Renault is placing high bets on the upcoming third generation Duster and its seven-seat sibling as the French carmaker tries to overcome a tough period it has been enduring for a long time. More than a month ago, it was confirmed that Renault will name the seven-seat version of Duster as “Boreal”, both based on the Dacia Bigster concept that made its debut in 2021.
It has now been revealed that Renault will officially unveil the Boreal on 7 July 2025. The same has been revealed in an Instagram post by placaverde which is accompanied by a series of spy shots of the upcoming seven-seat SUV. The latest spy pics have reportedly been clicked in Brazil.
This suggests that the Renault Boreal is likely to make its debut in LATAM (Latin America) markets first followed by Europe and other countries. The seven-seat Duster has been caught testing on several occasions in the recent past. Like previous spy images, the latest ones show a test mule of the Boreal completely wrapped underneath a camouflage, this time parked inside a refuelling station in Brazil.
Renault Boreal: Expected Design
Based on the CMF-B platform, the Renault Boreal draws heavily from its smaller sibling and the Bigster concept first showcased in 2021. Recent spy shots reveal a heavily camouflaged SUV featuring Renault’s signature front grille with horizontal slats and a distinctive split headlamp setup. A sleek LED DRL strip flows into the upper section of the grille, which may receive a chrome finish. The front bumper looks muscular and incorporates a broad, all-black mesh grille.
In profile, the Boreal displays a strong stance with pronounced wheel arches and sculpted body panels likely to feature bold character lines for added road presence. The chrome accents on the front door window sills lend a premium touch. Notably, the rear door handles are integrated into the C-pillar, offering a cleaner look.
Although the third-row windows were partially covered, they appear generously sized, promising a light and airy cabin for rear passengers. At the rear, the SUV is equipped with a solid, possibly electric tailgate and a sporty roof spoiler, further emphasizing its rugged appeal.
Renault Boreal: Expected Interiors & Features
So far, spy shots haven’t revealed the interior of the Renault Boreal. However, given its close ties to the Duster, it’s reasonable to expect a cabin layout that mirrors its five-seat sibling. The Boreal is likely to feature a sporty 3-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel and hexagonal air vents with bold Y-shaped accents, adding a touch of modern flair to the interior.
Taking center stage on the dashboard will be a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, providing intuitive access to entertainment and connectivity options. Expected features include a practical mobile phone mount, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless charging, a fully digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, ventilated front seats, and a premium 6-speaker Arkamys 3D sound system for an immersive audio experience.
Renault Boreal: Expected powertrain
Globally, the Renault Boreal will be offered with multiple engine options, shared with its five-seat counterpart. These include a 1.6-litre petrol hybrid powertrain and a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Renault has also indicated plans to introduce a strong hybrid powertrain for the Indian market, which is expected to be available on both the Duster and the Boreal.
Similar to the Duster, the Boreal will be offered in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, depending on the market. Both models are set to feature multiple terrain modes such as Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-Road, and Eco for enhanced versatility. The Boreal is expected to debut in India by late 2026 or early 2027.
