Highlights:

All-New Arkana is Renault's first purpose-built hybrid car

A unique model, it is also the first Renault SUV with coupe styling

The All-New Arkana is powered exclusively by electrified powertrains: an advanced E-Tech hybrid and an efficient new TCe 140 mild-hybrid

The All-New Arkana E-Tech hybrid produces 145hp, while returning up to 58.9mpg, and produces as little as 108g/km in CO2 emissions

A new TCe 140 engine features mild-hybrid technology to boost the efficiency of the stop-start system and return enhanced performance

Both powertrains exclusively use smooth and responsive automatic transmissions for a refined and dynamic driving experience

Simple range line-up with Iconic, S Edition and R.S. Line specifications to choose from, with both powertrain options available for each

All models boast striking, athletic exterior design with distinctive features, with the sportier R.S. Line specification offering unique and purposeful details

Inside, the practical, high-quality interior includes the very latest technology features with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity

The latest EASY LINK touchscreen infotainment systems are available, including a 9.3-inch portrait touchscreen and over-the-air software updates

Imposing and sleek styling hides a practical interior with up to 513 litres of boot space on offer, with generous rear seat space with no compromise

The All-New Arkana was awarded a five-star crash safety rating by Euro NCAP, bolstered by a suite of the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

All models feature Active Emergency Braking System, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist

The All-New Renault Arkana is available to pre-order now, with customer deliveries taking place in late-August 2021. Prices start from GBP25,300 OTR

EXTERIOR

The All-New Renault Arkana makes a bold statement as the Renault brand's first-ever SUV with sleek coupe-inspired styling, yet it slots perfectly into Renault's range of eye-catching SUVs alongside the Captur and Kadjar.

With its athletic stance and sloping profile, the All-New Arkana combines modern design details and flowing silhouette with a purposeful SUV stance that adds greater road presence and enhanced visibility and practicality.

The All-New Arkana features distinctive 100 per cent Renault LED Pure Vision lighting complemented by signature C-shape LED daytime running lights, delivering an instantly recognisable profile from the front.

Lower down, skid plates offer an added touch of SUV ruggedness both at the front and the rear, finished in dark grey on Iconic, grey on S Edition and gun metal on R.S. Line models to offer unique designs across the three distinct Arkana specifications.

All versions of the All-New Arkana feature diamond-cut alloy wheels as standard, ranging from 17-inch 'Bahamas' wheels on Iconic to 18-inch 'Pasadena' on S Edition and 18-inch 'Silverstone' wheels for the range-topping R.S. Line with red spoke detail for an even more dynamic look.

Tinted windows and black lower door protection round off the design on all models, enhancing the side profile with a sporty look and either chrome or gun metal inserts, depending on the trim level, while chrome exterior trim details on S Edition add greater sophistication.

The dynamic Arkana R.S. Line offers a more athletic appearance with a range of sportier exterior enhancements that really accentuate the SUV-coupe's purposeful stance and design.

At the front of the R.S. Line, a range of muscular additions include an R.S. Line-specific front bumper with a Formula One-style horizontal front blade that stretches the full width of the front bumper, finished in gun metal, with honeycomb grille and gun metal skid plates.

R.S. Line badges denote the sportier model on the Arkana's wings, while gloss black door mirrors and window trim also ensure it stands out as the most dynamic model in the line-up along with the black lower door protection with gun metal insert. At the rear, R.S. Line models also feature matching gun metal skid plates.

A distinctive rear 3D LED lighting signature is standard across all Arkana specifications, with a light bar stretching across the tailgate from the lighting units to meet the central Renault badge, giving the Arkana a signature look from the rear.

S Edition and R.S. Line models can also be enhanced with an optional contrasting black roof, perfectly complementing the range of vibrant exterior colours - particularly Zanzibar Blue and Flame Red, while Pearl White, Glacier White, Metallic Black and Metallic Grey also offer an understated exterior look. R.S. Line models also come in vivid Valencia Orange paint for the most striking presence.

INTERIOR

Like the exterior, the interior of the All-New Arkana perfectly blends sleek sportiness with enhanced practicality. Clever packaging, high-quality materials and a spacious design combine to create an appealing SUV that offers no compromise to style-conscious customers in need of a versatile car with added kerb appeal.

The Arkana's raised SUV ride height means access is easy to a spacious cabin that's cleverly disguised behind the Arkana's sleek and sporty body. The front offers generous accommodation for the driver and front passenger, while the rear seats have been positioned to maximise the amount of head and legroom for even the tallest occupants. For those using the Arkana as a family car, the raised height makes accessing child seats easier, and the view out for all is unrivalled for a car with coupe styling.

Further back, TCe 140 models offer a vast 513-litre boot space with a movable boot floor to either maximise the entire load area or divide to offer a hidden compartment beneath the floor, while examples fitted with the E-Tech hybrid powertrain benefit from a 480-litre boot with no loading lip, and a flat floor when the rear seats are folded down - boosting the Arkana's versatility even further.

The interior of the All-New Arkana ties together Renault's latest technological features with high-quality materials and interesting and functional design that makes it easy to get comfortable and operate on the move, while still providing an inviting driving environment.

