KATHMANDU: Renault is reportedly developing a new 1.3-litre MPFI turbo-petrol engine for the Duster SUV in India. The new powertrain is aimed at reducing costs and making the SUV more affordable. It is also being developed with compatibility for CNG applications.
The new engine is expected to expand the Duster’s existing powertrain options. Renault launched the new-generation Duster in India in 2026 with two turbo-petrol engines: a 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit producing 99 BHP and 166 Nm, and a 1.3-litre direct-injection turbo-petrol engine producing 161 BHP and 280 Nm.
A strong hybrid powertrain producing 158 BHP and 208 Nm was added recently.
According to reports, the upcoming MPFI engine could reduce costs by up to 150,000 Indian rupees compared to the equivalent direct-injection version.
The new engine is expected to be derived from Renault’s existing 1.3-litre HR13 four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. However, it will replace the more complex direct-injection system with a simpler multipoint fuel-injection setup.
This change is expected to eliminate several expensive components, including the high-pressure fuel rail, direct injectors and gasoline particulate filter. It could also reduce overall engineering complexity.
The engine is also expected to get a revised turbocharger. It will be optimized for better low-speed performance and improved drivability. This could help address turbo-lag concerns associated with the current direct-injection engine.
The project is reportedly being handled independently by Renault’s India-based R&D team in Chennai. The team is working on market-specific specifications and a quicker development process, writes Autocar.
