Renault’s upcoming three-row SUV based on the new generation Duster has been spotted testing in India once again. The latest test mule was captured on camera by automotive enthusiast Mr. Shakthi in Chennai, which shows that the development of the India-spec model is continuing to progress. The 5 seater is already on sale, with the larger SUV likely to arrive in early 2027.
2027 Renault Duster 7-seater spied
Unlike the previously seen shots, in which the SUV was captured from multiple angles, this latest image offers a clear side profile. The extended rear overhang, long roofline and large rear quarter glass immediately reveal that this is a three-row version rather than the standard Duster.
The SUV retains an upright stance with a flat roofline, chunky wheel arch cladding and roof rails, maintaining the strong SUV styling seen on Renault’s latest global products. Door handles are also visible under the camouflage, while the rear quarter window appears significantly larger than the 5-seater model, helping to maximize space in the third row.
The rear spoiler extends further back, and the overall proportions look closer to the international Renault Boreal/Dacia Bigster than the standard Duster. The test vehicle was bearing a temporary registration plate of Tamil Nadu, indicating that local testing is now well underway.
Big SUV with more space
The upcoming SUV is expected to share its RGMP architecture with the new Duster, while offering an increased overall length to accommodate three rows of seating. When launched, it will become Renault India’s flagship SUV and will compete against vehicles like the Mahindra XUV7XO, Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus (upcoming MG Starlight) and Hyundai Alcazar.
Expected equipment includes a large touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a fully digital instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof, wireless charger, ventilated front seats, powered driver seat, connected car technology, automatic climate control, rear AC vents, Level 2 ADAS, multiple airbags, 360-degree camera and electronic parking brake.
Hybrid powertrain planned
Renault has already confirmed that India will get the strong hybrid technology. The company is expected to introduce the 1.8-litre E-Tech hybrid powertrain with the new Duster around Diwali 2026, and the same setup is likely to be offered on the larger three-row SUV as well.
Additionally, Renault and Nissan are preparing to localize hybrid powertrains in India through Horse Powertrain, which plans to invest around $370 million (approximately Rs 3,500 crore) in the country. Local manufacturing should help make hybrid variants more competitively priced while reducing dependence on imports.
Renault is planning an aggressive product offensive over the next 18 months – including the new Duster 7 seater and Bridger sub 4 meter SUV, as the French carmaker is preparing for a major comeback in the Indian SUV market. The latest Chennai view indicates that the development program is gaining momentum ahead of its expected launch in 2027.