Renault Duster Hybrid Bookings Open Ahead Of Launch - 29km/l Mileage

French carmaker Renault has opened bookings for the Duster hybrid, ahead of its October 17 launch. The Renault Duster hybrid can be booked for a token amount of Rs 21,000 on the firm's India website or at dealerships across the country.

The hybrid becomes the third powertrain option on the Duster, joining the 1.0-litre and 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engines. Renault India has also confirmed an ARAI-rated fuel efficiency of 29kmpl for the hybrid version of its SUV.

Renault Duster - Hybrid E-Tech 160 Powertrain

The Renault Duster hybrid pairs a 1.8-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine with two electric motors, a 20hp generator and a 49hp unit that drives the wheels. A 1.4kWh battery supports the setup, and combined output stands at 160hp and 172Nm.

Renault calls the system E-Tech 160 and says it draws on its Formula 1 experience. Since it's a strong hybrid, the battery recharges while the SUV is being driven and needs no external charger.

Power reaches the wheels through a multi-mode automatic gearbox with fixed gear ratios. Depending on driving conditions, the system can switch between electric drive, engine drive and a combination of both. The turbo-petrol Duster versions use six-speed manual and six-speed DCT gearboxes.

Efficiency gains come from low-speed electric running, regenerative braking and an engine that stays off when it isn't needed. Renault claims 80 percent of city driving can be covered in electric mode, while real-world economy will vary with traffic, speed, temperature and driving style.

Renault Duster - Bookings, Price and Rivals

The new-generation Duster returned to the market earlier this year and starts at Rs 10.49 lakh (ex-showroom). Renault has already confirmed that the Renault Duster hybrid is sold out for the current calendar year.

The hybrid will compete directly with the Maruti Grand Vitara, Victoris and Toyota Hyryder. All three currently offer a hybrid powertrain option.