Renault And Nissan Set To Unveil New Midsize SUVs In India By 2025

Published: Monday, June 17, 2024, 12:30 [IST]

Renault and Nissan are set to introduce their midsize SUVs to the Indian market by 2025. The new Renault Duster and Nissan's yet-unnamed SUV will share the CMF-B platform but will cater to different market segments. Renault's focus will be on the domestic market, while Nissan's model will be geared towards exports.

Price and Feature Differentiation

The Nissan SUV is expected to be more premium, with a higher starting price than the Renault Duster. The Duster will compete with affordable midsize SUVs like the MG Astor and Maruti Grand Vitara. In contrast, Nissan's SUV will rival models like the Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq, and VW Taigun.

Engine Options and Specifications

Both SUVs will likely offer three petrol engine options: the 1.0-litre HR10, 1.3-litre HR13 turbo-petrols, and a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol. The entry-level 1.5 NA engine may only be available for the Duster, while the Nissan SUV will feature more premium equipment in its top variants.

Design Differences

Teasers released in March show the new Renault Duster has a tweaked headlight design and a restyled front bumper. Nissan's SUV, meanwhile, will sport L-shaped LED DRLs connected by an LED light bar across the front. Both models will have brand-specific styling to differentiate them.

Export Focus and Future Plans

Sources indicate that while both SUVs will be exported, Nissan's model will have a stronger export focus. Additionally, seven-seat versions of these SUVs are expected to launch in India by 2026, with Renault's version likely to be more affordable.

DriveSpark Thinks

Nissan's innovative strategy marks a significant trend in the Indian automotive industry. It showcases a shift towards manufacturers establishing unique identities for badge-engineered vehicles. This move is expected to provide mutual advantages for Renault and Nissan, yet the consumer reaction to the elevated cost of the Nissan model remains to be seen.

The effectiveness of this plan relies on Nissan offering an appealing package that rationalizes the higher price point. A successful implementation could position Nissan as a formidable player in the upscale mid-size SUV market, which is currently ruled by Hyundai and Kia.