The era of Coupe-SUVs was once limited to the realm of luxury vehicles, but Renault disrupted the norm by introducing the compact Arkana, which brought this unique body style to the mainstream market a little over three years ago. Now, in the middle of 2023, the renowned automaker adorned with the diamond logo is taking it a step further with the launch of a larger model, inspired by a legendary racing plane from 1934. Welcome to the stage, the Renault Rafale—a remarkable D-segment sport utility vehicle that fully embraces Renault’s new design language.

Drawing inspiration from the recently facelifted 2024 Clio, the Rafale proudly showcases Renault’s fresh front grille design and new matrix LED light signature. Similar to its supermini counterpart, the Rafale is available in a range-topping Esprit Alpine trim level, which can also be found in the Espace. In fact, it inherits the Espace’s 2.74-meter (107.8-inch) wheelbase. While its sloping roofline may limit its practicality compared to conventionally styled SUVs, the Rafale still manages to offer an ample cargo capacity of 530 liters (18.7 cubic feet) with the rear seats in place.

Renault has made the decision to forgo the third row of seats in the Rafale, intending to sell it exclusively as a five-seater. Despite the coupe-like roofline, this change does not result in significant rear headroom loss. The Rafale’s elongated dimensions measure 4.71 meters (185.4 inches) in length and 1.86 meters (73.2 inches) in width. Additionally, it features a massive 1,470 x 1,117 mm (57.8 x 43.9 in) panoramic glass roof, which can transition from fully opaque to fully transparent. Notably, the roof can be adjusted to have different settings, allowing either the front or rear section to be opaque while the other remains transparent.

With wider axles (+4 cm) and chunky 245-mm tires, the Rafale boasts a more commanding presence than the Espace. Furthermore, Renault has introduced an enhanced version of its rear-wheel steering system, which improves grip and cornering speed, particularly on uneven surfaces. For a touch of exclusivity, the Rafale offers unique paint colors, namely Satin Pearl White and Alpine Blue, with the latter showcasing a more intense blue shade compared to the A110.

Step inside, and you’ll find a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 12-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen—a feature reminiscent of Renault’s latest models, including the Megane E-Tech Electric, where it first made its appearance. Powered by Android Automotive 12, the infotainment system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, customers can opt for a 9.3-inch head-up display, projecting relevant information onto the windshield for convenience and safety.

Under the hood, the Rafale harnesses a hybrid powertrain that combines a turbocharged three-cylinder engine with a duo of electric motors. The 1.2-liter gasoline unit generates 130 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque, while the primary electric motor delivers 70 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Furthermore, a secondary electric motor functions as a starter generator, producing 34 horsepower and 37 pound-feet of torque. Collectively, Renault boasts a total output of 200 horsepower for the Rafale, mirroring the powertrain found in the Espace.

In the future, the Rafale will receive a newly developed plug-in hybrid system, incorporating a rear-mounted electric motor to enable all-wheel drive. This upgraded variant will also benefit from the advanced rear-wheel steering technology and feature model-specific chassis tuning, enhancing its overall performance and driving dynamics.

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