The Renault Arkana 1.6 E-TECH Hybrid Multimode, produced from March 2021 to July 2023, represents Renault’s entry into the increasingly popular coupe-SUV segment. Specifically designed for the European market, the Arkana aimed to blend the practicality of an SUV with the sleek styling of a coupe. This particular variant, powered by a 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain delivering a combined 143 horsepower, occupied a mid-range position within the Arkana lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and performance. It was positioned above the base gasoline models and below potential future, higher-powered hybrid options. The Arkana itself is built upon the Alliance CMF-C platform, shared with other Renault and Nissan models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Arkana |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (143 Hp) E-TECH Hybrid Multimode |
| Start of production | March, 2021 |
| End of production | July, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 111 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 6d Full |
| 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 | 1.2 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 230 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Electric motor power | 49 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 205 Nm (151.2 lb.-ft.) |
| System power | 143 Hp |
| Power | 94 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 3600 rpm (109.16 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| 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 | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Arkana 1.6 E-TECH Hybrid is Renault’s hybrid powertrain, centered around the H4M 632 1.6-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 94 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 148 Nm (109.16 lb-ft) of torque at 3600 rpm. It’s paired with two electric motors – a 49 hp electric motor integrated with the ‘multi-mode’ automatic transmission, and a high-voltage starter-generator. The system utilizes a 1.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The ‘multi-mode’ transmission isn’t a traditional automatic; it’s a complex unit that blends the functions of a conventional automatic with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), allowing for seamless transitions between electric, hybrid, and gasoline power. The fuel injection system is a multi-port manifold injection, a relatively conventional setup for this engine class. The engine’s design prioritizes efficiency over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 143 hp combined output of the Arkana 1.6 E-TECH Hybrid Multimode delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 10.8 seconds. The powertrain is tuned for smooth operation and fuel economy rather than sporty driving. The electric motor provides instant torque at low speeds, contributing to brisk acceleration in urban environments. However, at higher speeds, the engine takes over, and the CVT-like behavior of the transmission can sometimes feel less responsive than a traditional automatic. The gear ratios are optimized for efficiency, meaning the engine often operates at lower RPMs during cruising. Compared to the gasoline-only Arkana variants, the hybrid offers improved fuel economy and a quieter driving experience, but sacrifices some outright acceleration. It’s noticeably slower than higher-powered versions that may have been offered in other markets.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Arkana 1.6 E-TECH Hybrid Multimode typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These generally included automatic climate control, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Higher trim levels added features like a larger touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster, and a premium sound system. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a hands-free parking assist system.
Chassis & Braking
The Arkana’s chassis utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring setup at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, prioritizing smoothness over sharp handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs measuring 296×26 mm, while the rear brakes are solid discs measuring 260×8 mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards everyday usability, and the Arkana doesn’t offer the same level of dynamic engagement as some of its more performance-oriented competitors. Stabilizer bars are present, but are relatively modest in size, reflecting the car’s focus on comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Arkana 1.6 E-TECH Hybrid Multimode was generally well-received by critics for its stylish design, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted the somewhat uninspiring driving experience and the occasionally hesitant response of the hybrid powertrain. Compared to other hybrid SUVs in its class, the Arkana offered a competitive fuel economy figure of 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg). Its reliability record has been generally positive, with few widespread issues reported. The hybrid system, while complex, has proven to be relatively durable. Compared to the standard gasoline Arkana models, the hybrid variant commanded a price premium, but offered significant fuel savings over the long term.
Legacy
The Renault Arkana 1.6 E-TECH Hybrid Multimode represents an important step in Renault’s electrification strategy. It demonstrated the brand’s ability to deliver a stylish and fuel-efficient hybrid SUV to the European market. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, particularly those with lower mileage and a full service history. The powertrain, while not known for blistering performance, is generally considered reliable, and parts availability is good. The Arkana helped to establish Renault as a key player in the growing hybrid vehicle segment, paving the way for future electrified models.
