Renault Duster Launches 29 km/l Hybrid SUV

Renault rolled out the Duster E‑Tech 160 strong‑hybrid SUV in India on 17 October 2026. The model is offered in three trims – Evolution, Techno and Emotion – with ex‑showroom prices ranging from Rs 16.99 lakh for the Evolution to Rs 19.49 lakh for the Emotion. A 1.8‑litre petrol engine is paired with two electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery to form the hybrid system.

Hybrid Powertrain and Efficiency

The hybrid uses a 1.8‑litre Atkinson‑cycle petrol engine with 350‑bar direct injection, complemented by two electric motors that provide a combined 160 PS and 208 Nm. The 1.4‑kWh battery is cooled by refrigerant and is covered by an eight‑year warranty or 160 k km guarantee, while the vehicle itself carries a seven‑year mechanical warranty.

Renault claims the Duster E‑Tech 160 can achieve a certified ARAI mileage of 29 km/l, higher than rivals such as the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. In terms of fuel savings, Renault estimates a 29 % reduction compared to its diesel‑powered version.

Ex‑showroom prices start at Rs 16.99 lakh for the Evolution trim, rising to Rs 18.99 lakh for the Techno and Rs 19.49 lakh for the Emotion. The vehicle is sold with a seven‑year warranty and an eight‑year battery guarantee. Buyers can opt into the Renault Protect 360 plan, which costs Rs 89,900 and includes three years of zero‑depreciation motor insurance, a three‑year/30,000 km all‑maintenance contract and a 60 % resale value guarantee after three years.

Adding a strong‑hybrid powertrain broadens the SUV’s appeal beyond its existing turbo‑petrol variants, giving buyers a balance of performance and lower running costs without the need for charging infrastructure. Renault hopes the hybrid will help the Duster compete more effectively in the mid‑size SUV segment.