Renault presented a new concept in Brazil, previewing “several” upcoming production models that will debut in international markets outside Europe by 2027. The Renault Niagara is a compact pickup with an adventurous stance and an E-Tech hybrid 4×4 powertrain.
According to Gilles Vidal, Vice President of Design at Renault, the styling language introduced by the Niagara concept is a preview of the brand’s future international line-up. The front end looks quite different from Renault’s current production offerings, adopting a futuristic split LED headlight treatment within a wide grille. Interestingly, the traditional rhombus emblem is traded for illuminated Renault lettering in the middle of the grille. Thankfully the badge is present at the rear, mounted on the full-width LED taillights.
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The profile of the pickup features SUV-style proportions thanks to the high beltline, the generously sized cabin, the sporty roofline with an integrated spoiler, and the rather short rear bed. The surfacing is typical of an off-road vehicle, accentuated by the large wheels and the massive ground clearance. The same applies to the prominent add-ons on the wide fenders, side sills, and bumpers, which appear to be made of a different material. In a quest to further spice up the exterior, Renault designers added a roof rack that holds a full-size spare wheel and two more at the rear bed, making it look like it’s ready to tackle Rally Dakar.
New Modular Architecture
The Niagara concept rides on Renault’s new modular platform which is said to be quite flexible in terms of lengths, body styles, and powertrain options, and will be used as the base for several new models. The concept measures 4.90 m (192.9 inches) long and has a wheelbase of 2.95 m (116.1 inches), comfortably placing it in the compact pickup segment.
The self-charging hybrid powertrain combines a mild-hybrid 48V petrol engine at the front with an extra electric motor on the rear axle. Renault didn’t give us the combined output but promised that this setup delivers off-road capabilities comparable with a 4WD system. At the same time, it reduces CO2 emissions thanks to its ability to remain in a fully electric mode for half of the daily driving.
Renault confirmed that the Niagara will influence the design of 8 brand-new production models set to debut by 2027 for international markets. Still, the company didn’t reveal whether the pickup concept will evolve directly into a production offering or if it will serve as an inspiration. In any case, a production version of the Niagara could become a fitting rival for the Ram Rampage, and Ford Maverick compact pickups, sitting above the smaller Dacia-based Renault Oroch.
