Renault launches new SUV "Arkana" equipped with original hybrid on May 26 Price is 4.29 million yen

Renault Japon will release the new "Arcana", a crossover model of a coupe and an SUV, on May 26th. The price is 4.29 million yen. [See another image for this article] The new Arcana adopts the modular platform "CMF-B" platform developed by the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Motors alliance. The platform is highly versatile, supports up to the C segment, and is lightweight, making it suitable for hybrid models that require high fuel efficiency. Because it has high rigidity, it brings out the supple suspension movement and handling accuracy, and realizes a dynamic drive feel like a coupe. The power train is equipped with Renault's proprietary hybrid system "E-TECH HYBRID". The E-TECH HYBRID is a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder naturally-intake engine that produces 94PS / 148Nm and two main motors, the E-motor (36kW / 205Nm) and HSG (high voltage starter & generator. 15kW / 50Nm). It is composed of a dog clutch multi-mode AT of the transmission that connects these, and achieves both smooth shifting and direct acceleration not found in conventional power trains. The Alliance engine HR16 was used for this engine, but some parts such as engine mapping, pistons, connecting rods and crankshafts have been redeveloped to match the E-TECH HYBRID. In addition, a 1.2kWh (250V) drive battery is installed, and when driving in urban areas, the electricity charged in this battery actively drives only with the motor, contributing to improved fuel efficiency. When the deceleration energy is recovered, the battery is charged. The WLTC mode fuel consumption is 22.8km / L. The exterior features an urban form that combines the functional beauty of an SUV with the elegance of a coupe. The sides, wide overhanging fenders, front and rear skid plates, and wheel arch protection emphasize the SUV's uniqueness. On the other hand, the roofline and side window lines that gracefully arc toward the rear form a flowing form, and the design has a coupe-like agility and elegance. The front is equipped with front blades inspired by F1 and equipped with air deflectors connected to the front wheel house at both ends of the front bumper. The air deflector has the effect of reducing air resistance by suppressing the turbulence of the air generated by the front wheel, and is used as an item to improve fuel efficiency. The LED headlights are equipped with a C-shaped daytime lamp that symbolizes the Renault model. The rear combination light also incorporates a C-shape, which, combined with the signature lamp that extends across the width of the tailgate, creates a unique yet tense yet stylish look. The body size is 4570 x 1820 x 1580 mm (total length x total width x total height), and the wheelbase is 2720 mm. Four body colors are available: Blanc Perle Metallic, Blue Zanzibar Metallic, Orange Valencia Metallic, and Noir Metal Metallic. The interior incorporates the RS LINE design derived from Renault Sport, carbon-like panels are used for the door trim and dashboard, and the accent of the red line is combined to create a sporty finish. Leather X suede-like combination 6-way electric front seats, leather steering wheel, and red stitching on the seat belts give it a sporty and high-quality feel. The parking brake is electrified and equipped with an auto hold function as standard equipment. The auto-hold function keeps the driver stopped even if the driver takes his foot off the brake pedal when waiting for a long traffic light at an intersection, and automatically releases the brake when the accelerator pedal is pressed. In addition, the display and operation system around the cockpit are angled in a direction that is easy for the driver to operate based on ergonomics, creating an environment where you can concentrate on driving. The 10.2 inch full digital instrument panel, which is one of the largest in the customizable category, is adopted, and the center console is equipped with a 7 inch touch screen that displays and operates various infotainment. With this 7-inch touch screen, you can select the drive mode from "My Sense", "Sport", and "Eco", and depending on the mode, you can change the response of the power train to the amount of depression of the accelerator, the assist power of the electric power steering, and so on. Arcana is equipped with a 480L rear luggage that uses a double floor system that divides the luggage space into upper and lower parts. In addition, the center console has 2L of storage, the armrest has 1.1L of storage, and the rear armrest has 1.5L of storage. It is equipped with a cup holder and has abundant storage space such as two 0.75L bottles in the door pocket. As for the advanced driving support system, the camera in the upper center of the front glass and the radar in the front bumper detect the preceding vehicle running in the same lane and control the speed of the vehicle to keep the vehicle in the center of the lane while keeping the vehicle in front. "Adaptive cruise control (with stop & go function)" that maintains a safe inter-vehicle distance, the camera at the upper center of the front glass detects the white and yellow lines on the road, and the steering wheel is operated so that it runs in the center of the driving lane. "Lane Centering Assist (Lane Centering Assistance / Intense Tech Pack)", front bumper, door mirrors on both sides, and four cameras attached to the rear gate capture the surroundings of the vehicle and give a bird's-eye view from directly above. A "360 ° camera" that synthesizes images and displays them on a 7-inch touch screen, 12 sensors mounted on the vehicle body detect the parking space, and parallel parking (both in and out) and automatic steering operation are performed. A lot of equipment such as "Easy Parking Assist" that supports garage entry in the back is given.

Car Watch, editorial department: Takashi Kobayashi