The Renault Arkana (facelift, introduced in July 2023) 1.6 E-TECH Hybrid Multimode represents Renault’s entry into the coupe-SUV segment with a focus on fuel efficiency and hybrid technology. This variant, positioned as a mid-range offering within the Arkana lineup, combines a 1.6-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor and a unique multimode automatic transmission. It builds upon the initial Arkana model, which was first introduced as a concept and later launched as a production vehicle primarily targeted at the European market, offering a distinctive style and practical features. The facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the hybrid powertrain.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Arkana |
| Generation | Arkana (facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (143 Hp) E-TECH Hybrid Multimode |
| Start of production | July, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 105 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 172 km/h (106.88 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 E |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 99.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.7 kg/Nm, 103.1 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 12 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 230 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the front seats |
| Electric motor power | 49 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 205 Nm (151.2 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| System power | 143 Hp |
| Internal combustion engine power | 94 Hp |
| Power per litre | 58.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 148 Nm (109.16 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H4M 632 |
| 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1435 kg (3163.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1961 kg (4323.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 526 kg (1159.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1263 l (44.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 760 kg (1675.51 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4568 mm (179.84 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2034 mm (80.08 in.) |
| Height | 1576 mm (62.05 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1562 mm (61.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Front overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 970 mm (38.19 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200 mm (7.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission E-TECH multi-mode |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 296×26 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 260×8 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17; 215/55 R18; 225/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Arkana 1.6 E-TECH Hybrid utilizes Renault’s fourth-generation E-TECH hybrid system. The powertrain centers around a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine (H4M 632), naturally aspirated, producing 94 horsepower. This engine operates on a Miller cycle for improved efficiency. It’s paired with a 49 horsepower electric motor integrated into the transmission. The system’s combined output is 143 horsepower. The engine employs multi-point fuel injection. The transmission is a unique ‘e-shifter’ multimode automatic, which doesn’t have a traditional gear selector. It utilizes a complex arrangement of gears and clutches to seamlessly blend power from the engine and electric motor. The 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is located under the front seats, minimizing impact on cabin space. The system allows for short periods of all-electric driving, primarily at lower speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 E-TECH Hybrid Arkana offers a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.3 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 10.8 seconds. The electric motor provides instant torque, aiding in initial acceleration and making city driving smooth. The multimode transmission operates largely automatically, with limited driver control over gear selection. Compared to higher-powered Arkana variants, such as those with gasoline engines, this hybrid feels less responsive during overtaking maneuvers. However, the electric assistance helps to mitigate some of the performance deficit. The hybrid system’s regenerative braking contributes to improved fuel efficiency, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 E-TECH Hybrid trim typically includes a generous level of standard equipment. Features commonly found on this variant include automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery is typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Higher trim levels within the E-TECH range may add features like a larger touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, and adaptive cruise control. The Arkana’s interior design is modern and functional, with a focus on user-friendliness.
Chassis & Braking
The Arkana’s chassis is based on the CMF-C platform, shared with other Renault and Nissan models. The front suspension utilizes an independent McPherson strut setup, while the rear employs a torsion beam axle. This configuration balances ride comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, providing a relatively soft ride quality. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Arkana 1.6 E-TECH Hybrid has been generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency and stylish design. It competes with other hybrid and conventional SUVs in the compact segment, such as the Toyota C-HR and Peugeot 3008. Compared to the gasoline-only Arkana variants, the hybrid offers significantly better fuel economy, although it comes at a higher price point. Reliability has been generally good, with few reported issues specific to the hybrid powertrain. Some reviewers have noted the slightly subdued performance compared to more powerful engine options.
Legacy
The Renault Arkana 1.6 E-TECH Hybrid represents a significant step forward in Renault’s electrification strategy. The E-TECH hybrid system has proven to be a reliable and efficient powertrain, and the Arkana has become a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish and fuel-conscious SUV. On the used car market, these models are holding their value reasonably well, due to their fuel efficiency and the growing demand for hybrid vehicles. Long-term reliability appears to be solid, with the hybrid components demonstrating good durability. The Arkana’s distinctive coupe-SUV styling continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
