Renault ARKANA E-Tech Hybrid Review - Is It Really Worth It?

The Renault Arkana injects a dose of style and flair into the family SUV segment, offering a sleeker, more coupe-like silhouette than traditional boxy crossovers. However, this sporty styling comes at the cost of practicality, and the Arkana falls short in key areas compared to its more utilitarian competitors.

Exterior styling is undoubtedly the Arkana's strong suit, with a swooping roofline and distinctive Renault design cues like the C-shaped LED daytime running lights. It's a head-turner, no doubt, providing a more stylish and youthful alternative to the likes of the Skoda Karoq or Nissan Qashqai. The Arkana's appearance may even draw comparisons to pricier German offerings like the BMW X4. But this aesthetic flair comes at a price.

Inside, the cabin feels solidly built, with plenty of soft-touch materials and a generally posh ambiance. However, the design lacks the same visual excitement as the exterior, feeling a bit conservative and uninspired compared to rivals like the Peugeot 408. Space is also at a premium, with limited rear headroom and legroom due to the sloping roofline. The 480-liter boot is decent but falls short of more practical SUVs.

On the road, the Arkana's driving dynamics are a mixed bag. The firm suspension provides a relatively poised and stable feel, but this comes at the expense of ride comfort, which can feel harsh over rough surfaces. The steering is accurate enough, but the Arkana doesn't encourage spirited driving in the way its sporty styling suggests. Performance from the 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain is adequate, but the system can be noisy under acceleration.

Where the Arkana does excel is in its generous levels of standard equipment. Even entry-level models come well-equipped, with features like wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, rear parking sensors, and autonomous emergency braking. Stepping up to higher trim levels adds niceties like a larger 9.3-inch infotainment screen, keyless entry, and a range of driver assistance technologies.

Ultimately, the Renault Arkana is a car of compromises. It delivers on style and value, but falls short in terms of practicality and driving engagement when compared to more conventional SUV offerings. For buyers prioritizing a distinctive, coupe-inspired look over ultimate functionality, the Arkana could be an appealing choice. But those seeking a more well-rounded family hauler may be better served by alternatives like the Skoda Karoq or Peugeot 3008.

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