7-seat Renault Captur based on Duster-platform India bound - Report

Will first launch in Russia next year.

The Economic Times reports that Renault India will launch an SUV in October 2017, codenamed 'HHA'. The HHA will target the likes of the Mahindra XUV500 and the forthcoming Honda BR-V, apart from compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta.

The design of the SUV will be along the lines of the hugely popular Renault Captur. However, where the Captur is based on the fourth-generation Renault Clio platform, the Captur for India (and emerging markets) will use the Renault Duster's M0 platform.

Apart from switching to an older, albeit well localized platform, the M0-based Captur will also sport a longer wheelbase, and will offer seating for seven occupants. Renault India has well localized this platform on the Duster and the Lodgy, and hence, prices for the Captur are expected to be competitive. It'll also help engineers develop the vehicle quickly.

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Last week, a Russian report stated that the Captur for emerging markets will first enter production at the Avtoframos plant in Russia, from the second half of next year. For the Russian market, the Captur will also get the benefit of an AWD system, whereas the European model is sold exclusively with a front-wheel drive layout.

[Source - EconomicTimes]