Renault is gearing up to bring back the Duster in a big way – this time as a 7-seater SUV codenamed Boreal (the India-bound name) based on the Dacia Bigster. The extended Duster promises space and new features, but how safe is it?
In Euro NCAP crash tests, the new 3-row Duster scored just 3 stars with about 69% adult and 85% child occupant protection.
We’ll break down what this means, list its key specs and safety gear, and see how it stacks up in India.
Euro NCAP Crash Test & Safety Rating
The stretch-Duster has now undergone Euro NCAP tests as the Dacia Bigster, bagging a 3‑star safety rating. In plain terms, the front and side crash performance was generally good (the passenger cell remained stable), but its driver’s chest protection was rated “weak” in full-barrier tests, and it lacks some far‑side collision safeguards.
On the plus side, child protection was excellent (42/49 points), and all child seats fit correctly.
The test model came standard with 6 airbags (front/rear and side-curtain), seatbelt pretensioners and load-limiters, plus ISOFIX anchors for child seats. It also includes a suite of driver aids – things like lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking (AEB) for cars, pedestrians, and cyclists, plus driver fatigue detection.
However, Euro NCAP noted missing features (no rear occupant alert or far-side crash mitigation) that kept the score down.
Packed Features of the 7-Seater Duster
Renault hasn’t revealed full details yet, but we know the 7-seater Duster (Boreal/Bigster) will be a stretched version of the new Duster with a 2700 mm wheelbase and roughly 4.5+ m length.
Inside, it should get the same modern cabin as the new Duster, but with a third row for 7 passengers.
Key expected features include:
Big screens: A floating 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment and a 10-inch digital driver display. (The dash layout and controls are carried straight over from the Duster.)
Comfort & tech: Dual-zone auto climate, a panoramic sunroof, rear AC vents, wireless charging, and a 6-speaker Arkamys sound system. Interiors use a grey-and-black theme, with durable materials suited to families.
Safety gear: As mentioned, expect at least 6 airbags, ISOFIX child anchors, and ABS/EBD ADAS will likely include AEB (car‑to‑car, pedestrian, cyclist), adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, speed limit, and driver fatigue alert.
Seating: It will have a full third row (2+3+2 seating) – perfect for big families. (Of course, folding the third row will free up a big boot area.)
Engines: India models will probably get petrol power only. Rumours say a 1.3 L turbo-petrol (possibly 4×4) and a 1.5 L NA are likely; Renault may add a mild-hybrid later.
In short, the new Duster 7-seater comes well-loaded: big screens, a sunroof, 6 airbags, and modern ADAS are all on the expected list. It will be far roomier than the old Duster, though that extra row will squeeze cargo space.
Launch Timeline, Pricing & Duster’s Comeback
Renault has been cagey on dates, but reports target a 2026 launch for the 7-seat model in India. It had been noted that the Boreal (7‑seater Duster) could debut here by 2026, while also expecting it in FY2026. (Older stories had talked of late 2025, but recent news suggests a slight delay.)
Industry buzz has the 7-seat Duster starting around ₹13–18 lakh (ex-showroom), which would undercut pricier rivals.
Crucially, this model replaces the old Duster in India. Renault’s last Duster (the first-gen one) was discontinued years ago, so this new lineup marks a comeback. The 5-seat Duster arrives first (likely in 2026), and the Boreal 7-seater follows.
Together, they revive the Duster nameplate, which was once a top seller here with fresh styling and features for modern buyers.
The bottom line is Renault’s new 7-seater Duster (Boreal) is shaping up to be an interesting “affordable 7-seater SUV” for India. It packs modern conveniences (big screens, sunroof, ADAS) and a family room, at a reasonable lakh price tag. Safety-wise, it’s only rated 3 stars in Euro NCAP, so it won’t break records, but it does come with key safety gear like 6 airbags, AEB, and ISOFIX.
Also Read: