SUV coupes were traditionally exclusive to high-end markets, yet Renault broke the mold by popularising the fusion of body styles with the compact Arkana, which debuted just over three years ago. Looking ahead to mid-2023, the renowned automaker is unveiling a bigger variant inspired by a racing plane from 1934. Allow us to introduce the Rafale, a sporty utility vehicle in the D-segment, representing Renault’s inaugural embrace of its fresh design approach.
The vehicle features a modern front grille design and updated LED lights, similar to the refreshed 2024 Clio model. Like the compact car, it comes in a range-topping Esprit Alpine variant that is also offered for the Espace. The Espace lends its 2.74-meter (107.8-inch) wheelbase to this model. While its sloping roofline limits its practicality compared to traditional SUV designs, it still provides a spacious cargo capacity of 530 litres (18.7 cubic feet) with the rear seats intact.
Exterior
The Espace’s third row is omitted in the Rafale model, as Renault aims to offer it with only five seats. Despite its coupe-like roofline, the car minimises rear headroom reduction. The latest addition to Renault’s expanding range measures 4.71 metres (185.4 inches) in length and 1.86 metres (73.2 inches) in width. Notably, it features a spacious panoramic glass roof measuring 1,470 x 1,117 mm (57.8 x 43.9 in), which can transition from fully opaque to fully transparent. Moreover, the glass roof has two extra options: the front section can be opaque while the rear section is transparent, or vice versa.
The Rafale possesses a striking presence in person, surpassing the Espace with its broader axles, measuring an additional 4 cm, and robust 245-mm tyres. A notable advancement is Renault’s enhanced rear-wheel steering system, which enhances traction and enables higher cornering speeds even on uneven terrains. To add to its allure, the Rafale is available in exclusive Satin Pearl White and Alpine Blue paint options, with the latter presenting a richer and more vibrant shade of blue compared to the A110.
Interior
Within the vehicle, you’ll find a digital instrument cluster measuring 12.3 inches, accompanied by a vertically oriented 12-inch touchscreen. This design element is reminiscent of Renault’s recent models, such as the Megane E-Tech Electric. The infotainment system operates on Android Automotive 12 and offers seamless connectivity with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, interested buyers can opt for a 9.3-inch head-up display that projects essential information onto the windshield of the coupe SUV.
Powertrain
The vehicle is equipped with a hybrid system that combines a turbocharged three-cylinder engine and two electric motors. The gasoline engine, with a displacement of 1.2 litres, generates 130 horsepower (96 kilowatts) and 205 Newton-meters (151 pound-feet) of torque. The primary electric motor provides 70 horsepower (50 kilowatts) and 205 Newton-meters (151 pound-feet) of torque. Additionally, there is a second electric motor, acting as a starter generator, producing 34 horsepower (25 kilowatts) and 50 Newton-metres (37 pound-feet) of torque. Renault claims a combined power output of 200 horsepower, matching that of the Espace model.
In the future, the Rafale is expected to undergo enhancements with the introduction of a fresh plug-in hybrid system. This system will incorporate a 300 hp electric motor, providing power to all wheels. Additionally, the vehicle will benefit from the inclusion of rear-wheel steering, along with customised tuning of the chassis.
Source and Images: Motor1