Full-width trim details with neatly integrated air vents and matching door panels add an extra touch of sophistication, while the central stack housing the infotainment screen, piano key-style buttons and heating controls are easy to operate, perfectly placed and finished in quality materials with a knurled finish to the control dials with integrated screens.

The Arkana's engaging cabin features Renault's latest digital displays, with 7.0- and 9.3-inch infotainment displays offering the most up-to-date digital experience and connectivity options, with over-the-air updates ensuring the slickest operation at all times, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto fitted as standard.

Interior ambience is enhanced further on R.S. Line models, with unique details that accentuate the sporting character. R.S. Line sports seats are upholstered in leather and suede-effect with red stitching and red detail, with matching red stitching to the door panels, gear lever and central armrest.

The red and black interior theme extends to the black headlining, carbon-effect dashboard panel and full-width trim strip, offering a cohesive, dynamic interior environment, set off by R.S. Line badging on the perforated leather steering wheel.

Arkana S Edition and R.S. Line models also feature a choice of eight ambient lighting colours to bring added vibrance to the interior, with illuminated strips along the doors and dashboard panel that can be changed via the MULTI-SENSE menus.

POWERTRAINS AND DRIVING

Designed from the ground up as Renault's first purpose-built hybrid car, the All-New Arkana offers an entirely electrified range of powertrains, with the advanced E-Tech hybrid and TCe 140 mild-hybrid complementing Renault's wider electrification strategy.

Renault's E-Tech hybrid powertrain technology has been extensively developed with knowledge and expertise gained from Renault's experience in Formula One, with 150 patents protecting the innovative technology. Following introductions in the Clio, Captur and Megane, the All-New Arkana is the first Renault vehicle to be available exclusively with hybrid technology, designed as a hybrid from the start.

The E-Tech hybrid powertrain combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with a 1.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and two electric motors, which combined, produces 145hp, 148Nm of torque from the 1.6-litre petrol engine and 250Nm of torque from the electric motors. This version of the Arkana will go from 0-62mph in 10.8 seconds.

The way the E-Tech powertrain is designed means it starts up in EV mode every time, ensuring the most efficient driving is possible from the beginning of the journey, which is particularly beneficial in urban areas. In EV mode, the All-New Arkana also boasts superior refinement and responses thanks to instant torque delivery from the electric motors.

Prioritising the electric motor is made possible by an innovative transmission with a 'dog clutch', that seamlessly transitions between electric and petrol hybrid power, while performing like a regular automatic transmission with fast responses and a smooth drive.

To truly personalise the driving experience, the driver can select from a range of MULTI-SENSE driving modes: My Sense, Eco and Sport.

In My Sense - the default driving mode on start-up - the Arkana E-Tech perfectly balances the driving experience automatically by using the electric motors and petrol engine in tandem to provide the smoothest and most efficient drive. Eco uses a more measured mapping of the accelerator pedal and adapted gear changing for the most economical drive. Sport harnesses maximum power from both power sources with enhanced responses for the most engaging drive.

The electric power is supplied by a small traction battery which recharges itself with energy that's recuperated under deceleration and braking, the force of which can be intensified by engaging a dedicated B-Mode function that applies increased regenerative braking for even greater energy recuperation. This captured energy is fed back to and stored in the battery which is located beneath the Arkana's rear seats.

As a result of the E-Tech hybrid's efficient design, running costs are low, with fuel economy of up to 58.9mpg and CO2 emissions as low as 108g/km.

Also available on all Arkana models is a TCe 140 petrol engine that utilises clever mild-hybrid technology. Offering 140hp and 260Nm of torque, this 1.3-litre engine propels the All-New Arkana from 0-62mph in 9.8 seconds, while also offering up to 49.6mpg and CO2 emissions of 130g/km.

The mild-hybrid technology works with a 12-volt starter generator that ensures faster and more refined operation of the Stop & Start function when coming to a standstill, while also reducing emissions at the same time. This new powertrain also features Sailing Stop function, where the All-New Arkana can coast during deceleration to reduce emissions. The feature can be switched on and off via MULTI-SENSE menus and operates in My Sense or Eco modes.

The TCe 140 engine is available exclusively with a seven-speed dual-clutch EDC transmission delivering smooth and refined gearchanges.

TECHNOLOGY

Technology is at the heart of the All-New Arkana's extensive specification list, with all models boasting a generous list of standard equipment, from infotainment and connectivity features to the very latest safety and driver assistance technologies.

These safety systems and the Arkana's strong, safe build have resulted in a five-star crash safety rating from the experts at Euro NCAP, with all versions of the SUV fitted with Active Emergency Braking System with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist, plus safety distance warning, a tyre pressure monitor and cruise control with speed limiter.

For added reassurance and protection, there are three Isofix points - two in the rear and one on the front passenger seat - while an SOS button with Renault Emergency Call is activated automatically in the event of an accident. Further driver assistance systems available include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, ensuring the safest drive for Arkana drivers.

