Renault recently announced its renewed strategy for the Indian market which centred around the new-gen Duster. Based on the Dacia Bigster concept first unveiled back in 2021, the third-gen Duster is expected to make its way to India early next year. This will be followed by a seven-seat SUV based on the same platform.
The French carmaker has now revealed the name of this upcoming three-row SUV. To be called “Boreal”, Renault says that this SUV will reach Latin American markets first and “progressively reach more than 70 countries”. The name Boreal is derived from the French language, making a statement about its roots.
Renault has also shared a teaser image of the SUV’s branding along with the new company logo embossed on its tailgate. The French carmaker hasn’t divulged any other details about the upcoming seven-seater SUV yet. However, we do know that Renault’s alliance partner —Nissan— will also launch its own version of this SUV with a completely different top hat.
Renault Boreal: Expected Design
Built on the CMF-B platform, the Boreal shares numerous design elements with its smaller sibling and the Bigster concept unveiled in 2021. Up front, it features Y-shaped LED headlights—similar to the latest Duster—flanking a sleek grille adorned with the Renault emblem. The lower bumper houses a large air dam with small cuboidal detailing.
Its bold character is emphasized by a flat, muscular bumper with a robust skid plate, flared wheel arches clad in thick black plastic, and sharply contoured panels that enhance its rugged aesthetic. Along the side, the rear door handles are cleverly integrated into the C-pillar. Standard alloy wheels come in 17- or 18-inch sizes depending on the market, while a premium 19-inch designer option is available for top-tier variants.
At the back, the Y-shaped light signature continues in the taillights. A blacked-out pillar creates a floating roof effect, while additional design touches—including door sill cladding, roof rails, a rear skid plate, and a roof-mounted spoiler—further underscore the SUV’s tough and sporty appeal.
Renault Boreal: Expected Interiors & Features
The rugged character of the exterior seamlessly transitions into the cabin, where a modern and stylish interior awaits. Inside, you’ll find a distinctive 3-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel and hexagonal air vents accented with Y-shaped design elements, adding a bold visual flair. At the center of the dashboard sits a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering easy access to entertainment and connectivity features.
Highlights of the feature list 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 that delivers an immersive audio experience.
Renault Boreal: Powertrain
Internationally, Renault will offer multiple engine options with the Boreal which will be shared with its 5-seat sibling. This includes a 1.6-litre petrol hybrid mill and a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Renault recently confessed they are looking at a strong hybrid powertrain for the Indian market which could make its way to the Duster as well as Boreal.
Like Duster, Boreal will also be offered with either a front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive setup, depending on the market. Both models will benefit from terrain modes including Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, off-road, and Eco. An India launch of the Boreal could be expected in late 2026 or early 2027.
