Strong-Hybrid Renault Duster Coming by Diwali in 2026

Renault has finally geared up for the proper comeback in India, and the next-generation Duster has been set to lead that charge. The new Duster will be taking on rivals like Tata Sierra, Hyundai Creta, and Kia Seltos, also going up against strong-hybrid competitors like Toyota Hyryder, Victoris, and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara. Apart from the turbo-petrol engines, which were expected, Renault has confirmed that the new Duster will be offered with a strong-hybrid powertrain from Diwali 2026 onwards.

We have reported that Duster would feature the strong-hybrid petrol engine. The strong-hybrid Duster combines the naturally aspirated 1,789 cc four-cylinder petrol engine with the two electric motors, a 20hp unit acts as a generator and a 49hp motor powering the wheels. The system produces 160 hp and 172 Nm of torque.

The engine, codenamed HR18, got developed by Horse Powertrain, which is a powertrain solutions company owned by Renault as well as Geely and specialises in the design of combustion engines, hybrid systems and transmissions.

As with the full hybrid, the efficiency gains come with the low-speed electric running, regenerative braking and ability to keep the petrol engine off when it is not needed. The real-world fuel economy will still depends at the traffic conditions, ambient temperature, speed, and driving style. Renault claims the engine will enable 80 % of city drives to be done in EV mode.