Check out Europe’s first coupe-crossover, the Renault Arkana

KUALA LUMPUR: The Renault Arkana was first showcased by the automaker as a show car in August 2018. After that, it went on sale in Russia in May 2019, and now we hear that it’ll be making its way to the European auto market starting Q1 of 2021.

François Laurent, Arkana Program Director, said, “Arkana is another example of how modernity and innovation are rooted in Renault’s DNA. It is a hybrid on all levels and perfectly blends the codes of the coupe and the SUV, combining responsiveness with versatility. It brings a fresh impetus to the mainstream compact SUV segment, which is core to the European market.”

Now, the catch here is that while it’ll be Europe’s first coupe-crossover, it’ll differ from the Russian-spec model. For instance, the Euro-spec Arkana will be blessed with the new RS-Line package to give the car a more refined exterior. Further, a new colour package will be offered to the customers, giving them a more comprehensive personalisation range.

As for the interior, the Euro-spec Arkana will be classier than its Russian counterpart. It will benefit from features like a vertical tablet-style infotainment system and a fully digital instrument cluster available in three versions - 4.2-, 7-, and 10.2-inch, depending on the variant. Another highlight of the new Arkana is its ample boot space of 513-litre (featuring in non-hybrid models).

The difference doesn’t end here; on the one hand, where the Russian-spec Arkana is powered by a turbocharged 1.3-litre petrol engine, the Euro-spec model benefits from the brand’s latest hybridized engines. The Euro-spec Arkana engine options include - a 1.3 TCe unit making 140 hp and 160 hp in mild-hybrid versions; it will be paired to a dual-clutch automatic transmission. There’s also an E-Tech Hybrid 140 mill that’s seen powering the Megane, Clio, and Captur. As per Renault, the power unit has undergone over 150 patents and is based on the Group’s experience in F1 and EVs.

More information on the Euro-spec Arkana is expected to unfold soon, so stay tuned with Zigwheels Malaysia for the latest bit.

Also Read: 2021 Renault Megane RS facelift is likely to arrive next year