Renault Duster Hybrid India Launch Date Revealed - Grand Vitara and Hyryder Hybrid Rival

French carmaker Renault will launch the Duster hybrid in India on October 17, adding a third powertrain option to the SUV alongside its 1.0-litre and 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engines. It will be the fourth midsize SUV in India to get a strong-hybrid option.

Called E-Tech, the Renault Duster's hybrid system draws on the firm's Formula 1 experience, the brand says. The Duster hybrid will join the Maruti Grand Vitara, Victoris and Toyota Hyryder in offering a strong-hybrid powertrain in the segment.

Renault Duster Hybrid Powertrain Details

The Renault Duster hybrid combines a naturally aspirated 1,789cc four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors. A 20hp unit works as a generator, while a 49hp motor drives the wheels. Combined output stands at 160hp and 172Nm, supported by a 1.4kWh battery pack.

Renault's E-Tech setup differs from the Toyota-sourced hybrid system used on the Hyryder, Grand Vitara and Victoris. The Duster sends power to the wheels through a multi-mode automatic gearbox with fixed gear ratios, rather than the e-CVT and power-split device Toyota uses for a step-free driving feel. Engine rpm is expected to rise and fall more like a conventional automatic, with distinct gear shifts as the system switches between electric, engine and combined drive.

The Duster's 1.4kWh battery is also nearly double the size of the 0.76kWh unit on Toyota's hybrid system. Efficiency gains on strong hybrids typically come from low-speed electric running, regenerative braking and the ability to shut off the petrol engine when it isn't needed.

Renault claims the Duster hybrid will be able to run in EV mode for 80 percent of city driving. Real-world fuel efficiency will still depend on traffic, speed, ambient temperature and driving style.

The strong-hybrid option is expected to make up for the Duster's lack of a diesel engine. It will compete directly with the strong-hybrid versions of the Grand Vitara, Victoris and Hyryder in the midsize SUV segment.