Renault is ready to make some noise in India’s busy SUV space again. After showing off the all-new Boreal in its 5-seater form globally, Renault has now confirmed bigger plans for us. The big news? India will get a proper 7-seater version of the Boreal SUV.
When it lands, this new Boreal will lock horns with some tough rivals — think Hyundai Alcazar, Mahindra XUV700, Tata Safari and MG Hector Plus. If you’ve been eyeing a spacious 3-row family SUV with a fresh design and modern tech, this one might land right on your shortlist.
Styled Like the New Duster
The upcoming 7-seater Boreal won’t look very different from what we’ve already seen on the new Duster in Europe. Renault has given it a clean, bold face. The front gets the brand’s latest logo on a broad grille. Slim LED headlamps connect via a glossy black strip. The lower bumper looks wider and sportier too, thanks to a big air dam.
A neat touch is the door handles. The front ones are pull-type, but the rear door handles are cleverly tucked into the B-pillar. Helps keep the sides looking sleek. Chunky black cladding wraps around the squared wheel arches. Roof rails, strong shoulder lines and a small spoiler add more SUV attitude.
At the rear, it keeps things interesting with smart-looking LED tail lamps, a beefy black bumper and a silver skid plate. Overall, the Boreal looks like it’s ready for both city runs and weekend getaways.
Loaded Cabin Expected
Renault hasn’t shown the cabin yet. But going by the Duster and what the Boreal is expected to bring, you can count on plenty of goodies inside.
The 7-seater Boreal is likely to get a large touchscreen sitting horizontally on the dash. Expect it to come with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A 7-inch digital instrument cluster should be standard too. The steering will likely be a flat-bottom multi-function unit, adding a sporty vibe.
Renault could also pack in features like a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control and wireless phone charging. Powered front seats, terrain modes and ADAS Level 2 features could push it ahead of some of its rivals.
Safety kit should be strong too — multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control and traction control.
Engines: Petrol, Hybrid and AWD
The Boreal’s India version should share its engine with the new 5-seater Duster. That means a 1.3-litre turbo petrol pumping out about 151bhp and 250Nm of torque. Expect it to be paired with a 6-speed manual or a CVT automatic.
There’s more. A strong hybrid version is on the cards too. Globally, Renault’s 5-seater Duster hybrid uses a 1.6-litre petrol with two electric motors and a battery, putting out about 140bhp. For India, the Boreal could get a slightly different setup with around 155bhp combined power from a 108bhp petrol engine, a 51bhp electric motor and a bigger 1.4kWh battery.
All-wheel drive (AWD) versions are also expected. That could make the Boreal one of the few proper 3-row SUVs in India with AWD. Perfect if you want to tackle rough roads or head to the hills often.
India Launch Timeline
So, when will you see it? Renault is first lining up the 5-seater Duster for India. That should roll out late 2025. The 7-seater Boreal will follow soon after, likely in early or mid-2026.
The brand is betting big on its new SUVs to get back in the game here. And with the Boreal packing bold looks, modern cabin tech, hybrid power and possible AWD, it could grab the attention of big families wanting more than just another 7-seater.
Key Points
- 7-seater Boreal confirmed for India to rival Alcazar, Safari, XUV700, Hector Plus
- Shares design with new Duster: Bold grille, LED headlamps, hidden rear handles
- Chunky cladding, roof rails, stylish rear LED tail lamps
- Expected features: Big touchscreen, digital cluster, sunroof, wireless charging, terrain modes
- Likely safety kit: Multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, ADAS Level 2
- Engine options: 1.3-litre turbo petrol (151bhp), strong hybrid version (~155bhp)
- AWD variants likely for India
- Expected India launch: Early to mid-2026 after new Duster debut
If you’ve been waiting for a stylish new 7-seater that’s fresh inside and out, the Renault Boreal could be worth the wait. Renault seems ready to bring some proper family SUV excitement back to our roads.