The Arkana, the latest addition to Renault's SUV family, has just “landed” in the Portuguese market, where prices start at 31,600 euros.
Developed based on the CMF-B platform, the same one used by the new Clio and Captur, the Arkana presents itself as the first SUV Coupé in the segment launched by a generalist brand.
And as if this alone was not enough to “put it on the map”, it still carries the important mission of being the first model of the “Renaulution” offensive, the new strategic plan of the Renault Group that aims to reorient the group's strategy to profitability rather than market share or absolute sales volume.
Therefore, there is no lack of interest in this Arkana, which explores a segment hitherto reserved for premium brands.
It all starts with the image…
The Arkana assumes itself as a sporty SUV and that makes it an unprecedented model within the Renault range. With an exterior image that combines elegance and strength, the Arkana sees all these aesthetic attributes reinforced in the R.S. Line version, which give it an even sportier “touch”.
The Arkana is, moreover, the fourth model in the Renault range (after the Clio, Captur and Mégane) to have an R.S. Line version, inspired by the Renault Sport DNA and, of course, by the “almighty” Mégane R.S.
In addition to the exclusive Orange Valencia color, the Arkana R.S. Line also stands out for its applications in black and darkened metal, in addition to displaying specifically designed bumpers and wheels.
Interior: technology and space
Inside the cabin, there are several points in common with the current Captur. This means that we have a more technological and sportier interior, although space has not been compromised.
The technological offer of the new Arkana is based on a digital instrument panel with 4.2”, 7” or 10.2”, depending on the chosen version, and a central touchscreen that can take on two sizes: 7” or 9.3”. The latter, one of the largest in the segment, assumes a vertical, tablet-like layout.
In the first level of equipment, the coverings are entirely in fabric, but there are proposals that combine synthetic leather and leather, and the R.S. Line versions feature leather coverings and Alcantara, for an even more exclusive feeling.
Coupé image does not compromise space
The Arkana's low, sporty roofline is decisive for its distinctive image, but it hasn't affected the livability of this SUV, which offers the largest legroom in the segment (211mm) and a rear seat height of 862mm.
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Clear bet on electrification
Available with Renault's E-Tech Hybrid technology, the Arkana offers a range of hybrid powertrains unique in the segment, consisting of the 145hp E-Tech Hybrid and the TCe 140 and 160 variants equipped with 12V micro-hybrid systems.
The hybrid version, called E-Tech, uses the same hybrid mechanics as the Clio E-Tech and combines a 1.6l atmospheric gasoline engine and two electric motors powered by a 1.2 kWh battery located under the trunk.
The result is a combined power of 145 hp, which is managed by the revolutionary multi-mode gearbox without clutch and synchronizers that Renault has developed based on experience gained in Formula 1.
In this hybrid variant, Renault claims for the Arkana combined consumption of 4.9 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 108 g/km (WLTP).
Two 12V semi-hybrid versions
The Arkana is also available in the TCe 140 and 160 versions, both associated with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and a 12V micro-hybrid system.
This system, which benefits from Stop & Start and guarantees energy recovery during decelerations, allows the internal combustion engine — 1.3 TCe — to turn off during braking.
On the other hand, the alternator/starter and the battery help the engine in phases with the highest energy consumption, such as starts and accelerations.
In the TCe 140 version (available right from the launch phase), which offers 140 hp of power and 260 Nm of maximum torque, the Arkana has an announced average consumption of 5.8 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 131 g/km ( WLTP).
Prices
Now available for order in our country, the Renault Arkana starts at 31,600 euros of the Business version associated with the TCe 140 EDC engine:Business TCe 140 EDC — 31,600 euros;
Business E-Tech 145 — 33 100 euros;
Intens TCe 140 EDC — 33 700 euros;
Intens E-Tech 145 — 35 200 euros;
R.S. Line TCe 140 EDC — 36 300 euros;
R.S. Line E-Tech 145 — 37 800 euros.