Overview
- The Duster hybrid, which is due to launch on Saturday, October 17, is available for pre‑booking with a Rs 21,000 token while Renault holds back official variant and price details.
- Renault’s E‑Tech 160 system pairs a 1.8‑litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with two electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery to produce a combined 160 hp and 172 Nm.
- The model’s ARAI‑certified fuel efficiency is 29 kmpl, a laboratory test figure that is higher than rival strong hybrids on paper but may differ from real‑world consumption.
- Renault uses a multi‑mode automatic with fixed gear ratios rather than an e‑CVT, which can cause noticeable rev and shift changes compared with Toyota‑based rivals and may affect driving feel.
- Analysts and buyers say the launch’s impact will hinge on final ex‑showroom pricing (estimates around Rs 20–22 lakh), dealer booking terms and verified on‑road fuel performance against Maruti and Toyota strong hybrids.