Renault Arkana E-Tech (2024 Preview)
We knew it was coming but weren’t sure when exactly it would arrive on Irish shores. Well, thankfully the new Renault Arkana E-Tech full hybrid has arrived to Irish dealerships and we will soon be spring a week behind the drivers seat. For now lets see what updates we can expect from the award-winning SUV coupé. Well, lets kick off with the fact that this latest generation model is set to debut with the introduction of the top-of-the range Esprit Alpine version. This premium trim level joins Evolution and Techno trims in a new simplified line-up, with all versions benefitting from better standard specification. Believe it or not the Ariana was designed as a hybrid from the ground up after its first unveiling in Europe back in October 2020. Over 163,000 have been sold and it now plays a pivotal role in Renault’s plan to reconquer the C-segment alongside the all new Megane E-Tech 100% electric and the all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid.
Features
With fantastic looks and generous interior space, the new Renault Arkana E-Tech full hybrid is instantly recognisable as an Arkana with some fresh revisions kicking off with the Renault Nouvel’R logo positioned in the centre of the smooth Deep Gloss Black grill. There is also a new aerodynamic blade on the front bumper finished in body colour on the Techno and Satin Grey on the Esprit Alpine, plus very slightly smoked crystal-like light lenses. The logo at the centre of the tailgate is Dark Chrome, matching the front logo as well as the lettering and tailpipes. You also might notice the chrome features such as the grille and window surrounds that are now Black, Satin Black or Deep Glossy Black depending on the version. Our favourite has to be the Esprit Alpine version with new 19-inch alloy wheels, Shale Grey and Deep Glossy Black badging on the wing and an aero-enhancing fin on the tailgate. Inside, the seats are a mixture of Eco TEP and imitation suede.
The seats now come with blue horizontal overstitching and the Alpine logo on the back, while the seat belts feature two blue stripes. The inside of the doors and the steering wheel have red, white and blue stitching and the cladding on the dashboard area facing the front passenger is slate-like for a tasteful colour combo. Standard equipment has been enhanced across the rest of the range, too. The Evolution now includes navigation as standard in the EASYLINK infotainment system, which also has Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The 7-inch screen now displays information across a larger area. As well as the aerodynamic blade matching the body, Techno has the same wheels as the previous R.S. Line and E-Tech Engineered versions. The logo and lettering at the rear are Satin Chrome.
Power
The smooth and powerful E-Tech full hybrid 145hp powertrain is now available on all trim levels. It interlinks two electric motors (a 36 kW main motor and an 18 kW High-Voltage Starter Generator) with a four-cylinder 1.6-litre 69 kW (94hp) petrol engine, a smart multi-mode clutch-less gearbox and a 1.2 kWh battery. There is also the TCe 140 mild hybrid engine mated to a smooth shifting 7-speed EDC automatic gearbox for responsive performance in both evolution and techno trims. Finally the new TCe 160 mild hybrid option gives drivers even more performance in the esprit Alpine trim level.
Safety
The Renault Arkana E-Tech comes with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) ensuring it will be one of the safest drives in its class. All models come with Active Emergency Braking System with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist with active steering, safety distance warning, tyre pressure monitoring, cruise control with speed limiter and Renault Emergency Call with SOS button that automatically engages in the event of an accident. A full suite of airbags is also standard fitment, along with Isofix child seat anchors on the outer rear seats and front passenger seat. In addition, S Edition models have Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert for added reassurance and assistance. R.S. Line models also get Easy Park Assist, capable of automatically performing parking manoeuvres to help you out of that sticky situation.
Costs
You can order the new Ariana E-Tech, with a 0% APR HP finance offer or up to €1,500 trade in booster. The 0% APR finance offer is available from Mobilize Financial Services; customers choosing this offer can save up to €3,500 in interest charges compared to high street bank rates. The 0% HP APR finance is based on a maximum finance amount of €25,000, 48 months term and 30% deposit and this offer is available on all orders taken from now and registered by 31st of January 2024.
Summary
We love the fact that this new Renault Arkana E-Tech bridges the gap between combustion power and full electric so easily! The full hybrid starts off in electric mode and can run on pure electric power for up to 80 per cent of the time in cities, which cuts consumption by up to 40 per cent compared to a standard petrol engine. The highly efficient drivetrain also results in CO2 emissions as low as 105g/km and includes an innovative e-save feature that can keep the battery’s charge at a minimum of 40 per cent. This gives drivers the extra backup to keep on driving in electric mode if needed, or perhaps to assist the engine on steep uphill slopes should it be needed. Overall its a clever vehicle and one we cant wait to spend some time with. Keep your eyes on our DoneDeal YouTub channel for a full video review.
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