Renault Plans Cheaper Duster Engine to Boost Sales

Renault is working on a new 1.3-litre MPFI turbo petrol engine for the Duster SUV in India to lower prices by up to 1.5 lakh rupees. The brand aims to fix a drop in sales despite strong initial impact and a capable hybrid model.

Engine Details

The current Duster lineup features a 1.0-litre turbo petrol, a 1.3-litre TGDI turbo petrol, and a 1.8-litre hybrid powertrain. The new MPFI version will sell alongside the more powerful 1.3-litre TGDI engine, which currently makes 163 bhp and 280 Nm of torque. The upcoming MPFI option is expected to generate around 140 bhp and 250 Nm while cutting production costs by swapping complex TGDI hardware and the expensive GPF exhaust system for a simpler fuel-injection setup.

Market Impact

Indian car buyers are very price sensitive and design sensitive, a lesson Renault learned from past models like the Captur. The simpler engine choice aims to make the Duster more affordable for mainstream buyers. Additionally, the port-injection system in the MPFI engine will offer better compatibility for a factory-fitted CNG option than direct injection.

Context

Automakers in India often introduce cost-reduced engine variants to lower entry prices and attract budget-conscious buyers in a highly competitive market. Adjusting mechanical complexity helps brands offer lower retail prices without completely redesigning the vehicle body.