So, Renault finally spilled the beans. The new Duster is all about petrol for now at least. And not just one engine. Three. Price will drop around March 2026. Spring launch, they say. Sounds simple? Not really. There’s always a twist.
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1.0-Litre Turbo Petrol The Base
The base 1.0-litre turbo petrol is familiar. Same as Kiger. 101bhp, 160Nm. Six-speed manual only. No CVT. I remember sitting in a dealer meeting during Kiger launch. He said Automatic buyers are happier sir True City traffic. Duster’s big. Heavy. Manual-only? Hmm Risky Buyers will think Pause Maybe rethink.
1.3-Litre Turbo Petrol The Real Hero?
Then comes the 1.3-litre TCe 160. 162bhp, 280Nm. Manual or dual-clutch automatic. Highway? A breeze. Overtaking? No drama. I’ve driven this engine in other cars. Smooth, effortless. But India’s traffic is a beast. Dual-clutch plus heat plus crawling roads? Could be trouble. If software or cooling slips, complaints flood in. Seen it happen. More than once.
1.8-Litre Hybrid GDi Turbo Big Talk
Now the hybrid. 1.8-litre GDi turbo petrol. Top-spec. Renault’s hybrid debut. 162bhp, 172Nm. Two electric motors, 1.4kWh battery, automatic gearbox. EV mode, petrol mode, combined mode. Regeneration too. Sounds fancy? Sure. But experience tells me, hybrids only work if driver doesn’t need to think. Else, frustration. They say festival season arrival Fingers crossed. Could be a game-changer. Could. Depends on execution.
Dimensions & Boot Space
| Feature | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 4.3 meters |
| Width | 1.81 meters |
| Height | 1.65 meters |
| Wheelbase | 2.65 meters |
| Boot Space | 518 liters |
| Boot Space (with second row folded) | 1789 liters |
Also read : 2026 Renault Duster Pre-Launch Bookings Are Open, Heres What You Need to Know
Final Take
Three engines. Options galore. Sounds good on paper. But India is messy. Traffic, roads, service, heat. Real-life matters. My bet? 1.3 turbo and hybrid shine if Renault delivers on service, software, and dealer know-how. Duster name still heavy. Reputation counts. Let’s see if 2026 brings glory or headaches.
