The Renault Arkana 1.6 (114 hp) CVT X-Tronic represents a unique offering within the Arkana model range, produced from July 2019 to March 2022. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range trim, this variant aimed to provide a balance of affordability, fuel efficiency, and modern styling within Renault’s expanding crossover lineup. The Arkana itself was a significant model for Renault, representing a foray into the coupe-SUV segment, particularly aimed at markets outside of traditional European strongholds. This specific engine and transmission combination was primarily sold in markets where demand favored automatic transmissions and lower engine displacements.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Arkana |
| Generation | Arkana |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (114 Hp) CVT X-Tronic |
| Start of production | July, 2019 |
| End of production | March, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 160 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 172 km/h (106.88 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp, 83.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 kg/Nm, 113.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 114 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 156 Nm @ 4000 rpm (115.06 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | H4M |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.6 mm (3.29 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1370-1505 kg (3020.33 – 3317.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1926 kg (4246.1 lbs.) |
| Max load | 421-556 kg (928.15 – 1225.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 508 l (17.94 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1333 l (47.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 690 kg (1521.19 lbs.) |
| Length | 4545 mm (178.94 in.) |
| Width | 1843 mm (72.56 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1864 mm (73.39 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Height | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2721 mm (107.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1591 mm (62.64 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 208 mm (8.19 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT X-Tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 280 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Renault Arkana 1.6 CVT X-Tronic utilizes the H4M engine, a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a mainstay in Renault’s portfolio, known for its relatively simple design and focus on fuel efficiency. It employs multi-point fuel injection and a conventional valve train configuration. The engine produces 114 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 156 Nm (115 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine is the X-Tronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), a belt-driven automatic transmission designed to provide smooth, stepless gear changes. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, a CVT uses a system of pulleys and a belt to provide an infinite number of gear ratios within its operating range, optimizing engine speed for efficiency or power.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine and CVT combination in the Arkana delivers a comfortable, but not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 14.4 seconds. The CVT transmission prioritizes fuel economy, keeping engine speeds low during cruising. However, this can result in a somewhat “rubber band” feel during acceleration, where engine revs climb without a corresponding immediate increase in speed. Compared to higher-output versions of the Arkana, such as those equipped with more powerful turbocharged engines, the 1.6L CVT feels noticeably slower. The CVT’s programming also lacks the responsiveness of a traditional automatic or a dual-clutch transmission. The focus is clearly on smooth operation and maximizing fuel efficiency rather than providing a dynamic driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Arkana 1.6 CVT X-Tronic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and basic safety features like ABS and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if not particularly luxurious, design. Optional extras often included features like a rearview camera, parking sensors, upgraded infotainment systems with navigation, and climate control. The X-Tronic trim level generally sat in the middle of the Arkana range, offering a step up in convenience and features compared to the base models, but lacking the premium appointments found in higher-spec trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Arkana 1.6 CVT utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, well-suited for everyday driving. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. While adequate for normal use, the rear drum brakes are a cost-saving measure and don’t offer the same stopping power as disc brakes. The Arkana’s chassis is tuned for comfort rather than outright handling performance. Stabilizer bars are present to reduce body roll, but the overall driving experience is geared towards ease of use and passenger comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Arkana 1.6 CVT X-Tronic was generally well-received as an affordable and stylish crossover option. Critics praised its distinctive coupe-SUV styling and comfortable ride. However, the engine and transmission combination were often criticized for their lack of performance and the “rubber band” feel of the CVT. Compared to other trims in the Arkana lineup, the 1.6L CVT offered the best fuel economy but the slowest acceleration. It appealed to buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride over sporty performance. Its fuel economy of around 34.1 US mpg combined was competitive within its segment.
Legacy
The Renault Arkana 1.6 CVT X-Tronic, while not a performance standout, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The H4M engine is known for its durability, and the X-Tronic CVT, while sometimes criticized for its driving characteristics, has generally held up well over time. On the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and stylish crossover. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good. However, potential buyers should be aware of the CVT’s potential for needing fluid changes at the recommended intervals to ensure long-term reliability.
