Renault Launches Duster Hybrid in India With Pricing Starting at Rs 16.99 Lakh

Renault has launched the new Duster Hybrid in India with prices ranging from Rs 16.99 lakh to Rs 19.49 lakh (ex-showroom), arriving seven months after the standard turbo-petrol versions went on sale. Offered across three trims named Evolution, Techno and Emotion, the SUV takes on strong-hybrid rivals from Maruti Suzuki and Toyota.

Powertrain and Performance

The vehicle features a 1.8-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with two electric motors, including a 20hp generator and a 49hp drive motor, backed by a 1.4kWh battery pack. This setup delivers a combined output of 160hp and 172Nm of torque, while the electric motor provides up to 208Nm instantly. The SUV starts silently in electric mode, shifts between petrol and electric power between 40 and 60kph, and uses a dog-clutch transmission alongside a two-speed electric gear setup. Renault claims a peak fuel efficiency of 29kpl for the model, with real-world city figures expected around 18 to 19kpl.

Ride and Trade-offs

Weighing about 100kg more than the turbo-petrol version, the hybrid gets stiffened springs and new frequency-dependent dampers to handle bumps while maintaining body control. Inside, it features brown upholstery to provide a more airy feel, but trades away certain features found in petrol variants, such as a 360-degree camera, an advanced driver assistance systems suite, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The under-floor battery also reduces boot space from 518 litres to 372 litres, and the spare wheel is replaced by a puncture repair kit, though a smaller-sized spare is sold as an accessory.

Context

Strong-hybrid vehicles combine a traditional internal combustion engine with electric motors and a battery pack to improve fuel efficiency without requiring external charging. The midsize SUV segment in India has seen growing competition as manufacturers introduce electrified powertrains to meet rising demand for lower emissions and reduced running costs.