Renault has launched the Duster strong hybrid in India at an introductory price of ₹16.99 lakh, with the top-end version priced at ₹19.49 lakh. The SUV claims 29 kmpl mileage and a driving range of more than 1,400 km.
New Delhi, October 17 — Renault has launched the Duster strong hybrid in India, expanding the midsize SUV’s powertrain line-up beyond its existing turbo-petrol options.
The new Duster hybrid is priced from ₹16.99 lakh for the Evolution variant, while the mid-spec Techno costs ₹18.99 lakh and the top-end Emotion is priced at ₹19.49 lakh, all ex-showroom.
Bookings are currently open for ₹21,000, and customer deliveries are scheduled to begin in November. The introductory prices will apply to deliveries made until December 31, 2026.
The SUV uses Renault’s E-Tech 160 strong-hybrid system, combining a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors.
The petrol engine produces 110hp and 175Nm, while a separate 50hp traction motor produces 208Nm and drives the front wheels. Combined system output stands at 160hp.
The hybrid system uses a 1.4kWh, 247V NMC battery pack with direct refrigerant cooling and a multi-mode automatic gearbox.
Renault says the powertrain can automatically switch between six operating modes, including pure electric, petrol-only, series hybrid and series-parallel hybrid operation.
The company claims that up to 80% of city driving can be completed in electric mode.
The Duster hybrid can accelerate from 0-100 kmph in 9.61 seconds and has an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 29 kmpl.
With its 50-litre fuel tank, Renault claims a total driving range of more than 1,400 km.
In terms of features, the base Evolution trim gets a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity, 7-inch digital driver display and dual-zone climate control.
The Techno adds a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry, push-button start and connected-car technology, while the top-spec Emotion gets a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, ventilated and electrically adjustable front seats and a powered tailgate.
Safety equipment on the entry-level trim includes six airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, tyre-pressure monitoring, hill-start assist, rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera. However, unlike the top petrol variants, the hybrid does not get a 360-degree camera or ADAS.
The Renault Duster hybrid will compete with strong-hybrid SUVs such as the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Maruti Victoris and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
