Renault and Nissan recently held their joint Annual Conference for the fiscal year 2023-24, where they unveiled their upcoming model lineup for the Indian market. Among the highlights are the anticipated releases of the New-Generation Duster and its 7-seater variant. Both French and Japanese automakers are gearing up to introduce Nissan-branded versions of these SUVs as well. Additionally, there are hints of two more undisclosed products in the pipeline for India, although specific details remain under wraps.
Renault-Nissan 5-Seater SUVs
Although Renault has not officially confirmed, the upcoming 5-seater SUV for India could likely be the New-Generation Duster. This has also debuted globally in February this year. Before this, the New Duster was showcased as a Dacia model last year, featuring some variations in styling. For the India-specific Renault Duster, expect to witness a bold front end with chunky looking bumpers and headlamps.
Meanwhile, the Nissan-branded 5-seater SUV is likely to feature L-shaped DRLs, C-shaped fog lamp housings, and a full-width LED light bar.
Both the New Duster and its Nissan counterpart will be based on the CMF-B platform. Upon launch, these SUVs will compete against rivals such as the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta Facelift, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Honda Elevate, MG Astor, and Citroen C3 Aircross.
Renault, Nissan 7-Seater SUVs
In addition to the 5-seater SUVs, Renault and Nissan will introduce their respective 7-seater derivatives. The French automaker has already started testing of the 7-seater Duster. However, it is likely to be marketed internationally as the Bigster. The nomenclature for the Indian market remains unsure.
Like its 5-seater counterpart, the Nissan branded 7-seater model will also be introduced. It will offer a distinctive styling. However, it may share common powertrain options with the 5-seater counterpart. Upon launch, the SUV will compete with the likes of Mahindra XUV700, Tata Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, and MG Hector Plus.
Renault, Nissan New SUVs: Launch Date in India
The New-Gen Renault Duster is slated for a global launch later this year, with the Indian launch of the 5-seater model expected in late 2025. The Nissan-branded version is likely to debut parallelly. The 7-seater model will follow suit after a specified interval. Apart from these SUVs, Renault and Nissan are also reportedly developing two other products for the Indian market, potentially in the electric vehicle (EV) segment.
