Renault Launches Duster Hybrid Starting at Rs 16.99 Lakh

UPDATE - follow-up to Renault Duster Hybrid review: Sets a new benchmark for hybrids: Renault has launched the new Duster Hybrid in India, priced from Rs 16.99 lakh for the entry-level trim and rising to Rs 19.49 lakh for the top-end variant.

Powertrain and Performance

The vehicle uses a 1.8-litre, four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine paired with a 1.4kWh battery, producing a combined output of 160 horsepower. It features a clutchless, dog-clutch transmission with four ratios for the engine and two for the electric motor. The system delivers a certified fuel efficiency of 29 kilometres per litre and accelerates from zero to 100 kilometres per hour in under 10 seconds.

Features and Trade-offs

To manage costs, Renault omitted features like ADAS, the 360-degree camera, and the auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The hybrid model also sees boot space reduced from 518 litres to 372 litres due to the under-floor battery placement. For customer reassurance, the company offers a standard seven-year warranty on the car and an eight-year warranty on the battery pack.

Context

This launch attempts to revive the Duster nameplate in India following sluggish sales of earlier petrol variants due to the absence of a diesel option. Strong hybrids combine a traditional fuel engine with an electric motor and battery to boost fuel economy, particularly in stop-and-go city traffic.