Renault has launched the new Duster Hybrid in India at a starting price of Rs 16.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The new version gets a 1.8-litre petrol engine with two electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery pack. Renault claims a fuel efficiency of 29 kmpl, making it the most fuel-efficient version of the new Duster. The SUV also gets a hybrid-specific transmission and suspension changes. Bookings are already open, and deliveries will begin on November 6, just ahead of Diwali.

The Renault Duster Hybrid is available in three variants: Evolution, Techno and Emotion. Here is the price list.

These prices apply to bookings made until December 31, 2026. Renault is also offering a dual-tone paint option for an additional Rs 20,000. Customers can book the SUV for Rs 21,000 through the company’s official website or authorised dealerships.

The main highlight of the new Duster Hybrid is its 1.8-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. It works with two electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery pack. The combined system produces 160 PS, while the electric motor delivers 208 Nm of torque. It comes with an eight-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) and sends power to the front wheels.

Here are the key specifications of the Renault Duster Hybrid.

Renault claims that the Duster Hybrid can run in electric mode for up to 80% of the time in city driving conditions. This should help reduce fuel consumption in traffic, where cars often move at low speeds and stop frequently. The company also claims a driving range of more than 1,400 km on a full tank. Actual mileage and range will depend on driving conditions, traffic and driving style.

The hybrid powertrain produces slightly less power and torque than the Duster’s 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine. The latter produces 163 PS and 280 Nm of torque. However, the electric motors in the hybrid version provide additional torque to help with acceleration. Renault claims that the Duster Hybrid can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 9.6 seconds.

Renault has also added frequency-dependent dampers (FDD) to the hybrid version. These dampers adjust their response according to road conditions and are designed to improve ride comfort. However, the hybrid system affects luggage space. The Duster Hybrid offers 372 litres of boot space, compared to 518 litres in the petrol-only version. The difference comes from the additional hybrid hardware and battery packaging.

The new Duster Hybrid retains the same overall design as the regular model. It gets LED headlamps, connected LED tail lamps and 18-inch alloy wheels. Renault has added illuminated DUSTER lettering on the front grille, along with E-Tech badges on the front doors and tailgate. These changes help distinguish the hybrid version from the other variants.

The SUV gets the same dashboard layout as the standard Duster. However, Renault is offering new Dune Brown leatherette upholstery. The main features include a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control and a powered tailgate. It also gets a wireless phone charger, six-way powered and ventilated front seats, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.

Safety features include six airbags, Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), electronic stability control and hill hold assist. The SUV also gets all-wheel disc brakes, a tyre pressure monitoring system, a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. The Renault Duster has a five-star Bharat NCAP safety rating.

Besides the new hybrid powertrain, Renault continues to offer the Duster with two turbo-petrol engine options. Their specifications are listed below.

The 1-litre engine is available in the entry-level variants, while the 1.3-litre engine offers more power and is available with both manual and automatic transmissions. Buyers can choose between these engines and the new strong-hybrid option based on their budget, driving needs and preference for fuel efficiency.

The Renault Duster Hybrid will compete with the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Maruti Suzuki Victoris. The upcoming Kia Seltos Hybrid could also become a rival. With a claimed mileage of 29 kmpl, the new Duster Hybrid gives buyers another option in the SUV segment, especially those who spend a lot of time driving in city traffic and want lower fuel consumption.