KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Renault Boreal spied testing in India for the first time ever
- Scored 3 stars in Euro NCAP
- Most likely to launch in 2026
- Will compete with other mid-size 7 seater SUVs
The Renault Duster, the original small SUV, is all set to make a comeback. Over the past couple of months, we've reported multiple updates about it, including the latest developments. Now, for the first time ever, the 7-seater version of the Duster - expected to be called the Renault Boreal - has been spied testing in India under full camouflage.
What makes this big news is that the global launch is scheduled for July 10, and yet it has already reached Indian roads. Let's dive into more details about this upcoming SUV below. In the meantime, don't forget to join the 91Wheels WhatsApp Channel to stay updated with the latest automotive news.
Also Read: Tata Harrier EV Base Variant In Picture - Adventure 65
Renault Boreal
In these spy shots, not much is clearly visible as the car is heavily camouflaged from every angle. The only indication that it could be the Boreal is its distinctive rear profile, which looks quite appealing. Interestingly, while this SUV is set to make its global debut on July 10, it has already made its way to India ahead of the official unveiling. Here is an interesting fact about this car, The original company is Dacia, an automaker from Romania, and it is part of the Renault group. Here it will be branded as the Renault Boreal, the 7 seater version of Duster. And, it will launch post its Duster.
Recently, its build quality and overall saftey of the passengers were tested in Euro NCAP test, and it scored 3 stars out of 5. To add more, In the Adult Occupant Protection report - Boreal scored 69%, and that's above above-average result. On the other hand, in the child occupant test - Boreal shines like a diamond - as it scored 85% on the test, and this crash test performance is based on 6 & 10-year-old children.
As of now, there is no concrete information about the powertrain it will come with, because according to the Dacia International website, there are three options - a strong hybrid, a mild hybrid, and an LPG-powered engine. However, there is no clarity on which of these powertrains will be offered when it launches in India.
Also Read: Land Rover Defender Octa Black Edition Unveiled!
Verdict
Renault Boreal, once launched, will compete with Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV700, MG Hector, and Hyundai Alcazar. Most probably, it will feature a turbo petrol engine of 1.5L and will only come with a FWD drivetrain. For a couple of months, the whole automotive sector has written about this car, and its excitement is real, as Duster made a name for itself here
