New Renault Duster hybrid vs midsize cars spec comparison

The new Renault Duster has been launched 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 + 2 e-motors	160hp	–	Multi-mode automatic	29kpl	1.4kWh \| 247V
Grand Vitara	1.5L 3cyl + e-motor	116hp	141Nm	eCVT	27.97kpl	0.60kWh \| 177.6V
Victoris	1.5L 3cyl + e-motor	116hp	141Nm	eCVT	28.65kpl	0.60kWh \| 177.6V
Hyryder	1.5L 3cyl + e-motor	116hp	141Nm	eCVT	27.97kpl	0.60kWh \| 177.6V
City e:HEV	1.5L 4cyl + e-motor	126hp	253Nm	eCVT	27.13kpl	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 two electric motors, this hybrid setup delivers the highest peak power output. Renault claims a 0-100kph time of 9.61 seconds, which it says makes the Duster hybrid the quickest in the segment. The brand has not revealed a combined torque figure yet, though the Duster’s traction motor produces 208Nm on its own.

Renault SUV’s multi-mode gearbox stands out

The Duster’s multi-mode automatic gearbox has two gears for the motor and four gears for the engine. Renault claims that this setup creates an 8-speed combination in hybrid mode, and it stands out as the others use an eCVT unit, which is known for a smooth driving experience. Moreover, the Duster hybrid’s larger, higher-voltage battery further points to more electric assistance than the rest. The French brand claims that 80 percent of city drives are possible in EV mode alone, while the Duster hybrid’s ARAI-certified mileage of 29kpl is the highest of all the cars here.

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.