Renault’s Upcoming 7-Seater SUV Could Be A Bigger Duster Inspired By Dacia Bigster

Renault is expected to launch a new 7-seater SUV based on the Renault Duster with a longer wheelbase. This upcoming SUV is likely to arrive later this year and could be positioned as a premium hybrid family SUV.

The French automaker recently reintroduced the Duster, one of its most iconic and successful nameplates in India. The Duster played a major role in shaping the compact SUV segment in the country and remains one of Renault's strongest brand identities.

Renault's New 7-Seater SUV Based On Duster

Renault's next big launch could be a larger three-row SUV based on the same CMF-B platform as the Duster. This model is expected to take inspiration from the Dacia Bigster, which is essentially a larger and more premium version of the Duster sold in Europe.

The upcoming SUV is expected to feature a longer wheelbase, more cabin space, and a more premium set of features aimed at family buyers. It also gets a longer rear overhang, which indicates improved rear-seat space and better practicality for third-row occupants.

Hybrid Powertrains

The Renault Duster is currently expected to be offered with three engine options, including a 1.0-litre turbo petrol, 1.3-litre turbo petrol, and the upcoming 1.8-litre naturally aspirated strong hybrid powertrain. The hybrid variant is likely to be launched during the upcoming festive season. Renault is unlikely to offer diesel engines in this SUV, as diesel powertrains are not part of the company's current India roadmap.

For the 7-seater SUV, Renault could use the same hybrid-focused strategy. The new model could offer a 1.2-litre hybrid and a 1.8-litre strong hybrid setup, similar to the Dacia Bigster. There is also a possibility that the 1.3-litre turbo petrol could be offered as an entry-level variant.

Spotted Testing In Chennai

During our recent visit to Chennai, multiple camouflaged test vehicles believed to be the upcoming 7-seater Duster-based SUV were spotted on the roads, hinting that the SUV is in advanced stages of development.

Once launched, this new SUV is expected to rival the Mahindra XUV700, Tata Safari, Mahindra Scorpio-N, MG Hector Plus, and Hyundai Alcazar. Pricing is expected to start above Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom), with a launch likely by late 2026.