Renault on Tuesday re-launched the Renault Duster in India, marking not only the return of the once-popular SUV but also a broader strategic reset based on hybrid technology and a multi-powertrain approach.
Priced from around ₹ 10.3 lakh (ex-showroom), the third generation Duster re-enters one of India’s most competitive segments, taking on rivals like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.
Beyond pricing and features, however, the launch signals a shift in Renault’s India playbook. The basis is electrification, which will not be delivered through a fully electric plug, but through hybrids.
“It is still a small market because there is no supply. But we are strong and the results are very encouraging,” Francisco Hidalgo, vice president of sales and marketing at Renault India, told reporters about the country’s hybrid market.
The new Duster will be offered with several powertrains, including conventional turbo-petrol engines and a powerful hybrid system. The hybrid variant is expected to be unveiled later this year around the festive season and will serve as the technology flagship.
“Our experience in many parts of the world shows that the perfect replacement for diesel is the hybrid. The hybrid will be extremely efficient in city driving,” Mr Hidalgo said, explaining Renault’s hybrid push.
While the platform is also EV-ready, Renault will bring EVs to India when there is “natural demand”.
“Today is not a time for us when electric cars are selling at just 4%,” the top official said. The German carmaker is aiming for a 4-5% market share by 2030, while it is currently below 1%.
Published – 17 March 2026 21:42 IST
