Renault has officially pulled the wraps off its new Boreal SUV, a C-segment model designed exclusively for 71 markets outside Europe, marking a significant step in the brand’s global expansion.
Meet the Renault Boreal
Months after teasing a new C-segment vehicle, Renault has finally unveiled the Boreal SUV. This new model will be sold in various markets, including Brazil, Latin America, and Turkey, but not Europe.
According to Ivan Segal, SVP Renault International Operations, the Boreal is the fourth launch in their “International Game Plan.” It aims to elevate Renault’s market presence and boost sales in the competitive C-segment.
The name “Boreal” is quite fitting, derived from Boreas, the Greek god of wind. It also signifies the “north wind” in Latin, hinting at its powerful presence.
Bold Exterior Styling
The Boreal is a substantial SUV, measuring 4,556mm in length, 1,841mm in width, and 1,650mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,702mm. Interestingly, it’s larger than the upcoming Renault Duster in most dimensions, except for height.
Its front fascia draws inspiration from the Renault Niagara concept, featuring a long hood and distinctive scattered LEDs on the bumper. The SUV also sports a new 2D diamond-shaped backlit Renault logo, incorporating unique triangular elements found throughout the design.
From the side, the Boreal has a resemblance to a stretched Duster, complete with bulky body cladding and stylish 19-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. Even the door handles, with pull-type fronts and C-pillar mounted rears, echo the Duster’s design. The rear section, however, stands out with a large integrated spoiler and horizontal tail-lights inspired by the Renault Symbioz SUV.
Premium Interior Experience
Inside, the Boreal offers a refined cabin with soft-touch materials and a wide dashboard featuring laser-engraved textures that subtly form the diamond logo. The tech-savvy interior includes dual 10-inch screens for infotainment and the instrument cluster.
The touchscreen infotainment system comes equipped with Renault’s openR link multimedia and built-in Google services, allowing for convenient over-the-air (OTA) updates. For a superior audio experience, a premium Harman Kardon sound system is also part of the package.
Comfort is a priority with features like powered front seats (with a massaging function for the driver), dual-zone automatic climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. As a five-seater SUV, the Boreal boasts an impressive 586-liter boot capacity, which expands to a generous 1,770 liters with the rear seats folded down.
Advanced Safety Technologies
Safety is a cornerstone of the Boreal, which comes loaded with a comprehensive suite of features. It includes Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) with 24 functionalities.
These advanced systems encompass adaptive autopilot, active lane centering, and autonomous emergency braking, providing enhanced driver assistance. Additionally, the SUV features a 360-degree camera setup and both front and rear parking sensors for easier maneuvering and parking.
Power Under the Hood
The Boreal is powered by a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine, a unit jointly developed with Mercedes. Depending on the market, this engine will be available in either petrol or flex-fuel configurations.
It’s paired with a smooth 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The flex-fuel version is the most potent, producing 163hp and 270Nm of torque. The petrol-only variants offer slightly less power, ranging from 138hp to 156hp and 240Nm.
The Boreal can accelerate from 0 to 100kph in as little as 9.26 seconds. Drivers can also choose from four distinct drive modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and MySense, tailoring the driving experience to their preference.
- The Renault Boreal SUV is exclusively for 71 markets outside Europe.
- It features a bold design inspired by the Niagara concept and Symbioz SUV.
- The interior boasts dual 10-inch screens, Google services, and a Harman Kardon sound system.
- Safety includes Level 2 ADAS with 24 features and a 360-degree camera.
- It’s powered by a 1.3-liter turbocharged petrol or flex-fuel engine with a 6-speed DCT.
While the Boreal sets its sights on global markets, specific details regarding its potential launch in India remain unclear for now.
