The New Duster is set to make its debut in India early next year, paving the way for the highly anticipated three-row variant that follows. We’ve previously shared insights about hybrid versions of both the new Renault Duster and its larger counterpart, the Bigster, and we can now confidently announce that the Duster hybrid is expected to launch within 12 months after the petrol model. The Bigster will arrive shortly after, featuring a robust hybrid powertrain.

Mark your calendars for early 2026 for the petrol launch of the New Renault Duster! Notably, it’s built on a CMF-B platform that accommodates ICE, hybrid, and electric powertrains. Additionally, both Duster and Bigster CNG models are also being evaluated.

New Renault Duster hybrid launch timeline

Production of the new Duster in India is set to kick off by September 2025, and this is genuinely exciting news! Earlier this year, we confirmed that the Renault Duster would be rolling out from Renault-Nissan’s Chennai plant this September, hinting at a launch in early 2026. What’s more, it will feature only petrol engines at first.

But that’s not all—sources at Renault have revealed that the Duster will not only include standard petrol and turbo-petrol variants but also strong-hybrid options down the line. These hybrids are anticipated to hit our market within 6-12 months after their initial launches.

While details on which hybrid powertrain will make its way to India are still under wraps, it’s worth noting that the international version of the Duster offers a robust hybrid option as well. The setup includes a 94 hp 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with two electric motors—a 49 hp motor and a high-voltage starter generator—backed by a compact 1.2kWh battery for an impressive total output of 140 hp. Plus, it comes with an electric automatic gearbox as standard! This innovative configuration ensures remarkable performance while being environmentally friendly.

Renault Duster Breaks Cover with New Platform & Power Boost

Renault is set to launch two SUVs, and Nissan will debut two models based on the innovative CMF-B platform, designed to take on the leading competitors in India’s SUV market. This versatile architecture supports internal combustion engines, hybrids, and electric vehicles, ensuring Renault can adapt to future trends effectively.

Renault’s approach to powertrains is both strategic and pragmatic. As Venkatram Mamillapalle, CEO and MD of Renault India, points out, we are not in an “EV emergency.” With electric vehicles currently holding a mere 1.5 per cent market share in India, he predicts that hybrids will lead the way by 2032 with a projected 15-18 per cent share, while EVs are expected to stay under 10 per cent. “The EV market is highly unpredictable,” he asserts. “Claims of leadership today are misleading – remember it accounts for only about 2 per cent of total industry volume.” This shows that Renault’s focus on balanced powertrain options positions them well for future success.

CNG Twist Coming Soon for the Renault Duster

Renault is smartly adopting a multi-fuel strategy that includes petrol, CNG, hybrids, and electric vehicles, and here’s why that’s a brilliant move. As they work on developing a new electric SUV, the focus on compressed natural gas (CNG) and strong hybrids is crucial to meet India’s varied fuel preferences. By partnering with companies like Minda Westport for CNG solutions, Renault is poised to adapt quickly to regulatory changes and shifts in market demand.

The unique dynamics of the Indian market make this multi-fuel approach not just sensible but necessary. With government incentives promoting hybrids and CNG usage alongside the existing infrastructure challenges for EVs, Renault’s strategy makes perfect sense from both a practical and economic standpoint. However, it’s vital that Renault keeps pace in the EV segment; as competitors ramp up their electric offerings, they need to ensure their EVs remain competitive. The upcoming Kiger EV must effectively balance affordability with an impressive range and features if it hopes to rival popular models like the Tata Nexon EV.