A three-row derivative of the Renault Duster was recently spied testing in India. Likely to be called the Boreal, as teased by Renault in April this year, this upcoming C-segment SUV is due for a global unveiling on July 10. Though unconfirmed, it could be a rebadged version of the Dacia Bigster, which is currently sold in international markets. For those not in the know, Romania-headquartered Dacia is owned by the Renault Group.
- The Boreal may share its powertrains with the Duster SUV
- Gets B-pillar mounted door handles, a prominent roof spoiler with raised ends
Renault Boreal: spy shot details
Thick body cladding, B-pillar mounted door handles
Both the front and rear bumpers have a chunky design, and thick cladding is present all around. Also notable were LED DRLs, pull-type handles for the front doors and B-pillar-mounted for the rear ones, thick roof rails and a prominent spoiler with raised ends. The Renault Boreal will most likely match the Dacia Bigster’s respective length, width and height dimensions of 4,570mm, 1,810mm and 1,710mm, and sit on a 2,700mm wheelbase.
Boreal’s LED DRL hidden by heavy camo.
As for the interior, not a lot could be seen apart from a central touchscreen unit in landscape orientation, possibly 10.1 inches. The Duster and its larger sibling will be manufactured at Renault’s Chennai plant for both domestic and export markets.
Renault Boreal powertrain
May share engine options with the Duster SUV
UK-spec Duster’s engine used for representation only.
The Renault Boreal might share its powertrains with the Duster, which is going to have a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine and a strong hybrid option as well; a naturally-aspirated petrol motor may also be offered. Further, manual and automatic transmissions are anticipated. CNG may also be on the cards for the Boreal, but an all-wheel drive system is unlikely as it may not be cost-effective.
Renault Boreal lndia launch, rivals
Likely in 2026
Renault may introduce the Boreal SUV a few months after launching the Duster SUV in early 2026. While the Bigster has been revealed as a 5-seater with a very large boot in markets abroad, the Renault equivalent is expected to be sold as a 7-seater in India. The Boreal will slot above the Duster, and rival the Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV700 and MG Hector Plus.
Also see:
Renault Duster EV confirmed by sister brand Dacia’s CEO
Renault Triber facelift spotted with redesigned fascia
