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Renault Three‑Row SUV Spotted Testing in Chennai

The Chennai test mule signals Renault's push to make a localised seven‑seat SUV its India flagship with local hybrid production intended to cut costs.

Overview

  • The latest clear side‑profile images, published on Sunday, June 28, 2026, show an India‑spec test mule wearing temporary Tamil Nadu plates which indicates on‑road validation has moved to local testing.
  • Observers say the vehicle appears larger than the five‑seat Duster with a longer roofline, extended rear overhang and bigger rear quarter glass consistent with a third row of seats.
  • Reports indicate the SUV will sit on Renault's RGMP architecture and follow global Bigster/Boreal proportions while Renault and Nissan plan to offer a Nissan equivalent model.
  • Renault is reported to plan a 1.3‑litre turbo petrol and a 1.8‑litre E‑Tech strong hybrid for the model and is pursuing localisation of hybrid powertrains through Horse Powertrain with roughly $370 million of planned investment.
  • The model is expected to debut as Renault India's flagship in early 2027 and to offer connected features and safety kit such as dual digital screens, Level‑2 ADAS, a panoramic sunroof and a 360‑degree camera, which could make hybrids more competitively priced if localisation proceeds.