Renault has revealed a mid-life update for its Arkana SUV in Europe, featuring an entirely electrified powertrain range and some minor cosmetic updates.
The brand has revised the line-up and will only offer three variants and three powertrain options, at least in Europe. We’ve contacted Renault Australia to confirm local launch timing and specification details.
Renault has given the Arkana’s grille a minor update. Each trim line now offers different colour accents.
All models, however, feature a gloss black band stretching across the grille creating a link between the brand’s dark chrome logo and the headlights.
The new base Evolution now has black chrome body accents, while the mid-range Techno features Satin Chrome accents, and the flagship Esprit Alpine models boasts dark chrome accents.
The front diffuser and air intakes offer a similar diamond pattern to bring the design together.
Renault has transferred its “aerodynamic blade” from previous R.S. Line and E-Tech models onto the Techno and Esprit Alpine. This uses a body-colour finish on the Techno and Satin Grey finish on the Esprit Alpine.
Renault has made small changes to the headlights adding an “ever-so-slightly” smoked effect to “add a modern touch”.
It’s worth noting the mid-range Techno keeps the same 18-inch wheels from the outgoing R.S. Line model.
Customers who opt for the flagship model will receive 19-inch alloy wheels, grey badging, and a black wing on the tailgate to enhance aerodynamics.
Renault has introduced a Midnight Blue exterior paint option for all trim levels.
Inside, Esprit Alpine variants feature unique trim, which includes 10 per cent bio-sourced materials and faux suede. The seats now include blue stitching and an Alpine logo, and the seat belts include two blue stripes.
The doors inserts and steering wheel feature red, white and blue stitching, while the dashboard and doors are accented with a wood-like pattern.
The whole Arkana range now comes standard with a Renault Easy Link infotainment system featuring satellite navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Renault says it’s made changes to the rear wheels on all Arkana models to improve stability at high speeds.
The 2024 Arkana range opens with a 1.3-litre four-cylinder mild-hybrid petrol powertrain mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and a 0.13kWh battery.
The Mild Hybrid 140 produces 103kW of power and 260Nm of torque, with a claimed 0-100km/h time of 9.8 seconds, while the Mild Hybrid 160 has 116kW and 270Nm with a 9.1-second 0-100km/h time.
The flagship E-Tech Hybrid 145 powertrain features a 1.6-litre four cylinder engine with 69kW of power and 148Nm of torque, mated to what Renault calls a smart multi-mode clutch-less dog box, as well as a 1.2kWh battery pack, and two electric motors that produce 36kW of power and 205Nm of torque.
Renault doesn’t quote total system outputs, however it claims a 0-100km/h time of 10.8 seconds.
With the E-Tech powertrain, Renault claims drivers can take advantage of pure-electric power for up to 80 per cent of city driving.
An E-Save feature also allows owners to reserve at least 40 per cent of the vehicle’s battery charge to use at a later stage.
The Australian-market Arkana is currently available exclusively with a 1.3-litre turbo four-cylinder engine producing 115kW and 262Nm. The company has yet to introduce any hybrid models locally.
The Arkana is produced in Korea, where it’s sold as the XM3.