Technology to make every day driving more convenient includes Easy Park Assist that automatically completes parking manoeuvres - aiding drivers in parallel, oblique and bay parking spaces, while parking sensors all-round assist on all versions.

Inside the All-New Arkana, a fully digital experience comes as standard, with the latest EASY LINK touchscreen infotainment systems and customisable instruments.

A 7.0-inch touchscreen features as standard on Iconic models, while S Edition and R.S. Line models get a 9.3-inch portrait version, fully configurable with widgets to prioritise most-used functions, with a simple menu system that's easy to navigate via the crisp and clear screen. Alternatively, all models come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, with a choice of areas to store a smartphone neatly on or below the centre console.

The EASY LINK systems are kept as up to date as possible via software updates over the air, ensuring the Arkana is always connected and always running on the most recent software available. All models with the EASY LINK system feature DAB radio with Bluetooth functionality, while the 9.3-inch version adds navigation with live traffic services and weather information, Google search functionality and 4G connectivity with automatic update services for three years.

To complete the digital experience inside, a 7.0-inch TFT display provides a clear overview right in front of the driver, with speed and driver assistance information displayed alongside clear physical dials for the fuel gauge and battery charge on E-Tech hybrid models.

Outside, all Arkana models feature the latest LED lighting technology, with Renault Pure Vision LED lights at the front providing a vivid and bright beam that makes driving at night easier and less tiring on the driver's eyes, while a C-shape daytime signature ensures it's visible and distinctive during the day.

Similarly at the rear, a wide-reaching light bar between the two lighting units ensure enhanced visibility while also offering a unique signature at night, with a detailed 3D design that helps the rear of the Arkana continue to stand out.

UK SPECIFICATIONS

The All-New Arkana range begins with the Iconic, which features high level of standard equipment.

Outside, Arkana Iconic models feature 17-inch 'Bahamas' alloy wheels in a diamond-cut finish, complemented by Renault Pure Vision LED lights, tinted windows and dark grey front and rear skid plates, providing a strong SUV look with elegant design details, which also includes black lower door protection with chrome inserts.

For enhanced convenience, the door mirrors are electrically adjustable and fold automatically when the car is locked or unlocked, while front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera make manoeuvres easy. Automatic lights and wipers, an electronic parking brake with hill start assist and cruise control also make life easier on the move.

Inside, the Arkana Iconic features black and grey cloth upholstery, automatic air conditioning, front and rear electric windows, a 7.0-inch TFT colour Driver Information Display (4.2-inch on the mild-hybrid version) and 7.0-inch EASY LINK infotainment screen featuring DAB, Bluetooth, USB sockets and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering a wide range of connectivity options.

Safety is important across the entire Arkana range, with Iconic models featuring Active Emergency Braking System, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist.

The Arkana S Edition takes things up a notch with a series of visual and technological additions. The exterior is enhanced further with 18-inch 'Pasadena' diamond-cut alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim detailing, grey front and rear skid plates and extra tinted rear windows.

Inside, the S Edition introduces the 9.3-inch EASY LINK touchscreen display, featuring navigation with Google search, traffic and weather information, complemented by a 7.0-inch display ahead of the driver.

Comfort is stepped up with black cloth and synthetic leather upholstery, a leather steering wheel and height adjustment for the passenger seat, while MULTI-SENSE modes allow the driver to not only tweak the driving experience with three modes, but also tweak the interior ambience with a choice of eight ambient lighting options.

Extra convenience comes courtesy of automatic high and low beam for the LED headlights, an auto-hold function for the electronic parking brake and an automatically dimming rear-view mirror, while extra driver assistance technology includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

At the top of the range is the uniquely styled Arkana R.S. Line. It stands out with bespoke styling element inside and out, denoting its place at the top of the Arkana line-up, with several cues making a nod to Renault's sporting heritage.

The exterior is enhanced with specific R.S. Line features, including the deeper, more aggressive front bumper with a full-width Formula One-style front blade, complemented by a honeycomb grille and gun metal skid plates which are replicated at the back.

Gloss black door mirrors with matching gloss black window trims add extra depth to the dynamic exterior, while R.S. Line badges on the wings and tailgate denote the sportier trim. The 18-inch 'Silverstone' alloy wheels feature a diamond-cut finish with a red element on one of the spokes, while double chromed tailpipes and gun metal inserts on the lower door protection complete the more athletic exterior design.

The interior design features just as much sporty design, with R.S. Line leather and suede sports seats featuring red stitching that also extends to the central armrest, seat belts, gear lever and perforated leather steering wheel. The black and red theme extends to the dashboard with a carbon-effect panel complemented by a red strip running the width of the dashboard, that also extends to the door panels.

For an even more engaging interior experience, the Arkana R.S. Line has black headlining and aluminium pedals, while there are added features including electric front seat adjustment, heated front seats and steering wheel, plus a frameless rear-view mirror and Easy Park Assist that offers drivers a hands-free automatic parking system.

GRADE WALK

See full release at:

https://www.press.renault.co.uk/en-gb/releases/2889

(C) 2021 Electronic News Publishing, source ENP Newswire