► All-new Arkana
► Available with three hybrid engines
► Out now
You’re looking at the Renault Arkana, an all-new (for Europe) hybrid SUV that targets three key consumer trends; hybrid power, interior tech – and coupe SUV-ishness. It’ll add some extra presence and height to the existing model range when it arrives in the first half of 2021.
The Arkana slots next to the Mégane, Kadjar and Scénic and it borrows key design elements from all three. From some angles, it even looks like a swollen Clio with added chrome. The latter makes sense, because it’s based on the Alliance’s CMF-B modular platform which you’ll also find under the Clio and Captur. The Arkana, however, is much larger; 4568mm in length, 1571mm in height with a 2720 wheelbase makes it longer but lower than a Kadjar. It’s also a hybrid.
At the front, you’ll find the same light signature elsewhere in Renault’s range, and some of the same lines. Renault says it’ll be available in a sportier, more aggressive-looking RS Line trim too. The Arkana will launch in seven colours, including an RS Line only Valencia Orange, and 17- or 18-inch wheels are available.
The interior
The Arkana continues where the Clio left off, and offers a 4.2-, 7- , or 10.2-inch coloured cockpit screen depending on the trim you spec. The centre screen is available in 7- or 9.3-inch portrait in higher trims, making it a class leader – if you get the pricey one.
Wireless smartphone charging, adaptive cruise, AEB and blind spot warning is also present to make driving easier – while a 360-degree camera and parking sensors help when the journey has ended.
What about the engines?
The Arkana is only available as a hybrid and comes with a choice full E-Tech powerplant or mild-hybrid TCe 140 and TCe 160 engines. The E-Tech is the same used on the Clio and uses a 1.6-litre four-cylinder combustion engine alongside an e-engine and high-voltage starter generator.
Both the TCe 140 and 160 units use a 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo capable of 138bhp and 158bhp respectively. Both are paired with a 12V battery for better fuel consumption and CO2 figures.
How much will it cost?
Renault has revealed new pricing information for the new Arkana. It’ll come in three trim levels: Evolution, Techno and Espirit Alpine, with the former starting at £26,995. The entry-level Evolution gets automatic headlights and 17-inch alloys as standard along with tinted rear windows and heated door mirrors.
The Techno costs £28,995 and adds blind sport warning, parking sensors, rear cross traffic alert and 18-inch alloys. Inside it adds a 9.3-inch screen (over the 7-inch display in the Evolution) and ambient lightning.
Meanwhile the top of the range Espirit Alpine adds 19-inch alloys to the above, as well as black door mirrors, double exhaust pipes and F1-derived interior and exterior details. It’ll cost £31,295.