Renault properly embraced the SUV coupe trend a couple of years ago with the Arkana. When it was first launched, there was curiously no hybrid powertrain in its line-up. Fast forward to 2021 and the Arkana is now available as an E-Tech 145 full-hybrid equipped with a 1.2kWh 230V battery.

Renault claims the new model offers all the benefits of electric power without the need to plug it in; all-electric mode is possible for up to 80 percent of city driving. Its maximum range though, depending on how it is used, is only 3km. The French brand also claims that its Arkana E-Tech hybrid averages 4.8l/100km and emits 108g of carbon dioxide per kilometre. 

The Arkana commendably does not compromise on the packaging either. The compactness of its hybrid system allows Renault to house the hardware in the rear axle without compromising on interior space. Opt for the sportier RS version (soon to be rebranded as Alpine) and you will make do with an e-shifter.

In addition to the E-Tech 145, the Arkana now also comes with a 12V micro-hybrid system combined with a more powerful 1.3 TCe 160 petrol engine in Europe. The new mill makes 160hp, 20 up from the TCe 140, and averages 5.7l/100km and 130g of CO2 per kilometre. Standard on both TCe 140 and 160 is the Sailing Stop function. It can be activated via Multi-Sense, which Renault claims can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by another four grams thanks to the freewheeling of the vehicle when it decelerates between 30 and 140kph.

The Arkana SUV coupe has been offered in Europe since March, with over 10,000 customers to date. There is no word yet on whether it will be arriving on Malaysian shores. 

Words: Arif Sharif