Renault Bridger To Get New 1.2-litre MPFi Engine - Details Revealed

French carmaker Renault is developing a new 1.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine for the upcoming Bridger compact SUV, due on sale by end of 2027, claims a new report by Autocar India.

The new powerplant is being derived from the Duster's 1.3-litre TGDi engine, with a reduced stroke dropping displacement below 1,200cc. The new engine will help the upcoming Bridger qualify for the sub-4m tax classification which will allow Renault to be aggressive with its pricing in the segment.

Renault Bridger - Expected Powertrain Options

Unlike the Duster's direct-injection setup, the Bridger will get an MPFi system, which will be simpler and cheaper to produce, while also being CNG-compatible by design. In its turbo-petrol trim, output is expected to land at around 120hp, broadly matching segment rivals. A naturally-aspirated variant will also be on offer, creating a lower entry point into the lineup.

The Bridger's RGMP platform has been engineered from the outset to support CNG powertrains. Factory-fitted CNG is a significant play with the fuel type now accounting for 22 percent of all car sales in FY2026, making it second only to petrol nationally.

The upcoming Renault Bridger's full powertrain roster will span naturally aspirated petrol, turbo-petrol, CNG, hybrid and electric, though there will be no diesel on offer. The Tata Nexon, the bestselling vehicle in the segment, covers petrol, diesel, CNG and electric.

Renault is positioning the hybrid as a diesel substitute, with pricing set to be the deciding factor. CNG volumes could prove critical to the Bridger's commercial success. Renault is betting on both the Bridger and the recently launched Duster to reverse its India sales trajectory.

Renault Bridger - Design & Expected Features

The Bridger takes the Duster's flat, boxy template and amplifies it into a more overtly rugged silhouette. Up front, a gloss black grille carries illuminated 'RENAULT' lettering, flanked by large headlamps and a boxy bumper with a silver skid plate. A black bonnet sticker adds visual distinction.

The side profile leans hard into the SUV brief - upright stance, thick squared-off wheel arch cladding, muscular haunches and large silver alloy wheels. The rear door handle sits tucked behind the window, identical to the Duster's layout.

At the rear, a tailgate-mounted spare wheel and flat tailgate give the Bridger an old-school, utilitarian character. Silver bumper appliqué and a distinctive taillamp signature round off the design.
Renault hasn't revealed the full interior, but two confirmed figures stand out: 400mm of rear knee room and a 400-litre boot. Both would rank among the most competitive numbers in the sub-4m segment.

Equipment is likely to include a 10.1-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, ambient lighting, air purifier and a power-adjustable driver's seat. Safety kit is expected to cover Level 2 ADAS, six airbags, ESC, a 360-degree camera and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold.