The strong hybrid version of the Duster has been launched today in India for a starting price of Rs. 16.99 lakh. The Evolution, Techno and Emotion variants carry introductory prices of Rs. 16.99 lakh, Rs. 18.99 lakh and Rs. 19.49 lakh respectively (all, ex-showroom). The SUV comes with an ARAI certified fuel economy of 29 kmpl courtesy of a 157.8 hp petrol/electric powertrain and requires no external charging.
The E-Tech 160 system uses a 1.8-litre petrol engine, two electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery. The company says a total of 208 Nm of peak electric motor torque is produced. The Formula 1-inspired multi-mode automatic transmission incorporates two electric and four petrol gear ratios. Notably, the gearbox supports 15 drive combinations as it coordinates the engine and motors according to driving conditions.
The petrol and electric components propel the Duster independently or in combination based on available energy and required output. The battery recovers energy during braking and deceleration, and the petrol engine can replenish its charge during operation. The E-Save mode, meanwhile, preserves battery energy for a later part of the journey. Consequently, the SUV can travel solely on electric power under suitable conditions without requiring a charging station.
| Variant | Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|
| Evolution | Rs. 16.99 Lakh |
| Techno | Rs. 18.99 Lakh |
| Emotion | Rs. 19.49 Lakh |
The 29 kmpl certification accompanies Renault’s claim that electric propulsion can account for up to 80 per cent of city driving. The company also estimates fuel savings of up to 30 per cent against diesel vehicles.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | 1.8-Litre Petrol Strong Hybrid |
| Electric Motors | Two |
| Combined Maximum Power | 157.8 hp |
| Peak Electric-Motor Torque | 208 Nm |
| Battery Capacity | 1.4 kWh |
| Transmission | Multi-Mode Automatic |
| Electric / Petrol Gear Ratios | Two / Four |
| Drive Combinations | 15 |
| ARAI-Certified Mileage | 29 kmpl |
| Claimed Electric Share Of City Driving | Up To 80% |
| 0–100 kmph | 9.61 Seconds (AC Off) |
| 80–120 kmph | 10.6 Seconds (AC Off) |
The strong hybrid accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in a claimed 9.61 seconds and covers 80 to 120 kmph in 10.6 seconds. The company specifies that both figures were recorded with the air conditioning switched off. The SUV sits on the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP) which Renault says has been validated for extreme conditions.
Furthermore, the FDD suspension system receives dedicated tuning for a smoother ride over uneven roads and improved body control. The battery also has dedicated thermal management as a chiller plate draws cooling from the air conditioning circuit. The company describes the arrangement as a segment-first feature. The advanced electric compressor operates independently of engine speed so cabin cooling can be maintained during stop-start traffic even when the petrol engine is inactive.
In addition, the battery warranty extends to eight years or 1.6 lakh km. The Duster E-Tech 160 opened for bookings just over a week ago. The reservation amount is Rs. 21,000 through Renault’s website or authorised dealerships. The first customer deliveries are set to begin on November 6 as the introductory pricing applies only to vehicles delivered by December 31, 2026. The company has also announced delivery priority for R-Pass owners.
