Renault Boreal: A Bold 7-Seater SUV and Comfortable 2025

Introduction: Renault’s Global Ambition Comes to India

Renault has unveiled its latest creation for international markets—the Renault Boreal, based on what many know as the Dacia Bigster. This bold SUV is Renault’s bid to climb the market ladder beyond the Duster, offering contemporary styling, advanced features, and a spacious cabin for seven passengers. Expected to launch globally in late 2025, and in India by 2026–27, the Boreal marks a strategic push into the mid-large SUV space.

The SUV is designed to meet the changing needs of consumers who seek a combination of space, efficiency, and technology. Renault has long been a trusted name in Indian households, with the Kwid and Duster creating strong brand equity. The Boreal intends to build on that legacy, stepping into the competitive family SUV space with a globally viable product.

1. Striking Design & Robust Presence

The design of the Boreal is both rugged and refined:

Dimensions: Approximately 4.56 m long, 1.84 m wide, wheelbase 2.70 m
Exterior Highlights: 19 inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, aluminium skid plates, robust wheel arches, and floating-roof pillars
Lighting: Y-shaped LED headlamps and sleek full-width LED tail lights inspired by Renault’s Niagara concept
Latest fascia updates: Unique split headlights integrated into a mesh grille and compartmentalised rear design for a premium look

These elements combine to give the Boreal a commanding presence—a bridge between rugged SUV and crossover refinement.

2. Interior Experience: Spacious, Connected & Premium

Inside, the Boreal focuses on comfort, tech, and family-friendly practicality:

Dashboard: Dual 10-inch (or twin 10″ infotainment + 7–10″ driver display) screens with Google‑native infotainment
Audio & Atmosphere: Premium Harman Kardon audio and 48-color ambient lighting
Comfort Features: Soft-touch finishes, powered and ventilated front seats (massage on driver), dual-zone climate, rear vents, wireless charging
Seating Layout: Configured as a 5-seater globally, though a 7-seater version may come for India
Cargo Space: 586L boot with all seats up, expanding to 1,770L with rear seats folded

The SUV is expected to offer a flat floor in the second and third rows, improving comfort during long trips. The roof-mounted AC vents for rear passengers and foldable tray tables will make this SUV more practical than its peers.

3. Engine Options & Powertrains

Currently, the Boreal offers petrol and flex-fuel engines with manual or DCT options:

1.3L turbo petrol: 156–163PS and 240–270Nm torque, mated to a 6speed DCT; 0–100km/h in ~9.3–9.6s
Flex-Fuel (Latin America): Up to 163PS / 270Nm
India variants expected: 1.2L turbo petrol, 1.6L mild hybrid, or 1.3L turbo petrol

With India’s growing EV and hybrid appetite, Renault is also rumored to be testing an e-Power type hybrid technology. This would allow the Boreal to offer a balance between electric smoothness and ICE reliability.

4. Safety: Solid, With Room for Improvement

Safety is a core focus, though it has some limits:

Level 2 ADAS: Features adaptive cruise, lane-keep, AEB, blindspot warning, 360° camera, hands-free park
Airbags & Controls: Six airbags, ESC, EBD, ISOFIX, hill-start assist
Euro NCAP: Scored 3 stars—strong in child protection (85%), acceptable in adult occupant, but limited by fewer advanced airbag deployments

India-specific variants may receive updated safety calibrations and features to meet stricter crash test norms being implemented under Bharat NCAP. Renault has also announced intentions to improve structural rigidity in future iterations.

5. Market Positioning and Rivals in India

Renault Korea positions the Boreal as a major rival to established SUVs in India:

Hyundai Alcazar, Mahindra XUV700, Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus, and Kia Carens
Pricing in India is estimated at ₹18–25 lakh ex-showroom
Renault may also introduce a 7-seat version to maximize family appeal

In this space, price sensitivity, brand trust, and after-sales service will be key. Renault’s expansion of its dealership and service network by 2025 is a clear indication of how seriously it takes this segment.

6. Why the Boreal Matters for India’s SUV Market

Expands Renault’s reach in the high-volume mid-size SUV segment
Delivers premium features at competitive pricing
Brings ADAS and connected features into a segment where competitors often lag
Could spur rivals to innovate in family mobility and smart technology

The mid-size SUV segment is projected to grow by 25% CAGR in the next five years, driven by the demand for versatile, technology-rich, and fuel-efficient family vehicles. The Boreal fits right into this growth narrative.

7. Launch Timeline & Availability

Global rollout: Begins late 2025 in Latin America, Turkey, Middle East
India debut: Expected mid2026 to early2027
Production for India: Likely from Renault’s Chennai plant on the CMFB platform

Sources close to Renault suggest that production lines are already being prepped to localize the CMF-B platform, which will reduce costs and improve post-sales support.

8. Consumer Feedback & Enthusiast Commentary

Globally, the Bigster (and thus Boreal) have sparked interest among enthusiasts:

“I really like the look of the Bigster… but I was hoping for a bit more in terms of size”
“They are the same car for all intents and purposes… share 85% parts commonality”

This suggests appreciation for design, but some feel it may not be as spacious as anticipated.

Indian consumers are already reacting positively to concept reveals and teasers shared on Renault’s social media platforms, with anticipation building for a large, stylish, and value-for-money SUV from the brand.

9. Pros and Cons

Strengths

Strong design presence with rugged-modern appeal
Spacious cabin with premium materials, sound system, and ambient lighting
Large boot and flexible seating configurations
Rich ADAS and comfort features for the price
Global launch strategy and localization plans add value

Considerations

Only 3-star Euro NCAP safety rating
Some may miss diesel or mild-hybrid options at launch
Indian variants’ ADAS packaging unclear
Heated competition from segment peers

10. Final Verdict: A Bold Statement in SUV Strategy

The Renault Boreal (Bigster) is Renault’s strong offensive into the compact-crossover SUV realm. It combines striking design, family-focused space, premium features, and smart tech—all at a competitive price point projected in India around ₹18–25 lakh.

If Renault ensures local safety compliance, ADAS calibration, and includes seven-seater versatility, the Boreal could emerge as a compelling alternative to mass-market SUVs. Its global launch and India debut will be key in determining its impact on the evolving SUV landscape.

The Boreal is a significant leap in Renault’s global product portfolio and signifies the company’s commitment to India’s evolving automotive market. Whether you are a family looking for practicality or a tech-savvy buyer seeking features at value, the Boreal is shaping up to be a worthy contender.