This is the Renault Arkana 2022, an all-new model from the French automaker that wants a piece of the SUV coupe market that Mercedes and BMW have been baking for a while now. Renault Arkana 2022 is based on the Renault Captur platform, but it is much longer and differs in the sloping roof line that resembles a coupe. In short, the Renault Arkana 2022 is an SUV that wears the cloak of a coupe.
The Renault Arkana 2022 made its debut at the 2018 Moscow International Motor Show, a sporty SUV coupe that really does look like it. It is reported that the Mercedes CLS and Nissan Juke followed the same method. Now, the French manufacturer is offering the Arkana as a crossover coupe that’s bigger than the B-segment, and not big enough to enter the C-segment.
And because it is still under testing, we will not review it, but we will only review in the following lines all the details related to the Arkana 2022.
Renault Arkana 2022 competitors
If you’re concerned about the
Renault Arkana 2022 SUV’s sloped roof design, you have several alternatives to choose from.
Like the Nissan Juke, the Renault Captur is cheaper but will give up some interior space.
And if the budget allows, you can get a more luxurious SUV like Hyundai Tucson or Nissan Qashqai.
Renault Arkana 2022 exterior design
Renault Arkana 2022 is actually an elongated-body Captur.
It is based on its platform, shares its most modern component set, and uses a torsion beam rear axle just like the Captur, but the Arcana is aerodynamically better in the higher classes.
It is manufactured by Renault-Samsung in Busan, South Korea, and has also been marketed as the Samsung XM3 since last year.
If you were wondering, Samsung Motors actually started as a car division within the electronics giant Samsung, and Renault acquired most of them just a few years after their inception.
The Renault Arkana 2022 First Series is based on 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Intens model gets 18-inch wheels in two colors.
Both models have a distinctive sloping roofline, while the RS Line model adopts a sporty look with black accents and wheels.
The face of the Renault Arkana 2022 is familiar as part of the Renault family, and its profile is less distinctive.
The C-pillar is always painted in the bodywork.
The black roof is a £300 option.
Renault Arkana 2022 interior design
Renault Arkana 2022’s association with the Captur is evident in the interior, and the dashboards on both cars are very similar.
But the Renault Arkana 2022 loses some features that make the Captur more prominent, as there are no soft-touch additions in the dashboard, and a glossy plastic panel that gives an aluminum feel.
Absent from the Renault Arkana 2022 is the Captur’s floating center console.
The physical tools for climate control work great,
Renault Arkana 2022 interior quality
Renault is set while cutting costs in the interior.
The first clue is that the PRNDB symbols for the gear selector are not lit, causing you to choose the wrong gear during night driving.
There are also some very cheap areas,
Most of the touch points are covered in leather, and the design is contemporary, maintaining the quality of the Renault Arkana 2022 as a respectable cabin, and I didn’t like that a bigger and more expensive car than the Captur fell slightly in quality.
The spaciousness and spaciousness of the Renault Arkana 2022
The Renault Arkana 2022 cabin is more spacious than the Captur.
And the rear legroom is wide, it is larger than the Nissan Qashqai and Hyundai Tucson.
The sloped tailgate does affect the rear headroom quite a bit, and fortunately, the slope is concentrated just behind the rear headrests, reducing its impact on the rear headroom.
The problem, however, is that the roofline affects the rear view and makes it very poor.
Plenty of room continues in the trunk, and the Arkana coupe shines with a square box, flat floor and lowered loading lip, which is the equivalent of the Qashqai. Renault has also ditched the spare wheel for additional boot-floor storage, but the rear headrests block most of your view through the rearview mirror, and the rear wiper has been increased. With the Renault Arkana 2022, to make matters worse, the rear view is reduced even more.
Interior space of Renault Arkana 2022
Part of the reason SUVs are so popular is the space they offer, so Renault has sought to design an SUV with a coupe body. The Arkana is less practical and more elegant than a regular SUV, and the higher height makes it easier for kids to get in and out, even with the sloping roofline.
But it does have a few storage boxes, with large door bins and storage under the center armrest.
Renault Arkana 2022 infotainment system
The cheapest Arkana model is the Iconic model, equipped with a 7.0-inch touch screen, and the latest entertainment system software called Easy Link from the French manufacturer Renault, which matches both phone systems, while the RS Line and S-Edition models have a 9.3-inch screen.
All in all, Renault has never been a pioneer in automotive digital technology, but you’ll get used to the system and it works just fine.
The volume is controlled by the screen, and you can switch between smartphone mirroring technology or choose the original interface on the go with a button that pops up at the top of the home screen.
Renault Arkana 2022 includes plenty of charging ports, a 12-volt socket, and two USB-A ports in the front and two in the back.
Renault’s 9.3-inch screen is clear, quick to load, and easy to use, but most customers prefer to send their phone apps to the car’s screen. On the other hand, the digital instrument cluster is now available, which is configurable.
Renault Arkana 2022 Powertrain Options
There are only two sets of motors shown.
