FRANKFURT: To squeeze every last bit of profit out of the ever-expanding universe of SUVs, many car manufacturers are working hard to fill up even the tiniest crossover-shaped gap in their range.
Now Renault, like so many others, is trying its luck with another SUV, this time one with more of a coupe flair. The Arkana, set to launch in March and cost at least 27,850 euros in its home market.
The 4.57-metre-long Arkana is being wedged in between the Kadjar and the Koleos crossovers, but has a slightly longer wheelbase and, at least with the rear seat backs unfolded, a slightly larger boot with 513 litres. When the rear bench is folded down, it becomes 1,296 litres.
Equipped with LED headlights and a digital cockpit as standard, there are also many assistants available at extra cost. All-wheel drive, on the other hand, is not on offer.
At launch, Renault sells the Arkana as a TCe 140 with a 1.3 litre, 140 horsepower petrol engine with a mild hybrid system, or as an E-Tech 145 with a full hybrid drive. The latter combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine and two electric motors for a total of 143 hp.
For the mild hybrid, Renault quotes a top speed of 200kph and a consumption of 5.3 litres (122 g/km CO2). The hybrid has a top speed of 172 km/h, 4.0 litres and 92 g/km. Later in the year, there will be another petrol engine with 160 hp.
