Renault Bigster-Based Three-Row SUV Spotted Testing In India
Renault’s Bigster-based three-row SUV has been spotted testing in Chennai and it will sit above the new Duster in India.
Introduction
Renault is developing a new three-row SUV for India based on the Dacia Bigster, and a heavily camouflaged test mule was recently spotted testing in Chennai, revealing early details about the upcoming model.
This SUV will sit above the upcoming new Renault Duster in Renault's India lineup, and according to the company's plan, the three-row SUV is likely to be launched in the market in the second half of 2026.
What Is Dacia Bigster
The Dacia Bigster is a seven-seat SUV sold in the European market, measuring about 4.6 meters in length and featuring a wheelbase of 2700 mm.
These dimensions provide more interior space and help ensure adequate room even for passengers in the third row and global Bigster is built on the CMF-B platform. However, the version that will come to India is expected to be built on a different platform.
What the Test Mule Showed
The test vehicle seen in Chennai was covered with heavy camouflage, which made it difficult to clearly see the full design, although some important elements were visible in the video.
At the front, a large air dam, skid plate, front bumper, and LED turn indicators could be seen, which appear similar to the design elements found on the global Bigster model.
In the rear three-quarter view, an integrated rear spoiler and a stylish tailgate were visible, while the rear bumper also appears to have a bold design.
The test mule is also likely to be fitted with 19-inch wheels, although their design may differ slightly from the ones seen on the global model.
Platform and Design Changes
The three-row SUV coming to India will be based on the RGMP platform, which is also used in the new India-spec Duster SUV.
Just like it did with the Duster, Renault will make several changes to this vehicle as well, and the version coming to the Indian market will differ in many aspects compared to the global Bigster model.
There are also likely to be changes in the design, interior packaging, and powertrain options. The RGMP platform’s modular and versatile nature makes it suitable for larger vehicles such as three-row SUVs.
The platform will also feature a more modern electrical and electronic architecture, and the vehicle is likely to be offered with wheel sizes ranging from 16 inches to 19 inches.
Expected Features and Technology
The production version of this SUV is likely to get several features that are also expected in the new Duster, particularly a range of modern technologies such as:
- 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Arkamis premium audio system
- Powered and ventilated front seats
- Wireless phone charging
- Dual-zone climate control
- Powered tailgate
- 7-inch digital instrument cluster
- Panoramic sunroof
- Level 2 ADAS safety system
Engine Options
The SUV based on the Bigster is likely to get two engine options from the new Duster lineup.
The first option is expected to be a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing around 160 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque.
The second option is likely to be a 1.8-litre strong hybrid petrol engine, which is expected to be introduced around Diwali 2026.
For reference, the new Duster is expected to initially come with three engine options:
- 1.0-litre turbo petrol – 98 hp, 180 Nm
- 1.3-litre turbo petrol – 160 hp, 280 Nm
- 1.8-litre strong hybrid petrol – likely to arrive around Diwali
For the Indian Market
With this three-row SUV, Renault is trying to offer more choices in the Indian market while adapting the global Bigster to better suit Indian customer needs.
Using the RGMP platform will allow the company to offer a spacious three-row SUV at a competitive price. The inclusion of features such as ADAS safety technology and a hybrid engine also reflects Renault’s intention to bring more modern technology to the Indian market.
The upcoming model is expected to compete with other three-row SUVs in India such as the Hyundai Alcazar, Mahindra XUV700 and Tata Safari.
Launch Timeline
The new Renault Duster SUV will be launched in India on March 17, 2026, and this is expected to be the first step in Renault’s plan to strengthen its sales in the Indian market.
Following the launch of the Duster, the three-row SUV based on the Bigster is likely to arrive in the second half of 2026. However, the name of this production model has not yet been announced and is expected to be revealed closer to the official launch.
Hari Babu
I'm Hari Babu, a freelance automotive journalist with over three years of experience. I cover stories from national highways to rural roads and currently serve as Chief Editor at Gaadi Journal.
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