Designed for Latin America and the Middle East, the Boreal is a step in the right direction
- Renault has unveiled the new Boreal, which is designed for international markets.
- The crossover is based on the Dacia Bigster and features unique styling inside and out.
- Power comes from a turbocharged 1.3-liter engine producing up to 161 in some markets.
Renault’s international push continues with the all-new Boreal, which will be offered in over 70 countries outside of Europe. However, Europeans aren’t missing much as the model is essentially a restyled version of the Dacia Bigster.
The changes are readily apparent as the Boreal has a unique front fascia with a body-color mesh grille. They’re joined by compartmentalized lighting units and a prominent Nouvel’R logo.
More: New Dacia Bigster Debuts As A Bigger, Better Duster
Renault also mentioned a number of “prestige design features” including aluminum skid plates, a contrasting black roof, and 19-inch alloy wheels. They’re joined by a panoramic sunroof, metallic accents, and plastic body cladding.
Interestingly, Renault addressed the Bigster’s cluttered rear end and made it far more appealing. As part of the makeover, the model was given slender taillights, an edgy bumper, and a more curvaceous liftgate.
In terms of size, the model measures 179.4 inches (4,556 mm) long with a wheelbase that spans 106.4 inches (2,702 mm). This means the crossover has the same wheelbase as the Bigster, but is 0.6 inches (14 mm) shorter overall.
A Stylish And Functional Interior
The Renault-ified design continues in the cabin with a revised dashboard and new air vents. They’re joined by a 10-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch infotainment system with Google built-in.
Other highlights include laser-engraved accents, a 48 color ambient lighting system, and Blue or Cool Grey seats with contrast stitching. Buyers will also find a spacious cargo area that holds up to 62.5 cubic feet (1,770 liters) of luggage when the rear seats are folded down.
Renault didn’t provide a detailed list of equipment, but buyers will find power front seats, a wireless smartphone charger, and a dual-zone climate control system. The company also mentioned a refrigerated center console and a ten-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system.
Speaking of equipment, the Boreal offers up to 24 driver assistance systems including Active Driver Assist, which combines adaptive cruise control with a lane centering function. There’s also Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning, and Lane Departure Warning / Lane Keeping Assist. Other highlights include Safe Exit Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Hands-Free Parking.
A 1.3-Liter Turbo At Launch
The Boreal will be powered by a turbocharged 1.3-liter engine that is connected to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. In Brazil, it produces 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS) when running on petrol and 161 hp (120 kW / 163 PS) when running on flex fuel. However, the Turkish variant is far less powerful as it’s rated at 136 hp (102 kW / 138 PS) and 177 lb-ft (240 Nm) of torque.
One of the powertrains will enable the crossover to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 9.3 seconds. Additional options are likely as Renault mentioned models outside Latin America may “ship with other powertrain/transmission combinations, complementing the initial range.”
The Boreal will be built in Brazil and Turkey. The Curitiba plant will build the crossover for 17 Latin American countries, while the Bursa facility will make the C-segment SUV for 54 other markets including Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Mediterranean countries. The initial launch comes late this year in Brazil and will expand globally in 2026.
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