Renault announces new Arkana
Renault is continuing to expand its model range with the All-New Arkana SUV set to go on sale across the UK from 2021. The mid-sized compact SUV offers a standout exterior design with a strong coupé silhouette, increased refinement, along with the latest in advanced hybrid technology and connectivity.
Combining SUV proportions with the sloping roofline of a coupé, the Arkana delivers space and practicality for the whole family in a package only slightly longer than the New Megane Hatchback. The new model will be built on the Alliance’s CMF-B modular platform which underpins the All-New Clio and All-New Captur, bolstering Renault’s existing SUV line-up, which currently consists of the All-New Captur and Kadjar.
The cabin of the New Arkana features the latest interior finishes and design touches to ensure a premium feel and finish as well as exceptional comfort for all occupants. This is combined with one of the largest digital displays in its segment thanks to two screens, as well as advanced connectivity systems which deliver seamless convenience and minimal distraction for the driver.
The All-New Arkana will be available from dealers with a selection of electrified powertrains featuring hybrid technology which ensures refined and efficient performance. The new SUV model will feature Renault’s latest full hybrid E-TECH technology while mild-hybrid technology will be offered with the 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbocharged direct injection TCe petrol engine.
The All-New Arkana will be available to order in the UK from July 2021, with first customer deliveries expected in September 2021.
Exterior design
The All-New Arkana features a sophisticated and sleek design which combines its elevated SUV body and ground clearance, with a coupé-like shape featuring muscular beltline and wide shoulders for a premium and assertive appearance. The front and rear skid plates and the wheel arch protectors enhance the SUV look, while the plunging roofline combined with rising window line deliver an agile and slender curved design that extends to the rear windows, enhancing the dynamic look.
The front grille, featuring a larger Renault logo in the centre, is flanked by chrome brightwork and trim elements which provide added elegance and sophistication. Below, the expressive front bumper enhances the dynamic design while the skid plate gives the car a robust look.
All-LED headlights feature the C-shaped lighting signature found across the rest of the Renault range and further underline the dynamic design of the All-New Arkana. The rear of the vehicle also features the C-shaped lighting signature with a strip extending over the whole width of the tailgate, emphasising the All-New Arkana’s taut and distinctive look.
The profile of the All-New Arkana is one of its most striking features. The unique coupé-style SUV outline of the car is instantly recognisable, combining a sleek and sturdy shape. Measuring 4,568mm in length, 1,571mm in height and with a 2,720mm wheelbase, the car’s overall size gives it a flowing profile. Chrome elements, such as the trim accentuating the windows, the side door protections and the front fender trim, further enhance the premium design.
Inside the Arkana
Despite the coupé-like body shape, the Arkana provides the levels of practicality expected of an SUV. The bootspace has a load capacity of 513 litres and features a raised floor and seats which can be folded completely flat. Meanwhile the front of the cabin offers a large amount of storage space, including a storage net on the passenger side with door pockets each large enough to hold 1.5-litre bottles.
The stylish architecture of the dashboard features modern ergonomic elements with the upper part covered with a soft feel foam lining, and each trim level boasting its own exclusive lining strip. All models feature chrome details across the door handles and air vents, while a leather-finished gear lever adds an extra touch of quality. Moving up the model range brings a leather steering wheel, with chrome inserts added to the dashboard and cup holder, and the upper part of the doors covered with a foam lining.
Engine options
Following on from the All-New Clio and New Mégane, the All-New Arkana will feature a full hybrid engine as well as offering a a 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbocharged direct injection TCe petrol engine combined with mild-hybrid technology.
The full hybrid powertrain will combine a 1.6-litre petrol engine with a lithium-ion battery and two electric motors for a total power output of 140hp., Following on from other E-TECH models, it will also feature a smart multi-mode clutchless gearbox. The system utilises advanced F1-inspired E-TECH technology and has been the subject of more than 150 patents. The ground-breaking combination of the electric engines and dogbox transmission optimises and smooths gear-shifting, whilst the architecture –the fruit of the Renault DP World F1 team’s labour – provides greater energy efficiency.
Technology
The All-New Arkana features the latest connected technologies as well as a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance systems.
A digital dashboard features a 4.2-, 7- or 10-inch Driver Information Display (dependent on the model), offering a personalised, intuitive driving experience. This is complemented by the 7-inch horizontal or 9.3-inch portrait Easy Link touchscreen infotainment display oriented towards the driver, ensuring heightened convenience for both driver and front passenger while ensuring distraction is kept to a minimum with easy-to-view information.
The centre console features a wireless smartphone charging system and an electric automatic parking brake with Auto-Hold option, as standard, while E-TECH Hybrid models feature the elegant e-shifter gear selector. The All-New Renault Arkana also gets four USB plugs (two at the front, two at the rear) for powering electronic devices and providing connectivity for all passengers.
With Renault Easy Connect, the All-New Arkana is able to access a number of services through the MY Renault app and the Easy Link multimedia system. It features continuous 4G connectivity and additional services offered by partners such as Google (address finder) and TomTom (real-time traffic information).
From remote vehicle control to real-time traffic information, including door-to-door navigation with the destination information sent to the car, vehicle location and remote door control, all systems aim to offer a unique connected experience, both inside the vehicle and outside, via the driver’s smartphone. The Renault Easy Link multimedia system and onboard mapping also provide automatic and regular updates thanks to “Over the Air” technology.
The Renault Easy Link multimedia system will be available in three configurations, all compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay; with 7-inch screen, 7-inch screen with sat nav or 9.3-inch screen with sat nav. Influenced by smartphone design, the Renault Easy Link multimedia system provides a practical, ergonomically designed interface. Users can create profiles and customise certain screens using widgets, enabling everyone to access their favourite features directly.