Renault Duster 7-Seater SUV Spotted Testing In India: Renault’s next big move in India just got more real! A camouflaged prototype of what’s expected to be the 7-seater version of the Duster SUV was recently spotted testing on Indian roads for the first time.
Known globally as the Bigster or Boreal, this upcoming SUV is set to make its international debut on July 10, 2025. Interestingly, it’s already hitting Indian roads for tests, suggesting Renault has serious plans for our market.
Highlights
7-seater Renault Duster spied testing in India ahead of its global launch
Global debut scheduled for July 10, 2025
India launch likely in 2026, alongside the next-gen 5-seater Duster
Expected to get hybrid and EV versions later
A Big Duster With Bigger Ambitions
The Duster has always been a landmark product for Renault in India. Back in 2012, it kickstarted the mid-size monocoque SUV trend and gained a cult following. Now, Renault is gearing up for a comeback with the new-gen Duster expected in 2026, followed closely by this larger 7-seater version.
The SUV seen in the spy shots, captured by driftxp_, wore heavy camouflage and red temporary number plates from Tamil Nadu, hinting at internal testing operations. The vehicle appears to be a stretched version of the next-gen Duster, likely built on the same CMF-B platform that underpins other global Renault-Nissan alliance products.
Design-wise, this 7-seater SUV carries a strong road presence. Expect chunky roof rails, a sporty rear spoiler, beefy wheel arches, and stylish alloy wheels that could be 18 inches in size. The side profile is boxy and upright with large windows, while the front fascia resembles the new Duster with horizontal LED DRLs and a rugged stance.
The Indian SUV market is extremely competitive, and Renault is aware of this. To make an impact, the Duster 7-seater will need to pack in premium features. Expect things like:
A large touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
Fully digital instrument cluster
Automatic climate control
Panoramic sunroof
Keyless entry and push-button start
Rear AC vents
Ventilated front seats
Auto headlights and rain-sensing wipers
If Renault wants to win back the attention of Indian SUV buyers, it’ll need to offer the perfect blend of practicality, design, and tech – and this upcoming 3-row SUV seems ready to do just that.
While the exact powertrain details are still under wraps, Renault is expected to bring in hybrid versions of both the new 5-seater and 7-seater Duster. The focus will be on better fuel efficiency and lower emissions – something crucial in India’s rapidly evolving automobile market. There are even rumors of a fully electric, dual-motor all-wheel-drive version being planned for a global debut in 2027.
Launch Timeline and Expectations
The global unveil is set for July 10, 2025. As for India, both the 5-seater and 7-seater versions are likely to hit showrooms in 2026.
The new Duster and its bigger sibling could prove to be game-changers for Renault in India if priced competitively and offered with enough features to compete with segment leaders like the Hyundai Alcazar, Mahindra XUV700, and Tata Safari.
Stay tuned, because the return of the Duster saga is just getting started!
