Renault Duster Strong Hybrid debuts in India at Rs 16.99 Lakh

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Renault India has launched the Duster Hybrid E-Tech 160 at a starting price of Rs. 16.99 lakh, ex-showroom. The new midsize SUV is powered by a 1.8-litre petrol-hybrid powertrain, producing 108 BHP and 172 Nm.

The  hybrid system combines a 1.8-litre petrol engine with two electric motors: a generator and a traction motor. The car comes with a 1.4kWh 247V NMC direct refrigerant-cooled self-charging battery. The engine is claimed to run on the Atkinson cycle with a claimed thermal efficiency of 41%. Renault claims it can automatically manage the petrol engine and electric motors based on driving conditions with six auto-selected operating modes, using electric power in suitable conditions, recovering energy during deceleration and braking, and switching between electric and combustion propulsion as needed.

Renault claims an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 29kmpl, while up to 80 per cent of city driving can be done in electric mode under suitable conditions. The system produces a combined 160bhp and is paired with a multi-mode automatic transmission. The battery recharges through regenerative braking and the petrol engine, eliminating the need for external charging.

The engine is capable of a 0-100 km/h sprint in a claimed 9.61 seconds.

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The Duster Strong Hybrid is the much-anticipated third powertrain option for the 2026 Renault Duster, following the launch of two turbo-petrol variants earlier this year: the 1.0L Turbo TCe 100 producing 99 BHP and 166 Nm, and the 1.3L Turbo TCe 160 producing 161 BHP and 280 Nm.

The new powertrain joins the Duster’s existing 1.0-litre and 1.3-litre turbo-petrol options, giving buyers an alternative, as this generation of the Duster has no diesel engine option.

The Duster Hybrid competes with the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Victoris and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, all of which offer strong-hybrid powertrains. Renault’s claimed 29kmpl efficiency gives it a numerical advantage over these rivals, although actual fuel economy will depend on driving conditions.

Prices start from Rs. 16.99 lakh for the Evolution variant, topping out at Rs. 19.49 lakh for the top Emotion variant.

Also Read: Renault Triber Turbo mileage revealed

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