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New Renault Duster is currently available with three engine options: a 1.0L turbo petrol, a 1.3L turbo petrol and a 1.8L hybrid mill
The third generation Duster made its Indian debut a couple of days ago. While the version unveiled in Chennai arrived without an all-wheel-drive system, Renault has confirmed that a 4WD setup remains very much on the table for India should customer demand justify it. This flexibility is enabled by the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP), which has been developed to accommodate multiple drivetrain configurations without major structural changes.
Globally, the 2026 Duster already demonstrates what it is capable of when fully equipped. International-spec models offer a 4×4 Terrain Control system with five selectable modes – Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-road and Eco. In this configuration, the SUV gains a higher 217 mm ground clearance, approach and departure angles of 31 degrees and 36 degrees respectively along with hill-descent control operating at speeds of up to 30 kmph.
Off-road data such as wheel articulation and traction distribution is displayed directly on the infotainment screen. While diesel power has traditionally been a Duster stronghold, stricter emission regulations and tightening CAFE norms make investments for a new oil burner unlikely in the near term. Renault currently does not have a compliant diesel engine in its portfolio and developing one solely for India may not make commercial sense.
Also Read: All-New Renault Duster Debuts In Grand Fashion, Gets Hybrid Tech
That said, the company has left the door open – choosing not to rule out possibilities outright. Even in its two-wheel-drive form, the India-spec Duster doesn’t abandon its adventure roots. With 212 mm of ground clearance and best-in-segment approach and departure angles of 26.9 degrees and 34.7 degrees, it is positioned as a mild off-road capable SUV. On paper at least, Renault claims it is built to handle broken roads and demanding terrain with confidence.
In its existing powertrain lineup, the range-topper is the 1.3-litre turbocharged TCe 160 petrol producing 163 PS and 280 Nm mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed wet-clutch DCT. Below it sits the 1.0-litre turbo TCe 100 petrol with a manual gearbox. The biggest talking point, however, is the Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 which combines a 1.8-litre GDI petrol engine with a 1.4 kWh battery pack – enabling up to 80 per cent electric-only driving in city conditions.
Also Read: New Renault Duster Hybrid: All Top Features, Booking, Delivery, Specs Explained
With pricing due in March and deliveries starting in April 2026, the possibility of a future 4WD variant could further consolidate the Duster’s case in an increasingly competitive SUV landscape. A larger seven-seater variant will arrive next FY as well while the aforementioned hybrid version’s prices will be announced later this year.
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