Exterior
Taking inspiration from aeronautics, the Renault Rafale’s design reflects the streamlined, sleek shape of the fuselage, displaying a dynamic and sporty SUV coupé.
Similar to the Renault Megane, the Renault Rafale displays a new lighting signature that has pushed the LED tail lights to the outer corners of the car, to give it a wider stance, as well as a brand new emblematic grille.
One of the most impressive features of the Renault Rafale is the solarbay panoramic sunroof. Comfort is tailored to the owner with the vast solarbay panoramic sunroof, that darkens and lightens on demand. Through choosing from the four opacity modes available, the amount of light produced is decided upon by the driver - making for an incredibly personalised driving experience.
Interior and infotainment
The Renault Rafale displays a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, and a 12.0-inch portrait infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto - with the screens being wrapped around the driver, similar to the Renault Megane.
The Renault Rafale also boasts up to 32 advanced driver-assist systems - making the driver’s journey as safe as possible. Active driver assist combines the intelligent adaptive cruise control with the Stop & Go function and lane centring technology.
The speed of the Renault Rafale is regulated according to road conditions, maintains a safe distance from vehicles ahead, and ensures that the vehicle remains centred within its lane. When traffic slows down, the system also allows the vehicle to stop and start automatically - saving power.
Engine and driving
From launch, the Renault Rafale will be available with two different engines - one self-charging hybrid called the E-Tech, and a plug in hybrid. Both engines use a 1.2 litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine with 130hp.
The self charging hybrid uses an electric motor on the front axle and a smaller one in the gearbox in order to boost efficiency, giving a combined 200hp. The E-tech has the ability to drive on pure electric power at low speeds in traffic.
The plug-in hybrid version adds another motor which powers the rear wheels, giving it all-wheel-drive, and has a combined 300hp. Although Renault are yet to confirm the exact details of electric range, being a plug-in hybrid, it has the ability to drive using just the motors at higher speeds and for longer periods of time.
In addition, at low speed, 4Control Advanced directs the rear wheels up to five degrees in the opposite direction of the front wheel , for a turning circle that is comparable to a city car. Above 31mph, the rear wheels also have the ability to pivot up to 1 degree to improve the drivers stability.
The Renault Rafale is expected to go on sale early next year, with deliveries starting in the Spring of 2024.
In the meantime, why not check out our amazing range of Renault vehicles.
