The new Renault Duster has been revealed with a strong hybrid powertrain option, a first for the nameplate in India. The latest from Renault competes in the midsize SUV space, where only the Maruti Grand Vitara, Maruti Victoris and Toyota Hyryder currently offer a hybrid choice. Honda does not offer a hybrid setup with the Elevate at the moment, though the City midsize sedan has been equipped with one. But how do these vehicles stack up on paper when it comes to specifications? Let’s find out.
Renault Duster hybrid spec comparison
Duster has the highest power output
Renault Duster hybrid specs vs Grand Vitara, Victoris, Hyryder and City e:HEV | ||||||
| Hybrid system | Combined power | Combined torque | Transmission | Mileage | Battery size | Voltage | |
| Duster | 1.8L 4cyl + e-motor | 160hp | 172Nm | 8-speed multi-mode | Not available | 1.4kWh | 280V |
| Grand Vitara | 1.5L 3cyl + e-motor | 116hp | 141Nm | eCVT | 27.97kpl | 0.76kWh | 177.6V |
| Victoris | 1.5L 3cyl + e-motor | 116hp | 141Nm | eCVT | 28.56kpl | 0.76kWh | 177.6V |
| Hyryder | 1.5L 3cyl + e-motor | 116hp | 141Nm | eCVT | 27.26kpl | 0.76kWh | 177.6V |
| City e:HEV | 1.5L 4cyl + e-motor | 126hp | 253Nm | eCVT | 27.26kpl | Not available | 172.8V |
While we are yet to sample the Duster hybrid in real-world conditions, the above specs table suggests it takes a more performance-led approach than the rest. Its four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine is the largest by cubic capacity here, and paired with an electric motor, this hybrid setup delivers the highest peak power output. Torque, however, is only marginally higher than the Maruti and Toyota SUVs and trails the Honda sedan.
Renault SUV’s DHT gearbox stands out
The Duster’s 8-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) stands out as the others use an eCVT unit, known for a smooth driving experience. Also, its larger, higher-voltage battery further points to more electric assistance than the rest; while efficiency figures haven’t been revealed, Renault claims 80 percent of city drives are possible in EV mode alone.
Midsize SUVs offer most powertrains
Only PHEV is missing
Save for plug-in hybrid, midsize SUVs offer almost every major powertrain choice, including petrol, CNG, diesel and electric. Hyundai Creta is expected to adopt a hybrid powertrain in its next generation, due in 2027, and its Kia Seltos sibling is also set to follow suit. The new Tata Sierra’s ARGOS platform is hybrid-ready, giving the homegrown carmaker the flexibility to introduce a hybrid version in the future. Volkswagen and Skoda are also working on hybrid midsize SUVs for the Indian market.