Renault India has introduced its Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 powertrain in the Indian market with the new Renault Duster, marking a step in the company’s electrification strategy for the country. The new Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 combines a 1.8-litre petrol engine, two electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery to deliver a maximum system output of 160 PS and peak motor torque of 208 Nm. The SUV has an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 29 km/l and can operate in pure electric mode for up to 80% of city driving, according to the company.
The hybrid system is designed to combine the benefits of electric driving with the convenience of a petrol-powered vehicle. The battery charges automatically while driving and during deceleration, eliminating the need for external charging infrastructure. The powertrain features a multi-mode automatic transmission inspired by Renault’s Formula 1 engineering experience. It combines two electric gears and four petrol-engine gears, offering 15 possible drive combinations to manage power delivery and energy use across different driving conditions.
Additional features include B Mode, which increases regenerative braking when the driver lifts off the accelerator, and E-Save mode, which helps preserve battery energy for later use. The system also incorporates energy management technology and battery thermal management to support performance and efficiency.
Renault said the new powertrain offers fuel savings of up to 29% compared with diesel vehicles. With a starting price of ₹16.99 lakh, the Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 is positioned for customers seeking an alternative to diesel SUVs, particularly in the ₹17 lakh to ₹20 lakh price segment.
Stéphane Deblaise, Chief Executive Officer, Renault Group India, said the company was bringing its global technologies to India under its futuREady India roadmap. He added that Renault’s engineering and design centres in Chennai would help adapt vehicles, powertrains and features to Indian requirements.
Francisco Hidalgo, Vice President – Sales and Marketing, Renault Group India, said the new hybrid SUV was intended for customers looking for lower fuel consumption and a quieter, smoother driving experience without changing their driving habits. The Duster retains its SUV design and practical features while adding hybrid technology. Exterior highlights include an illuminated DUSTER logo integrated into the grille. The vehicle also features frequency-dependent damping for ride comfort and a battery cooling system.
Inside, the Emotion variant receives dune-brown leatherette upholstery, ventilated front seats and six-way power adjustment for the front seat. The Techno variant features desert-beige semi-leatherette upholstery, while a revised headrest design is intended to improve the sense of space in the cabin.
Renault has also introduced its Forever Protect 360 ownership programme, starting at ₹89,900. It includes three years of comprehensive zero-depreciation motor insurance, a three-year or 30,000-km annual maintenance contract and an assured resale value of 60% after three years, subject to programme terms. Financing options are available through Renault Finance partners. Renault said the new hybrid model forms part of its wider effort to bring electrified mobility technology to Indian customers while retaining the everyday practicality of an SUV.
Renault India Pvt Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of Renault SAS, France. Renault India vehicles are manufactured at the company’s Oragadam facility in Chennai, which has an annual production capacity of 480,000 units. Renault India has a network of close to 638 sales and service touchpoints across the country, including more than 200 Workshop on Wheels locations.