The first is a 138 horsepower, 1.3-liter, four-cylinder petrol engine with mild hybrid assistance and a 12-volt hybrid system that powers the attachments when the engine is off.
Our road-tested car was powered by the E-Tech Hybrid 145 engine and mated to a full hybrid system, Renault’s latest electric powertrain.
It features a four-cylinder 1.6-liter engine, supported by two small electric motors, and a smaller unit that acts as a starter generator, sending movement to the wheels via a four-speed asynchronous gearbox without the traditional clutch.
The petrol engine is put in neutral to separate it from the driveline, so the car always runs on electric power.
To ensure there is enough battery for the running tasks, the engine starts the generator while in neutral.
To change gears, the gearbox has grapple clutches instead of a synchronous gear, while the electric-acting alternator can accelerate, decelerate and align the crankshaft to match revs and allow the gears to engage smoothly.
Renault Arkana 2022 engine performance
The 1.3-liter gasoline engine is linked to a 12-volt mild-hybrid system to complement the gasoline engine.
It generates 138 hp and has an acceleration time of 0 to 65 mph in 9.8 seconds.
This is fine on paper, and the fact is that the engine tries to keep the Renault Arkana 2022 in line with normal traffic, the engine suffers from roughness at medium revs, and when revs are raised, the automatic gearbox moves away when withdrawing from an intersection or overtaking.
I think the Renault Arkana E-Tech will be the most popular choice, generating the two small petrol engines and electric motors.
Total power of 140 hp, which is good enough for the Renault Clio but not quite enough for the 2022 Renault Arkana SUV, makes it take 10.8 seconds to go from 0 to 62 mph, but the engine fits and is in line with traffic in most cases, the Renault Arkana thrusts For a top speed of 107 mph, it is suitable for highway trips.
Driving feedback for Renault Arkana 2022
The Arkana’s sleek shape can make you feel fast, but that’s not true. Efficiency has been prioritized over driver excitement, a system used in many hybrids.
I’m glad the Arkana’s hybrid powertrain is so smooth, it’s even more refined if you don’t push the engine to move this massive chassis.
They are quiet most of the time, and are at their best when driving at low speeds.
The driving experience is decent, not exciting.
No complaints about handling, it’s gripping unless you push it hard, and you may struggle with the ride being a bit tough for a family-focused SUV.
Renault gave the car a more aggressive setup to give it a sporty look, but it didn’t have much success.
But I felt excessive sharpness when hitting bumps.
The line-up RS lineup offers sporty styling cues and a sharpened bumper design that makes it feel more dynamic from behind the wheel.
We found in Renault Megane a lot to like about Renault’s electronic technology system as plug-in hybrid, but the same system in Renault Arkana 2022 does not work very well.
During our testing on a wet track, the Renault Arkana 2022 sprinted from 0-62mph in 11.6 seconds, which isn’t too slow, but nonetheless disappointing when looking at the power-to-weight ratio.
The transmission is an exotic thing in Renault Arkana 2022, found in hybrid SUVs, and the clutch has been scrapped to eliminate friction and power loss.
Renault says one of the advantages of the E-Tech Hybrid system is its compactness, with the engine compartment tightly packed.
The maneuverability and stability of the Renault Arkana 2022
When merging into a highway or exiting a busy intersection, the Arcana gasoline engine is very likely to run.
The car also tends to hold lower gears for longer when accelerating, you can’t control the gears manually, and during gentle driving, you’ll be pleased with how smoothly the powertrain switches between electric and petrol.
Inside the city, there is plenty of electrically assisted movement available, while on the open road the power seems sufficient, and you can drive the Arkana in electric mode, but it’s not fast in electric mode, the engine power is only 48 horsepower.
Renault Arkana 2022 has good handling accuracy and balance, responds well, steering is adequate, the locking cycle is 2.6 revolutions, and it responds in a linear manner.
The Kumho tires give it good grip and agility in tide and medium-speed roads.
When pushing the Renault Arkana 2022 on the highway, it handles more lively, in slippery test conditions.
Featuring a safely controlled demeanor with some awkward movements due to the stability control system, the Arcana has chassis stability providing a light balance.
When tested, the brakes performed better than the Kia Niro Hybrid and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, coming to a stop after just 56.7 meters from 70 mph, and taking 3.07 seconds to stop from 60 mph.
Riding comfort in Renault Arkana 2022
The Renault Arkana 2022’s suspension is tuned fairly rigidly, but it doesn’t ride through the bumps as neatly as a typical SUV.
Its comfort levels are quite good;
But compared to more refined cars, the ride is choppy, sometimes a bit noisy and turbulent.
The quality of Renault Arkana 2022 seats helps make it enjoyable over long distances.
Despite its fabric upholstery and lack of adjustable lumbar support, it proves to be extremely comfortable thanks to its soft padding.
The driving position and adjustment range of the steering column are good.
Noise and vibrations Renault Arkana 2022
Driving Renault Arkana 2022 is not as smooth as many French cars, but it works great thanks to its noise isolation.
