Source: Autocar India
Renault has officially revealed the Duster-based Bigster SUV, a major highlight of the 2024 Paris Motor Show. This new model is set to revolutionize Renault’s SUV lineup, especially in markets like India, where it will rival popular models like the Hyundai Alcazar, Mahindra XUV700, and Tata Safari. The Bigster is built on the CMF-B platform, shared with the Renault-Nissan alliance, and marks a significant leap from its sibling, the Duster, both in terms of size and features.
Dimensions and Design
One of the Bigster’s standout features is its size. At 4.57 meters in length, it’s around 230mm longer than the Duster, offering a roomier cabin and a larger footprint on the road. It also boasts a wheelbase of 2.7 meters, which provides enhanced stability and interior space. The ground clearance of 220mm emphasizes its off-road capabilities, aligning with the adventurous persona Renault is aiming to project.
The exterior design stays true to the concept revealed in 2021, with notable updates. The front fascia features a prominent black grille adorned with the Dacia logo (as the Bigster is branded under Renault’s budget subsidiary, Dacia, in Europe). LED headlamps and Y-shaped tail-lights contribute to a modern, aggressive look, while the body sports thick plastic cladding and chunky bumpers for an SUV-ready appearance. Dual-tone alloy wheels, available in 17 to 19 inches, add a touch of sophistication to the rugged profile.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Bigster offers a spacious, tech-forward cabin. While the model revealed at the show is a 5-seater, a 7-seater variant is expected for markets like India. The 667-liter boot space in the 5-seater makes it practical for family trips and long-distance travel. The interior layout mirrors the Duster, featuring a 7- or 10-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen. It also incorporates modern touches like Y-shaped motifs on the AC vents and an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) for higher-end trims.
Luxury is not overlooked, with features like a panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate, wireless charging, dual-zone climate control, and an Arkamys audio system. A powered driver’s seat and premium materials elevate the driving experience, offering a mix of practicality and comfort.
Powertrain Options
The Bigster’s powertrain options offer a variety of choices for different markets. In Europe, it comes with a strong hybrid setup: a 107hp 1.6-liter petrol engine paired with two electric motors and a 1.4kWh battery pack, delivering a combined output of 155hp. For those seeking a simpler setup, a 140hp 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology is available. This engine comes with a 6-speed manual transmission and optional all-wheel-drive (AWD), which includes terrain modes like Snow, Off-Road, and Hill Descent Control, making it an ideal choice for off-road enthusiasts.
An additional engine variant runs on both LPG and petrol, offering an impressive range of 1,450km between refills. However, European markets won’t receive a diesel option, though this might change for other developing regions.
India Launch and Market Positioning
The Bigster is expected to hit Indian markets in 2025, six months after the arrival of the new Renault Duster. The Indian version will likely be a 7-seater, designed to meet the growing demand for larger SUVs in the country. By adding another row of seats, Renault aims to position the Bigster as a formidable competitor against three-row SUVs from other manufacturers.
Sister brand Nissan is also expected to bring its version of the Bigster to India, adding further competition to the segment. Renault’s strategy of offering a more premium, spacious SUV with a focus on hybrid technology aligns with global trends toward sustainability while catering to consumers’ increasing appetite for larger, feature-packed vehicles.
The Renault Bigster promises to be a game-changer in the mid-size SUV segment. With its robust design, spacious interiors, and a choice of hybrid powertrains, it appeals to a wide range of customers looking for a modern, capable SUV. As Renault continues to refine its portfolio, the Bigster’s upcoming launch is a clear sign of the brand’s ambition to capture a larger share of the SUV market, especially in emerging economies like India.
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