Renault Arkana (2021): first test, data, prices

Of the Arkana democratizes body fashion and stimulus issues: the maximum conceivable vehicle height of a “real” coupé? The minimum justifiable space in the trunk of an SUV? And whether the taste of a front passenger should count more than the space required by a rear passenger? All topics are as old as the vehicle category: the decision in favor of an SUV coupé will remain a matter of taste. Renault’s merit (or sacrilege) is, however, that it can now arise in the price range below 30,000 euros.

Because in the segment of compact high-legged vehicles with a gently sloping rear, not much is currently possible below the Audi Q3 Sportback and Cupra Formentor. Judging by the price as well as the sharpness. And to be honest: The cozy design of this Renault is appreciated. Pretty soon, regardless of the price and despite weaknesses in detail. First test in Renault’s SUV between Kadjar and Koleos.

The Renault Arkana (2021) at a glance:

• 4.57 meter long SUV coupé
• Brand-internal between Kadjar and Koleos
• Petrol engines with 140 and 160 hp
• A hybrid drive with 145 hp
• Prices 27,890 euros

Renault Arkana (2021): platform and square

Admittedly, our classification above Renault’s regular compact SUV only works in full when looking at the measuring tape. Those who orientate themselves on the platform will find the goods for longer models in the shorter Kadjar: The Arkana is based on the CMF-B substructure that Renault otherwise uses for the entry-level SUV Captur and the small car Clio. You don’t notice this in the space in the Kadjar. The legroom on the back seat fits, in the head area the deck chair position solves the problem of the sloping roof line: Renault tilts the backrest in row two relatively far back, offering no adjustment.

Beyond the large tailgate, the Arkana offers a total of 513 liters of storage space and two smaller compartments. With the rear backrests folded down, the volume increases to 1,296 liters. That is less than with the Kadjar, but still enough for a week’s shopping.

Two petrol engines and a full hybrid in the Renault Arkana

In the long term, the Arkana comes with up to 160 PS from 1.3 liters displacement, in the medium term with a full hybrid drive consisting of 1.6 liter naturally aspirated gasoline (94 PS) and 49 PS (36 KW) electric unit. Together they make 143 hp.

We are testing the entry-level engine with 140 hp from 1.3 liters of displacement. It is potentially the most efficient form of a widespread unit: In the Arkana, Renault supplements the four-cylinder turbo gasoline engine with a belt starter generator with a 12-volt electrical system. The mild hybrid line sails without a combustion engine. In other words: If the pilot releases the gas, the crankshaft rests. Only when the right foot becomes heavier does the electrical component start the petrol engine again. According to the data sheet, the Arkana consumes 5.3 liters; in real terms, values ​​below the 7-liter mark are always possible. Admittedly, the first test with occasional sprints in between is moderately suitable for detailed analyzes.

It feels like the 260 Newton-meter-strong unit delivers satisfactory propulsion from around 2,000 tours, and full power is available from 4,500 to 6,000 tours. So a wonderfully wide usable speed range, but Renault’s seven-speed automatic doesn’t trust the downsizing unit enough. When the load is higher, it shifts down with veritable panic, but with minimal dragging. On the other hand, when the accelerator pedal is set gently, things run superbly and largely without jolts.

Renault Arkana: chassis, steering

In general, the Arkana fits better with the comfortable approach. Its chassis copes well with minor bumps, while the shock absorbers filter the struts to an acceptable degree. Instead, there are a lot of nodding movements of the body in more soulful moments on the country road. The driving mode switch does not find an answer to this, because Renault does not have an adaptive chassis for the Arkana in its range.

This means that in the driving profile menu of the stationary infotainment screen, in addition to the engine’s response, only the steering’s operation can be influenced. We always experience the design in a sufficiently direct manner, binding hand torque comes in the sport position at the latest. That fits, because the sharp trim can be combined with a gentle or ecological design of the unit.

Equipment and base price of the Renault Arkana

Wildness in moderation, that’s what our test car is all about: The sporty RS-Line brings (among other things) sporty stalls with wide cheeks, decorative stitching and RS logos into the interior, but does not affect the compatible chassis set-up. This is very pleasant in everyday life, but not as often on the market as you might think.

As the RS, the Arkana exceeds the 30,000 euro mark and has a base price of 32,600 euros. The more cautiously equipped basic version Arkana “Zen” starts at 27,850 euros. For the money, there is a car that is a comfortable and reasonably viable option. An inexpensive model in a segment that sometimes appears decadent.

Renault Arkana (2021): technical specifications