Boreal to be new Renault 7-seater SUV. Is it the bigger Duster?
Renault has officially unveiled the name of its upcoming 7-seater SUV, the Renault Boreal, set to join the Duster in its renewed push for the Indian market. Announced ahead of its global debut, the Boreal will be a three-row sibling to the Duster, built on the CMF-B platform. The Boreal is poised to make its mark in over 70 non-European markets, including India, with a launch planned for 2026 and is expected to come to India in 2027.advertisementRenault has plans to launch five new models in the next couple of years in India. Among them will be a 5-seater SUV, a 7-seater SUV and an electric vehicle (EV). The India-spec 7-seater SUV could be based on the Boreal. The new Duster is expected to enter the Indian market later this year. The company also opened a design centre in Chennai which will cater to both Indian and international markets.Renault trademarked the name 'Boreal' in India last year, fueling speculation about its intended use. The company also released a teaser showcasing the SUV's branding, featuring the new logo embossed on the tailgate.
The Renault Boreal shares its core architecture and design language with the new Duster, but its extended wheelbase—around 4.6 meters in length—accommodates a third row of seats, making it ideal for large families. Its exterior boasts Y-shaped LED headlights and taillights, a sleek grille with an illuminated Renault logo, and a muscular bumper with a robust skid plate. Flared wheel arches, thick body cladding, and a blacked-out pillar creating a floating roof effect enhance its rugged yet stylish aesthetic. The Boreal also features roof rails, a rear skid plate, and a roof-mounted spoiler, and alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 19 inches depending on the variant.advertisementInside, the Boreal promises a modern and tech-laden cabin. A 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay takes center stage, complemented by a 7-inch digital driver's display. Other expected features include ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging, a six-speaker audio system, and an electronic parking brake. Safety is prioritized with multiple airbags, electronic stability control, a 360-degree camera, and potentially Level 2 ADAS in higher trims, though ADAS availability in India remains unconfirmed. While Renault has yet to disclose full specifications, the Boreal is expected to share powertrain options with the Duster. These include a 1.6-litre petrol hybrid and a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine, with mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid setups.In India, the Boreal will compete in the three-row mid-size SUV segment, taking on the Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus, and Mahindra XUV700.Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine
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