Renault Arkana

Renault Arkana

Unveiled in October 2020 in its European version, Renault Arkana is a shining example of the Renaulution's success. Renault has sold 163,000 of this distinguished-looking Coupe SUV so far (240,000 in all, including Renault Korea Motors' XM3) and it is playing a pivotal role in the brand's plan to reconquer the C-segment, alongside Megane E-Tech electric and Austral.

Arkana has rewritten the rules with its Coupe SUV style combining zip and roominess, and is now selling in markets on several continents - ranging from Australia, New Zealand and Japan to Israel and on to Chile. Its upmarket versions - R.S. Line then E-Tech Engineered - offer extra character and vigour, and have contributed a lot to its success (they account for 53% of the mix in Europe in 2023). The best-selling powertrain is the E-tech full hybrid 145 hp (63% of sales in Europe in the first six months of 2023).

This engine is unparalleled on the market, the driving pleasure it offers is unprecedented and its energy efficiency is outstanding. It is the second criterion buyers look at when choosing a car, behind design.

NEW LOOK

The New Renault Arkana combines an original fluid feel, imposing demeanour and heavy-duty build with Renault's new identity, to ride even higher on the "Nouvelle Vague". The Nouvel'R logo is built into the grille, at the centre of the Deep Glossy Black band linking the headlights. This surface is entirely flush and smooth, making it even more elegant.


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Review: Renault Arkana E-Tech Hybrid 145 AT

Verdict

Once the dust and sun had settled, it dawned on me that the Arkana that we had driven from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. had never faltered. Renault’s attempt at injecting a hybrid model into its lineup is commendable, and the Arkana is by no means a mediocre HEV. From power delivery to interior refinement, the coupe SUV could rub shoulders with some of the established HEV models currently available. However, its projected price tag is the main drawback of its appeal. Time will tell if it eventually features on our market.

Renault Arkana E-Tech hybrid 145 AT Fast Facts:
Engine: 1,6-litre, naturally aspirated, four-cylinder
Transmission: Automatic multi-mode dog-clutch
Power: 67 kW @ 5 6000 r/min (combined 108 kW)
Torque: 148 N.m @ 3 600 r/min
0-100km/h: 10,8 seconds
Top speed: 172 km/h
Driven wheels: Front
Fuel consumption: 5,0 L/100 km (claimed) – 8,5 L/100km at Arkana endurance event
CO2 emissions: 98.8 g/km
Price: To be determined.

www.carmag.co.za

Review: Renault Arkana E-Tech Hybrid 145 AT

Hero of Renault's endurance event at Zwartkops Raceway, Ryan de Villiers shares his experience behind the wheel of the Arkana to determine if it can rub shoulders with the established HEVs already in SA.
www.carmag.co.za www.carmag.co.za
 
Renault Arkana, Captur hybrids impress in eco challenge - but why are they not for sale?

Formula 1 is no doubt one of the most expensive sports in the world and if you’ve seen any of the “Drive to Survive” shows you’ll know exactly why, despite the FIA capping the amount of money in an attempt to level the playing field.

There are, however, advantages for us lesser mortals whose driving is restricted to public roads in ordinary cars.

A lot of the technology developed around F1 eventually finds its way into our cars and that can only be a good thing as technology develops almost faster than we can keep up.

Taking a leaf from their involvement in F1, Renault has developed the E-TECH powertrains - hybrid and rechargeable hybrid - directly from their 2014 race car.

The same architecture has been transferred to E-TECH that combines an internal combustion engine with two electric motors: one for traction and the other as an alternator-starter, for a 100 percent electric start-up.

A “dog clutch” gearbox has also replaced mechanical synchronisers.

According to Renault the system has 150 patents, making the technology unique to the market.

We got to experience the technology for ourselves in a unique consumption challenge for eight hours around the Zwartkops racetrack that according to Renault “results in around 40 percent less consumption on an urban cycle for Hybrid E-TECH models.”

The cars in question were the Arkana Hybrid SUV Coupe and the Captur Hybrid.

 
Renault Arkana review

WHAT'S THE VERDICT?

“It will hit the spot for a certain customer who’s not really interested in cars and just wants something that looks good”

It doesn’t excel in any particular area, so at best the Arkana feels a bit clinical. At worst? Bland. There’s no doubt that it will hit the spot for a certain customer who’s not really interested in cars and just wants something that looks good, but coming from a company that’s nailed it with the new Scenic and Megane E-Tech Electric, the Arkana’s simply underwhelming.

There’s various reasons for that, chiefly the boring (and slow) powertrain and the firm ride. In fact, the Arkana’s main selling point is its interior space. Not something that stirs the soul, is it? It’s a pity there’s none of the quirkiness we’ve seen from Renault in the past. It means you have to shun several much better cars in order to own one.

www.topgear.com

Renault Arkana Review 2023 | Top Gear

The Arkana doesn't excel anywhere and ultimately feels too clinical
www.topgear.com www.topgear.com
 
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