nm, paired with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed DCT. The highlight is the 1.8-litre strong-hybrid system, combining a petrol engine, two electric motors, and a 1.4 kWh battery for a total output of 160 hp and 172 Nm.

Skoda Kushaq facelift: Skoda sticks to conventional but proven engines. The 1.0-litre turbo-petrol produces 115 hp and 175 Nm, offered with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed torque-converter automatic. The more powerful option is a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine delivering 150 hp and 250 Nm, paired exclusively with a 7-speed DSG.

Hybrid technology and efficiency focus:
Victoris prioritises fuel efficiency with a compact and lightweight strong-hybrid setup, making it well-suited for city use.
Duster adopts a performance-oriented hybrid system with a larger engine and battery, enabling stronger acceleration and up to 80% electric-only driving in urban conditions. Kushaq facelift does not offer a hybrid option, instead relying on refined ICE powertrains.



Transmission choices

Victoris: e-CVT (hybrid only)
Duster: 6-speed manual, 6-speed DCT, multi-mode automatic (hybrid)
Kushaq facelift: 6-speed manual, 8-speed torque converter automatic, 7-speed DSG (diesel)

Features and cabin technology
Renault Duster
Comes loaded with a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof, wireless charger, dual-zone climate control, powered tailgate, 48-colour ambient lighting, ventilated and powered front seats, and multiple drive modes. Safety highlights include six airbags, a 360-degree camera, disc brakes on all wheels, electric parking brake, and Level-2 ADAS.

Maruti Suzuki Victoris
Focuses on ease of use and efficiency, offering a modern infotainment system, digital driver display, multiple drive modes, and a hybrid-specific interface that displays energy flow and efficiency data. The feature list is practical rather than luxury-oriented.

Skoda Kushaq facelift
Gets a 10.1-inch touchscreen with connected-car tech, a 10.25-inch digital cluster, a six-speaker sound system with subwoofer, automatic climate control, panoramic sunroof, leatherette seats, electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats, and a segment-first rear seat massager.

Dimensions and road presence
Renault Duster is the largest of the three, measuring 4343 mm in length, 1813 mm in width, and 1659 mm in height, with a 2657 mm wheelbase. It offers 212 mm of ground clearance and a 594-litre boot.

Skoda Kushaq facelift measures 4225 mm in length, 1760 mm in width, and 1612 mm in height, with a 2651 mm wheelbase. Ground clearance is 188 mm, and boot space stands at 491 litres.

Maruti Suzuki Victoris sits between the two in size, offering a balanced footprint that prioritises urban usability over outright space.

Overall positioning
Maruti Suzuki Victoris: Best suited for buyers prioritising fuel efficiency, hybrid technology, and everyday city comfort.

Renault Duster: Appeals to those wanting size, versatility, multiple engine choices, and a more powerful hybrid option.

Skoda Kushaq facelift: Targets buyers who value driving dynamics, premium interiors, and strong petrol or diesel performance.