The Renault Boreal, a medium SUV produced in São José of the Pinhais (PR), was spotted testing at Europa with a new mild hybrid configuration for the model. The version combines a combustion engine with an electric one on the rear axle, delivering on-demand all-wheel drive and a combined power of close to 180 hp. The captured images show details such as extra volume at the rear and a side exhaust outlet, confirming the presence of the e-4WD system. It is expected to launch on Brasil in mid-2027.
The electrified set derives from the architecture already used in the Dacia Bigster, the European equivalent of the Boreal. In the European model, the 48V mild hybrid system includes a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo combustion engine with 140 hp at the front and an electric engine with 31 hp at the rear, resulting in a combined 156 hp. The 0.84 kWh battery powers the electric motor, allowing it to run in pure electric mode for up to 60% of the time in urban use, with recharging via regenerative braking.
Renault adapts this technology to the Brazilian market. The Boreal must use the 1.3 TCe turbo flex four-cylinder engine, which produces 163 hp with ethanol and 156 hp with gasoline, associated with the six-speed EDC dual-clutch automated transmission. With the addition of the rear electric motor, total power approaches 180 hp, maintaining high torque and improved efficiency.
Mild hybrid system details
The rear electric motor operates with two gears and the possibility of decoupling. Essa configuration allows conventional 4×2 front-wheel drive, isolated electric rear-wheel drive or 4×4 all-wheel drive when required. The system provides extra torque at low speeds, simulating reduced function to improve performance on uneven terrain.
The 48V battery is compact and does not require external recharging. Ela stores energy generated during decelerations and powers the electric motor to assist the combustion engine or pure electric propulsion. Essa solution increases efficiency without significantly changing vehicle weight or cost.
Advantages of electric 4×4 traction
All-wheel drive without a mechanical driveshaft reduces complexity and weight compared to traditional systems. The rear electric motor responds instantly to grip demands, improving stability on slippery surfaces or light off-road. In urban use, frequent electric mode contributes to lower consumption and reduced emissions.
The system also offers versatility. The vehicle switches between traction modes depending on the driving condition, optimizing performance and economy. Renault develops this technology not only for the Boreal, but also for the Niagara pickup, which arrives in 2026 initially with 4×2 and 4×4 non-hybrid versions.
Adaptations for the Brazilian market
The Brazilian branch works on adjusting the set for local fuels. The 1.3 TCe flex engine stands out for its compatibility with ethanol, maintaining good performance and autonomy. The mild hybrid version should preserve features such as high ground clearance and trunk capacity, already praised in the current line.
Tests on the Europa validate the system under varied conditions. The prototype spotted features prominent protection at the rear to house the electric motor and a side exhaust outlet similar to that used in turbo configurations. Essas modifications indicate preparation for scale production.
Release Schedule
The Renault plans to introduce the 4×4 hybrid version in 2027. Antes In addition, the Boreal continues with conventional engines, including the 163 hp 1.3 TCe flex. The brand is betting on this evolution to strengthen its presence in the medium SUV segment, meeting demands for efficiency and all-wheel drive.
Development occurs in parallel with Niagara. The pickup debuts in 2026 with conventional 4×4 traction and a 1.3 TCe engine, possibly receiving mild hybridization later.
The Renault Boreal hybrid 4×4 represents a breakthrough in affordable electrification. The system combines performance, efficiency and all-wheel drive without major structural changes, positioning the SUV to compete in demanding markets.
