The Renault Arkana Edition One 1.3 TCe (150 hp) AWD CVT X-Tronic represents a unique offering within the Arkana model range, launched in May 2019 and continuing through March 2022. Positioned as a premium trim level, the Edition One combined a relatively powerful engine with all-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Arkana itself was a significant vehicle for Renault, representing a foray into the burgeoning coupe-SUV segment, particularly aimed at European markets where styling and practicality were highly valued. This variant aimed to provide a blend of performance, efficiency, and sophisticated features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Arkana |
| Generation | Arkana |
| Type (Engine) | Edition one 1.3 TCe (150 Hp) AWD CVT X-Tronic |
| Start of production | May, 2019 |
| End of production | March, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 162 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191 km/h (118.68 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 108.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 181.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 112.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1700 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1700 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | H5H Turbo |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.2 mm (2.84 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1378-1571 kg (3037.97 – 3463.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1954 kg (4307.83 lbs.) |
| Max load | 383-576 kg (844.37 – 1269.86 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 409 l (14.44 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1234 l (43.58 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4545 mm (178.94 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2047 mm (80.59 in.) |
| Height | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2721 mm (107.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1562 mm (61.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1576 mm (62.05 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 205 mm (8.07 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| 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 heart of the Arkana Edition One 1.3 TCe is Renault’s H5H turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. This 1332cc unit utilizes direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to produce 150 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque from as low as 1700 rpm. This engine is part of Renault’s broader family of modular engines, designed for efficiency and scalability. The engine’s design prioritizes low-end torque, making it suitable for everyday driving. The X-Tronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is a key component, offering smooth, stepless gear changes. This CVT is paired with Renault’s all-wheel-drive system, which intelligently distributes torque between the front and rear axles for enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The AWD system operates primarily as front-wheel drive, engaging the rear axle when slip is detected.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 TCe engine with the CVT transmission delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provides adequate acceleration, achieving 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 10.5 seconds. The CVT, while smooth, can sometimes feel less responsive than a traditional automatic transmission, particularly during hard acceleration. The all-wheel-drive system enhances grip and stability, especially on slippery surfaces. Compared to lower-powered Arkana variants, the 1.3 TCe offers noticeably more punch, making it more suitable for longer journeys and carrying a full load. Compared to a manual transmission, the CVT prioritizes fuel efficiency and ease of use over driver engagement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Edition One trim was the top-of-the-line offering when the Arkana was first launched. Standard features included alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, automatic climate control, parking sensors, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery typically consisted of premium cloth or leather-trimmed seats. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, and adaptive cruise control. The Edition One was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a stylish and well-equipped SUV.
Chassis & Braking
The Arkana utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, prioritizing ride quality over outright sportiness. The all-wheel-drive system adds to the vehicle’s stability and handling capabilities.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Arkana, and particularly the Edition One 1.3 TCe AWD, was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its striking design, comfortable ride, and well-equipped interior. Fuel economy was considered respectable for a vehicle of its size and type, achieving around 32.7 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to other Arkana trims, the 1.3 TCe AWD offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Renault Arkana successfully established Renault in the coupe-SUV segment. The 1.3 TCe engine, while not the most powerful option available, proved to be a reliable and efficient powerplant. In the used car market, the Edition One 1.3 TCe AWD models tend to command a premium due to their higher specification and all-wheel-drive capability. The Arkana’s distinctive styling and practical interior continue to make it an appealing option for buyers seeking a stylish and versatile SUV.
