KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Renault Duster - E-Tech 160 - explained
- 1.8L Na petrol engine paired with 1.4 kWh battery pack
- This setup could achieve a fuel efficiency of 35 kmpl
The Renault Duster, a nameplate that ruled the 2010s, has returned to India in a new avatar and is aiming to dominate the segment once again. Renault has done its full preparation this time, offering best-in-class features along with three engine options. These include a strong hybrid powertrain paired with a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated engine, the largest we have seen in the mid-size SUV segment.
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Also Read: Renault Brings Back the Duster: New Look, More Features, Same SUV DNA
Renault Duster
In this article, we'll talk about the strong hybrid powertrain that Renault calls E-Tech 160. It is a strong hybrid setup featuring a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a 1.4 kWh battery, which is capable of driving the SUV in pure electric mode for up to 80% of city usage, says the brand.
At the moment, Renault has not disclosed the official power and torque figures. However, based on the engine specifications, it is fair to assume that the output could be above 160 PS with torque exceeding 200 Nm. This should make the SUV not only highly fuel-efficient but also powerful enough to satisfy occasional adrenaline rushes.
Internationally, the Duster is available with a Hybrid 155 setup, producing 155 hp and 205 Nm of torque. However, the India-spec model differs in terms of the battery pack, while the core hybrid architecture remains the same.
Considering this, it is fair to assume that the Duster could easily deliver 32-35 kmpl of fuel efficiency in hybrid mode. Whenever additional power is required, the 1.8-litre petrol engine will seamlessly step in. With this setup, rivals such as the Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder are set to face stiff competition from the legend returned. Lastly, this will be available in India around Diwali 2026.
Verdict
Renault appears confident and well-prepared with the new Duster, offering three engine options to suit different buyer needs. The standout is the 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine, producing a segment-best 163 PS and 280 Nm, paired with a 7-speed wet-clutch DCT. This setup is better suited for Indian conditions, with improved heat management and fewer reliability concerns compared to dry-clutch gearboxes.
With the addition of a strong hybrid for efficiency and turbo-petrol options for performance, the Duster's comeback looks well thought out and competitive, making it a serious contender in the mid-size SUV segment.
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