PARIS — Renault is expanding its SUV range in Europe with the Arkana, a coupe-styled compact SUV first launched in Russia and South Korea.
Th Arkana will go on sale in the first quarter of next year with an optional version of Renault’s E-Tech hybrid powertrain, and new “micro-hybrid” gasoline engines.
Renault did not release prices or emissions data. The Arkana will be imported into Europe from Renault Group’s factory in Busan, South Korea.
The Arkana will use the same 140 hp hybrid powertrain introduced for the Renault Clio small hatchback this year, rather than the plug-in version used in the Renault Captur small SUV and Megane compact hatchback.
Renault says the E-Tech hybrid lowers emissions by 40 percent overall, and allows for 80 percent of urban driving in full-electric mode.
A 1.3-liter direct-injection turbocharged gasoline engine will be available with 140 hp or 160 hp. Both versions will have a 12-volt “micro-hybrid” alternator/starter, powered by an auxiliary battery under the passenger seat.
Renault says the micro-hybrid works with the engine in high-consumption phases, smooths stop/start performance and can regenerate energy during deceleration.
Renault says the Arkana is the first mass-market coupe-styled SUV in Europe. The body style was pioneered by German premium brands with the BMW X6 and X4, Mercedes-Benz GLC and GLE Coupes, Porsche Cayenne Coupe and Audi Q3 Sportback.
The Arkana is similar in dimensions to the Renault Kadjar, although at 4,568 mm it is 80 mm longer. It is 1,821 mm wide and 1,571 mm high, and has a wheelbase of 2,720.
The Arkana also gets a different interior than the Kadjar, similar to the latest Clio and Captur, with a digital instrument panel (in three sizes, depending on trim) and vertically oriented 9/3-inch central screen (on top trim levels) or horizontal 7-inch screen.
Trunk space is listed as 513 liters for internal-combustion models and 438 for hybrid versions. The rear seat folds forward to create an open cargo area.