Renault’s latest Duster Hybrid is slated to go on sale in India on 17 October 2026, with a starting ex‑showroom price of ₹20 lakh and a 1.8‑litre engine that pushes out 160 hp.
The new model sits alongside the 1.0‑litre and 1.3‑litre turbo‑petrol Dusters that debuted earlier this year. For buyers looking for a more sustainable option, the hybrid nudges the Duster into the growing segment of “strong‑hybrid” SUVs, directly competing with the Mahindra XUV300 Hybrid and the Hyundai Venue Electric‑Assist.
Under the hood, the HR18 strong‑hybrid system couples a naturally aspirated 1.8‑litre four‑cylinder with two electric motors—one as a starter‑generator, the other as a drive motor—backed by a modest 1.4‑kWh pack. The setup lets the car run in EV mode for up to 80 % of typical city commutes, although the official ARAI mileage figure still hangs in the balance, with early estimates hovering around 22–25 km/l.
India’s 2026 EV mandate, which pushes for 30 % electrified fleet by 2030, makes the Duster Hybrid a timely entry. Import duties on fully electric SUVs remain high, but the hybrid’s relatively low battery size keeps costs down, offering a cheaper alternative to fully electric rivals.
Renault plans to roll the hybrid out in tier‑1 metros first, with a city‑wide launch slated for early November. Prospective buyers should keep an eye on the official ARAI rating, as that will cement the Duster’s position in the price‑performance pyramid.