Renault Rafale SUV Coupe uncovered
Renault has revealed its new Rafale SUV in full. Based on the upcoming Austral, it’s a large car that gets coupe styling cues.
It’s aiming to take on the likes of Citroen’s C5 X and the Peugeot 408. Here’s what we know so far.
Renault Rafale fast facts
- Gets swoopy coupe-like styling
- Based on the Austral platform
- Plug-in hybrid offered
- Will offer an alternative to C5X and 408
- Deliveries to commence in 2024
Renault Rafale styling
First things first: the Rafale will feature SUV Coupe styling, with a silhouette not too dissimilar from what we’ve seen from Citroen and Peugeot with the C5 X and 408. But rather than just a four-door coupe, the Rafale is actually based on the Austral.
This gives it an SUV flair thanks to its higher right height and large alloy wheels. A large grille up front brings the car’s looks in line with other new Renaults, while a pair of angular headlights aren’t dissimilar to those on Peugeot’s 408.
Around the back, it’s clear this is very much an coupe-style SUV, with a swooping roofline that cuts off sharply. The model in these pics show the Rafale in Esprit Alpine trim, with the gloss black trim contrasting with the deep blue paint fantastically.
Renault Rafale interior and tech
Inside, you get the same infotainment tech that features in the Megane E-Tech. That means a large 12in portrait touchscreen and 12in digital driver display. The system is Android-based, although supports Apple CarPlay too.
Passenger space in the rear is unlikely to be as impressive as the Austral due to its lower roofline, but there should be enough space to still make this a viable left-field family car.
Renault Rafale drivetrains
Two drivetrains are available from launch, with both using a 1.2-litre petrol engine. The first is a hybrid E-Tech model that utilises two electric motors to produce a combined 200hp. It is also capable of offering fully electric drivetrain at lower speeds.
A plug-in hybrid is also offered, but it adds a further electric motor. Not only does this give the Rafale four-wheel drive, but it also ups power to 300hp. Specs are to be confirmed for both models, but we reckon the plug-in hybrid will offer 40+ miles of electric only power.
Renault Rafale release date
The Rafale will be unveiled next month, with order books likely to open in the UK later this year. We’ll bring you the best leasing plans as soon as they’re available. In the meantime, you can compare prices on Renault’s current line-up by hitting the button below.
