New SUV from Renault has been spied yet again or wait, is it actually Renault or other brand?

Renault Boreal has been spied testing in India for the first time ahead of its expected launch in 2026. Interestingly, the test mule seen on Indian roads is actually the Dacia Bigster SUV, which Renault is using as a prototype for the Boreal. That’s why the spied model carries the ‘DC’ badging instead of the Renault logo.

Dacia Bigster Spied: What can we see?

Even though the SUV is wrapped in heavy camouflage, several design cues are still visible like the Bigster SUV’s front fascia with Y-shape LED DRLs; chunkier bumpers, big size lower air dam grille; and camera-based ADAS module visible through the windshield. At the rear, it features Y-shaped LED tail-lamps, a roof-mounted spoiler, large bumpers, and 19-inch alloy wheels. The rear door handles are integrated into the C-pillar, and the roof rails appear glossy and functional. The ORVMs get integrated turn indicators with cameras for the 360 view.

Renault Boreal: Design

Despite using the Bigster body as a test mule, Renault has already revealed the production design of the Boreal. Once launched in India, the Boreal SUV will feature a full-width grille, concept-inspired LED headlamps with Y-shaped DRLs, bold plastic cladding, aluminium skid plates, dual-tone paint finish, and a black contrasting roof – offering a strong, premium, and rugged road presence.

The cabin follows a premium theme with dual-tone soft-touch materials, laser-engraved accents, and ambient LED lighting offering 48 colour options.
A key thing to look is the dual-screen 10-inches, featuring a digital instrument cluster and a central touchscreen with Google-based infotainment. It’s important to remember that when Renault Boreal in India will come in three-row configuration and possible a 6-Seater version may be offered too.

Renault Boreal: Engine Specs

Renault announced during the unveiled event that the Boreal while will be powered by the 1.3 L Turbo Petrol engine, it’ll however be tuned differently based on regions. So, we can expect the power output of the SUV to be somewhere between 135 – 160 BHP, while torque output between 240 – 270 NMs. Additionally, it’ll be paired with a 48V battery enabling mild-hybrid system giving Idle Stop & Start System to achieve fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions. A Strong Hybrid will also be offered though it’s exact specifications is not yet known. It’s also worth adding that Renault could offer 4WD option as well.

Renault Boreal: Features

The SUV is loaded with tons of features such as –

• Powered front seats with memory and massage
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Rear AC vents with USB-C ports
• Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
• Wireless Charging Pad
• Harman Kardon 10 Speaker Sound System co-engineered with Jean-Michel Jarre
• Five sound profiles: Studio, Concert, Club, Lounge, and Immersion
• Multi-Sense Drive Modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, MySense, Smart (dynamically adjusts throttle, steering, lighting, and sound)
• Powered Tailgate

Safety-wise, it’ll get –

• Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold
• 360 Surround View Camera
• 6 Airbags
• Level 2 ADAS
• Disc Brakes for All Wheels
• Rain-Sensing Wipers
• Automatic Headlamps

Renault Boreal: Launch

Renault is currently in the testing phase of the SUV. The brand confirmed first it’ll the new-generation Duster in India, and then few months later, we expect the Boreal to launch. Expect the pricing of the SUV to start from Rs. 13 Lakhs, and give competition to the likes of Hyundai Alcazar, Mahindra XUV700, Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus.

Spied Image Source: babagexplorer