Renault to introduce the strong-hybrid Duster in India on October 17, 2026. The SUV will have three engine options, with the new powertrain sold as part of Renault’s E-Tech hybrid technology. The system employs technology and know-how developed by the company’s Formula 1 program, with a focus on combining lower fuel consumption with the performance expected of a midsize
Powertrain And Performance
The Duster E-Tech hybrid features a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder naturally-aspirated gasoline engine combined with two electric motors. This includes the 49hp traction electric motor to drive the wheels and 20hp integrated start-generator motor. Overall, the hybrid system is capable of producing 162bhp and 172Nm of torque, with energy stored using the 1.4kWh lithium-ion battery. The hybrid powertrain will be offered exclusively in association with the automatic transmission.
The E-Tech hybrid system utilizes a series-parallel hybrid design and functions in various ways according to the driving situation. It includes hybrid operation where both petrol engine and electric motor work together, electric mode with the use of the electric motor to drive the wheels while the petrol engine recharges the battery, and petrol engine alone mode. Also, it features the recovery of energy when the car brakes and recharges the battery for improved efficiency especially in urban driving.
How It Differs From Rivals
The hybrid technology employed in the Renault vehicle differs from that which uses Toyota technology in Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, and Maruti Victoris. As opposed to employing an e-CVT with the power-split technology, Duster E-Tech features a multi-mode clutchless automatic transmission featuring fixed gears.
The transmission is capable of alternating between driving using electric power, petrol engine or combination of both depending on the prevailing conditions while driving. The other aspect that differs is the battery size. Duster comes with a 1.4kWh battery that is much bigger compared to the 0.60kWh battery featured in Toyota’s hybrid technology.
Expected Price And Availability
The Duster Hybrid is anticipated to command a higher price point compared to other variants. The SUV may be offered at around INR 19-23 lakhs, depending on the variant and location.
There is already a good amount of demand for the hybrid model from Renault, and the carmaker has revealed that all of its allotment for 2026 has been completely booked even before announcing its price.