Renault India, a wholly owned subsidiary of Renault Group, today announced the introduction of its globally acclaimed strong hybrid E-Tech 160 in India, marking a significant milestone in the company’s electrification journey in the country.The technology makes its Indian debut on the new Renault Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160, combining Renault’s globally proven hybrid expertise with the iconic SUV’s capability, practicality and versatility. Together, the Duster and E‑Tech create a compelling propositionfor customers seeking efficiency, performance and everyday usability in a modern SUV.
Developed through Renault Group’s extensive experience in electric mobility and motorsports, E-Techcombines the advantages of electric driving with the convenience of a petrol-powered vehicle, without requiring external charging infrastructure.At a time when Indian customers are increasingly seeking fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly and future-ready mobility solutions, Renault E-Tech offers an intelligent alternative by delivering an electric driving experience for a substantial part of everyday journeys while eliminating concerns around charging access and range. The New Renault Duster Strong Hybrid E‑Tech 160 becomes the first Renault vehicle in India to featurethis advanced technology and is available in Evolution, Techno and Emotion variants at a starting price of INR 16.99 lakh.
Renault Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 incorporates a 1.8-litre petrol engine, two electric motors, a 1.4kWh battery pack and an advanced multi-mode automatic transmission, together producing a combined output of 160 PS, offering the best-in-segment displacement, battery size, fuel economy and exhilarating performance.
Designed to maximise efficiency under real-world conditions, the system automatically switches betweenelectric, hybrid and combustion modes depending on driving requirements. The result is a seamless driving experience that combines performance, refinement and exceptional fuel economy. The New Renault Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 delivers an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 29 km/l, while enabling up to 80% of city driving in pure electric mode and offering fuel savings of up to 29% compared to diesel.
Built on the strengths that made Duster an iconic SUV globally, the Duster Strong Hybrid E‑Tech 160combines robust SUV capability with advanced technology. The vehicle delivers the commanding driving position, practicality and versatility expected from a Duster, while introducing a new benchmark for efficiency and refinement through Renault’s E‑Tech system.
Renault’s E-Tech technology benefits from more than a decade of research and development in electrifiedmobility and incorporates expertise derived from the company’s Formula 1 programme. One of its most innovative elements is the patented multi-mode automatic gearbox engineered to optimiseenergy flow between the engine and electric motors. To complement this innovation, the Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 comes equipped with B Mode in gear selector, which increases regenerative braking when the driver lifts off the accelerator pedal. This helpsrecover more energy and store it in the hybrid battery while reducing the need for frequent brake application in traffic and downhill driving situations.
Unlike conventional hybrid systems, the transmission enables multiple operating modes and gear combinations,helping deliver smooth acceleration, improved responsiveness and enhanced efficiency across varied driving conditions. The system is further complemented by features such as E-Save mode, which intelligently preservesbattery energy for later use, and an advanced regenerative braking system that helps recover energy during deceleration.
Most importantly, the battery recharges automatically while driving and during deceleration, ensuringcustomers enjoy the benefits of electrification without changing their driving habits.
Best Reason To Move Away From Diesel
With a combined output of 160 PS and an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 29 km/litre, the DusterStrong Hybrid E-Tech 160 offers both performance and fuel efficiency, qualities that diesel SUV customers traditionally have preferred. It offers customers evaluating alternatives to diesel a compelling new choice in an SUV designed for everyday versatility.
Commenting of the launch, Mr. Stéphane Deblaise, Chief Executive Officer, Renault Group India, said, “With more than one million E-Tech strong hybrid vehicles sold worldwide since 2020, the E-Tech strong hybrid is a proven Renault powertrain technology. Now, we are bringing it to India as part of our futuREady India roadmap. Our approach isto bring to the Indian customers the best of Renault’s global technologies, while developing cars, powertrains and features specifically for Indian needs through our engineering and design centres in Chennai, our biggest outside Europe. The Duster Strong HybridE-Tech 160 is a clear example of this approach.”
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Francisco Hidalgo, Vice President – Sales & Marketing, Renault GroupIndia, said, “In the Duster segment, nearly half of all diesel vehicles are sold in the ₹17–20 lakh price band, and that rises tomore than 90% for diesel automatics. That is exactly where the Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 comes in. Starting at ₹16.99 lakh, right at the heart of this market, we believe it is the smarter choice for customers considering diesel, combining significantlylower fuel consumption with a quieter, smoother and more sophisticated driving experience, without requiring customers to change how or where they drive.”
The New Renault Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160
The New Renault Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 combines Renault’s iconic SUV DNA with the company’slatest technology. Designed for customers who demand versatility without compromise, it brings together strong performance, advanced technology, class-leading efficiency and everyday practicality in a single package. While E‑Tech forms the technological heart of the vehicle, the Duster remains true to its SUV heritage,offering the robustness, comfort and usability that have defined the nameplate across global markets.
Beyond its advanced hybrid powertrain, the vehicle incorporates a suite of technologies designed toenhance efficiency, performance and everyday usability. These include Renault’s unique multi-mode automatic gearbox, intelligent energy management systems, frequency-dependent damping for enhanced ride comfort, advanced battery thermal management and a first-in-segmentbattery cooling solution.
Reinforcing its contemporary SUV appeal, the New Renault Duster Strong Hybrid E‑Tech 160 featuresan illuminated DUSTER logo integrated into the grille, lending the vehicle a distinctive and instantly recognisable road presence while underscoring its advanced technological credentials.
The New Renault Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 comes with a new dune brown leatherette set upholsterycombined with front ventilation & 6-way power adjust on Emotion variant. Further, the Techno variant gets new desert beige semi-leatherette upholstery. It has new headrest design for better perceived cabin roominess.
The New Renault Duster Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 is available in Evolution, Techno and Emotion variants.Bookings are already open across authorised Renault dealerships nationwide. Customer can also book their car through Renault’s official website – www.renault.co.in.
Protection, Convenience and Assured Value with Protect 360
Complementing the advanced E-Tech technology, Renault has introduced Renault ForeverProtect 360, a first-of-its-kind ownership program that combines convenience, protection and long-term value in a single package. Starting at ₹ 89,900, the program includes 3 years of comprehensive zero-depreciation motor insurance, 3 years / 30,000 km AMC,and an assured resale value of 60% after three years, providing customers with greater confidence throughout their ownership journey. With flexible financing options available through Renault Finance partners, Protect 360 reinforces Renault’s commitment todelivering a seamless and rewarding ownership experience.
Price Table:
Variants
Ex. Sh. Price
Evolution Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160
INR 16,99,000
Techno Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160
INR 18,99,000
Emotion Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160
INR 19,49,000
