Key highlights
- Renault Duster hybrid model under evaluation for India
- 7-seater Bigster SUV also likely to get the hybrid tech
- Local production possible for the future Renault hybrid cars
Renault seems to be gearing up to expand its business footprint and product portfolio in India soon. The company has hinted that it is evaluating new smart fuel-type powertrains and products for future launches.
Also read: 2025 MG Hector is now E20 fuel compliant
Renault Duster hybrid, Bigster hybrid to debut in India?
As per an online report published recently, the French carmaker Renault is exploring the new fuel-type possibilities for the Indian market. The CEO and MD of Renault India, Venkatram Mamillapalle, recently revealed that the company is considering bringing new fuel-type products to India.
The brand admits that the Indian car market is a diverse one, and the possibility for hybrid powertrains is vast as compared to the mild-hybrids. Renault has recently stepped into the CNG market with retrofit CNG kits on its mass products like the Triber, Kiger, and Kwid.
Now, it is no secret that the brand is working on bringing the Duster SUV back in India. In fact, it is already on sale in the selected global markets.
Duster hybrid powertrain on the UK-spec model
While the CEO did not mention which product they are evaluating with the strong hybrid option, we can safely assume that it is going to be the upcoming Duster. It is sold with a 1.6-litre strong hybrid motor internationally, which generates 140 bhp peak power, combined with two electric motors.
It is also rumoured online that the company will launch a 7-seater version of the Duster later in India. Internationally, it is on sale and badged Bigster SUV. This model will share its hybrid powertrain with the upcoming Duster.
Lastly, the company is also said to be evaluating India as its future production hub for the hybrid powertrains.
Also read: Mercedes-Benz GLB SUV axed in India, new model coming soon
Our conclusion
The Duster moniker was very well established across India. It was a rugged compact SUV, which also offered the practicality of an AWD drivetrain. With the new-gen Duster, a strong-hybrid motor will not only make more sense, but it will easily fight with the best-sellers like the Hyundai Creta diesel and Maruti Grand Vitara hybrid.