It’s quiet at city speeds, and switching electric and petrol modes reduces engine noise.
At higher speeds, the Renault Arkana 2022 remains quiet even at 90 mph, and cabin noise is lower than the competition.
And at high engine revs, it emits a loud, unimpressive noise.
The driver’s seat is set fairly high;
But the ceiling is relatively low.
But it doesn’t cause a problem, and overall the Arkana gives you a less spacious feel than you might expect from a relatively long car.
Safety and Security Features of Renault Arkana 2022
Most active security features are available, even in the cheapest tiers, and some are optional extras.
All categories get:
Independent emergency brake system
Lane departure warning
Help keep aisle
But adaptive cruise control is standard on S-Edition and RS Line models only
It lacks the stop-and-go and lane-centering functions and adds up for an extra £350.
Lane Departure Warning can be set to one of three sensors, and the system only activates at speeds above 44 mph, making it unobtrusive in everyday use.
This feature can be turned off with a special button, and I found that the blind spot warning on the S-Edition also worked well.
Renault Arkana 2022 operating costs
During our testing period, the Renault Arkana 2022 got 50.8 mpg mixed use.
It’s 10 miles better than the Captur, and marginally better than the Kia Niro hybrid, and because the Arkana has a battery under the car’s floor, so you keep a 50-liter tank, enough for 550 miles.
Value for money Renault Arkana 2022
The Arkana E-Tech should hold its value relatively well.
It is expected to be better than the Kia Niro and similar to the Hyundai Tucson.
But few competitors offer the same combination of space, value, and fuel efficiency.
If you can compromise on fuel economy, at the same time you can buy a well-equipped conventional petrol version of Renault Arkana 2022, which will provide you with a more reliable driving experience.
All in all, the mid-spec S-Edition starts at £28,600.
£3,000 less than the Toyota Yaris Cross and Captur Hybrid, and £3,000 less than the C-Class Hybrid SUV like the Hyundai Tucson.
Renault Arkana 2022 Quality
In its design, interior quality levels and performance, the car failed to stand out particularly well.
And it sacrifices some comfort while riding.
It comes with a decent infotainment system, while its equipment specs retain some useful safety features only in the more expensive segments.
In that light, the Arkana looks a bit more attractive, with ample luggage space and rear seat room, good long-distance comfort and impressive fuel economy achieved with an innovative and fairly simple hybrid system.
Renault Arkana 2022 standard equipment
Renault Arkana 2022 is available in seven paint colors, and it is likely that you will be able to order a range of accessories from your local Renault dealer.
The standard equipment level of Renault Arkana 2022 is also very good, as all cars get:
LED headlights
Front and rear parking sensors
back camera
cruise control
7-inch touch screen with DAB radio, Apple Play and Android Auto.
The S Edition offers a larger screen and satellite navigation, as well as larger wheels, ambient lighting and automatic high-beam assist.
The high-spec RS Line adds electric heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, automatic parking, and a sporty design inside and out.
Renault Arkana 2022 Reliability
We need some time to get a clear picture of the reliability of the Renault Arkana 2022, and because it shares many parts with the Captur and Clio, this increases confidence in it.
In fact, Renault Arkana 2022 and its newer models are doing well and it’s a good sign.
The Arcana, Captur and Clio are a huge step forward in terms of interior fit and finish.
Renault Arkana 2022 Safety Rating
Renault Arkana pledges to protect its occupants in the event of a collision, with a glowing five-star safety grade from Euro NCAP.
It scored 96% and 83% for protection for adults and children, and standard safety features and protection for pedestrians and cyclists also earned good marks.
In addition to the mandatory airbags, ISOFIX child seat points and anti-lock brakes, Renault has included Renault Arkana 2022 with advanced safety features such as:
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
Lane Keeping Help
Recognize traffic lights
An electronic communication system that notifies emergency services if you have an accident.
Blind Spot Monitoring has been added on the mid-range S Edition.
Front and rear parking sensors
rear view camera
automatic wipers
Hill Start Assist System
Renault Arkana 2022 features
The intelligent start with automated systems is amazing, especially the precise and responsive adaptive cruise control.
Google-powered navigation is easy to use and the center display is iPad-like, clear and well-placed.
Handsome exterior design with elegant interior
Powerful turbocharged engine and frugal hybrid engine
Includes a lot of standard equipment
Disadvantages of Renault Arkana 2022
An inexplicable mistake installing a rear wiper was an odd decision that weakened the already poor rear visibility and made it worse.
It’s big on the outside, but its cabin is narrow and compact on the inside especially the front
A sloping roof affects arcana height and headroom
The infotainment system is not an exciting step
A double-clutch car can be jerky
It’s more expensive than Captro and not very fast.
The rear seats do not slip and the seats are firm
The Renault Arkana 2022 prices range from $33,990 for the basic trim level SUV Arkana ZEN to $42,500 for the top of the range SUV Arkana R.s. Line.
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