Overview
- Renault has opened orders for the Duster strong‑hybrid with introductory ex‑showroom prices of ₹16.99 lakh to ₹19.49 lakh and deliveries scheduled to begin in November.
- The hybrid pairs a naturally aspirated 1.8‑litre petrol engine with two electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery to make a combined 160 hp and 172 Nm and uses a multi‑mode hybrid transmission.
- Renault cites an ARAI‑claimed 29 kpl, up to 80% electric‑only city driving and a claimed range beyond 1,400 km on a full tank, though real‑world mileage may vary from the laboratory figure.
- The package forces trade‑offs: the battery cuts boot space from 518 litres to 372 litres, peak torque is lower than the 1.3‑litre turbo petrol, and some top‑tier driver aids such as a 360° camera and Level‑2 ADAS are not offered on the hybrid.
- Key powertrain parts are being imported from Spain today and Renault says it is working to localise components and raise production, which could affect future pricing and allocation for buyers.