Renault Boreal 2025 SUV: Features, Launch, Price in India

A soft northern wind is stirring in the Indian SUV market—and Renault has thoughtfully named it Boreal. Borrowed from "Boreas", the Greek god of the north wind, and evoking the shimmering dance of the Aurora Borealis, this name carries more than just poetic flair. It signals Renault’s revival—sweeping, serene, and unmistakably bold—for the Indian buyer craving both value and style.

More than a facelift: A Duster with Wings

If the old Duster was Renault’s rugged pathfinder into India’s SUV segment, the Boreal is its evolved successor—stretched, sculpted, and loaded with intent. Built on the CMF-B platform, but measuring around 4.6 metres in length, the Boreal is a proper three-row SUV that trades brute charm for a refined, family-first attitude.

Design-wise, the Boreal borrows cues from its European cousin, the Bigster, but tailors its appeal for Indian sensibilities. Expect Y-shaped LED DRLs, an imposing front grille with an illuminated Renault logo, bold wheel arches, diamond-cut alloys, and generous ground clearance. It’s a head-turner with the practicality of a weekday warrior.

Tech, Comfort & Cabin Experience

Inside, the Boreal steps confidently into the premium segment. It features a large 10.1-inch floating touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, wireless charger, and premium upholstery. Segment-first features like front-seat ventilation and a 360-degree camera could sweeten the package.

Renault is also expected to include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control in top variants—although this is yet to be confirmed for India.

Powertrain Choices That Matter

The global Duster/Boreal twins come with multiple powertrain options, but for India, the Boreal will likely be powered by the tried-and-tested 1.3L turbo petrol engine that delivers around 150 bhp and 250 Nm of torque. Transmission options may include a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed DCT automatic.

Looking ahead, Renault is exploring hybrid options for India—including a 1.6L strong hybrid—in line with its global push towards greener mobility. A CNG or ethanol-blend version may also be in the cards, reinforcing Renault’s strategy to localize both power and purpose.

Launch Timeline and Pricing

Renault has confirmed that the Boreal is part of its “International Game Plan 2027,” and the SUV is expected to hit Indian roads by 2026 or early 2027. With aggressive pricing between ₹13 lakh and ₹23 lakh, the Boreal will lock horns with the Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus, and Mahindra XUV700.

Renault’s game plan hinges not just on price, but on packaging—offering hybrid tech, bold styling, and a three-row experience at a price that disrupts the segment.

Fan Pulse: Nostalgia Meets Expectation

Longtime Duster fans are watching closely. While some praise Renault’s ride quality and comfort legacy, others remain skeptical of after-sales support and long-term reliability in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

The Boreal will have to go beyond spec sheets. It needs a reliable dealership network, a robust service ecosystem, and a strong local supply chain to win trust beyond the metros.

Final Word: More Than Just a Breeze

The Renault Boreal isn’t just a new SUV—it’s a statement of intent. It builds on a strong legacy while embracing the demands of a rapidly evolving Indian buyer. Whether it becomes the SUV that blows away the competition or fades into the background depends on how Renault backs its boldest bet yet.

For now, it promises to be one of the most exciting names to watch in India’s SUV future.