Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Fortuner ‘tremble like a civet’ because the French brand SUV has just appeared

French carmaker Renaul is planning to bring the third-generation Renault Duster to the Indian market from around 2022 or 2023. Rumor has it that the automaker may also introduce a seven-seat version of the SUV. compact model based on the Dacia Bigster concept – a 3-row SUV concept that was launched earlier this year. The commercial version of this model can be called Dacia Grand Duster (Renault Grand Duster). Currently, there is no official information about the launch of this new SUV in India. Meanwhile, globally, the 7-seater Renault Duster is likely to launch later this year or early next year.

Below is the latest digital rendering of the upcoming 7-seat Renault Duster. Unlike the concept with distinctive Y-shaped headlights, the rendered model features larger headlamps with integrated LED DRLs. The slim front grille has been replaced by a larger grille that has the signature Renault badging in the center. The front bumper, fog lights and hood have also been revised.

However, the side panels of the Renault Duster look similar to the Bigster. The car has ORVM with the same body color and door handles, roof rails, black plastic body panels and alloy wheels. The modified 7-seater Renault Duster has a completely different taillight with the turn signals mounted. A pair of chrome exhaust pipes are located at the end of the rear bumper.

The Dacia Bigster concept has a length of 4.6 m and is based on the CMF-B platform of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. The 7-seat Renault Duster SUV (global spec) will also be built on the same architecture. Compared to its 5-seat brother, the three-row SUV will be longer and have more spacious cabin space.

It will be quite early to comment on the engine of the new 7-seat Renault Duster. In international markets, the Dacia Duster will be offered with multiple powertrains. The SUV’s CMF-B platform is compatible with “alternative energy” (such as LPG) and hybrid powertrains. In India, the 5-seater Duster comes with a 154hp 1.3L turbocharged petrol engine and 6-speed manual and CVT automatic transmission options.

The new 7-seat Renault Duster will be a difficult opponent to play against Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Fortuner.