Renault is working on the new-gen Duster which will launch in early 2026. This will be followed by the launch of its seven-seat derivative named Boreal at a later date the same year. Internationally, the Duster is available with multiple powertrain options including, mild-hybrid and strong hybrid.
It has now been confirmed that the India-spec Duster and Boreal will come with engine options beyond the standard petrol and turbocharged petrol units. According to Autocar India, Renault will introduce a strong hybrid powertrain option for the Duster and its bigger sibling within 6-12 months of their initial launches.
It has also come to light that Renault will begin the production of the new-gen Duster at Renault-Nissan’s Chennai plant this September which is in line with a market launch in early 2026. Initially, it will be offered with petrol engines only with no scope of a diesel mill in the future.Â
Renault Duster, Boreal: Expected powertrain
We still don’t know which hybrid powertrain will be offered in the India-spec Duster and Boreal. Internationally, the Duster is available with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine that is paired with two electric motors comprising a 48 bhp motor and a high-voltage starter generator and driven by a 1.2 kWh battery. Total system output is expected to be around 140 horses. The 1.6-litre petrol engine makes 93 bhp on its own.
An electric automatic gearbox comes as standard, and the brand claims the system enables pure electric driving for up to 80 percent of urban commutes. In comparison, the larger Dacia Bigster (Boreal) hybrid delivers a total output of 153 bhp, combining a 107 bhp petrol engine with a 51 bhp electric motor and a starter generator, all powered by a 1.4kWh battery.
Besides hybrids, Renault is also contemplating on bringing CNG-powered variants of the Duster and its seven-seat sibling, since the French carmaker is looking to diversify its product portfolio. While Renault works on an EV, the company’s focus is on compressed natural gas (CNG) and strong hybrid options for the Duster to cater to India’s varied fuel preferences.
