Renault Austral E-Tech Hybrid Review
Read Caroline's Renault Austral E-Tech Hybrid review for everything you need to know about buying Renault's new compact SUV in Ireland.
The Austral is Renault's newest SUV. It replaces the Kadjar and slots into the range just above the Renault Arkana, with pricing starting from about €45,000, rising all the way to €52,000.
It's classed as a 'C-segment' SUV so goes up against familiar rivals like the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage and Peugeot 3008.
The Austral goes on sale in Ireland exclusively as a hybrid - there's no pure petrol or diesel options in the range. But it's a powerful hybrid with 200hp that offers some excellent efficiency in real world driving.
What's so special about the Renault Austral?
We've had to wait a while for the Austral to arrive. Alongside the newly launched Megane E-Tech and the popular Arkana SUV coupé, the new Austral signals something of a renaissance at Renault.
With these three models, Renault hopes to gain more ground in the C-segment, Europe's most popular segment for new car buyers.
While the Megane E-Tech is electric only and the Arkana offers some petrol and hybrid options, the new Austral is a flagship of sorts, boasting Renault's newest hybrid technology.
There's also bold new styling that complements the Megane, including Renault's new logo and brand identity. The Austral also sees the introduction of new 'Esprit Alpine' models, with design inspiration from Renault's Alpine brand of sports cars.
19-inch alloys come as standard on the entry Techno model, while the Techno Esprit Alpine and Iconic Esprit Alpine both get 20-inch alloy wheel, as well as an exclusive matte grey paint option.
While the Austral is a much more expensive car to buy new than the Kadjar it replaces, it is absolutely loaded with equipment and technology so marks a step up for the brand among family SUVs. Does it have what it takes to take on the mighty Qashqai, Sportage and Tucson? It certainly looks the part.
Inside the Renault Austral
The Austral's interior is another highlight. The level of standard equipment is truly astounding. All versions come with a head-up display, full digital driver display and portrait-style touchscreen.
The digital tech is very stylish and glossy. Like the Renault Megane E-Tech, the touchscreen uses a Google operating system with useful integration of Google Maps, Google Assistant and much more. But Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can be used if you prefer.
Esprit Alpine models dial up the style with unique Alcantara and fabric seats with blue stitching and headrests embossed with the Alpine logo in blue. There is also more Alcantara fabric in the dashboard, with elegant ambient lighting. The new Renault steering wheel features French Tricolour stitching and more Alcantara.
Other standard features include heated steering wheel and heated front seats with massage function and power adjustment.
There's lots of legroom and headroom in the back for a compact family SUV, as well as amenities like an armrest, cupholders, air vents and USB-C ports.
The rear bench split folds 60:40 and can be moved forward to create more boot space. In their normal setting, the boot offers 430 litres. That's a bit off the best in class but with the rear bench moved forward, up to 555 litres is possible. A powered tailgate also comes as standard.
Iconic Esprit Alpine models also come with a full panoramic glass roof with blind, 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, 360-degree camera and wireless phone charging.
Driving the Austral E-Tech Hybrid
In Ireland, the Renault Austral will be available exclusively as a petrol electric hybrid that does not require charging to get the best efficiency from it.
It's got 200hp so it's competitive in power terms to other hybrid SUVs in this class like the Qashqai E-Power and the Tucson Hybrid. It differs to the Arkana E-Tech Hybrid with a 1.2-litre three petrol engine at its heart, two electric motors, a small capacity battery and an improved automatic gearbox.
The result is a hybrid that is even smoother and more refined. Most of the time, it switches between EV drive and hybrid drive with very little fuss. Occasionally you can hear the engine working, but it never thrashes around.
The power delivery is strong and responsive, with a number of different driving modes to enhance the drive including Comfort, Eco, Sport and Perso to fine tune things like the engine responsiveness, steering effort and the agility of the chassis.
It proves to be very efficient, averaging about 5.3 litres per 100 kilometres during my time with the car across a variety of road types - from motorway to town and rural roads.
Top of the range Iconic Esprit Alpine models come with four wheel steering as standard. This allows the rear wheels to turn a little, which boosts the agility and manoeuvrability of the Austral in low speed town driving and parking. Out on the open road, it creates more stability and makes the Austral nice and secure to drive quickly.
Versions with four wheel steering get a more sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, while those without use a torsion beam.
The only real downside is that the Austral rides quite firmly over less than perfect road surfaces and there is audible road noise.
Did you like it?
Renault is upping its game with its latest cars and SUVs to go on sale. There has been a notable step up in price but also quality, while the digital tech on board is truly impressive for a compact SUV.
On the road, the Austral offers a powerful and refined driving experience, while also delivering on efficiency. It's not completely perfect though on Irish roads and some rival SUVs offer more comfort over less than smooth tarmac.
But on a whole the Austral is a welcome return for Renault to the family SUV market with style and practicality in abundance. It can take on the best in class with a touch of class.
Model tested: Renault Austral E-Tech Hybrid Iconic Esprit Alpine
Price: €52,295
Engine: 1.2-litre petrol-electric hybrid
Power: 200hp
Torque: 410Nm
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 8.4 seconds
Motor Tax: €180 per year
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Renault Megane E-Tech Review
Read Caroline's Renault Megane E-Tech review for everything you need to know about buying Renault's new electric car in Ireland.
The Renault Megane is one of the perennials of the Renault range and now it's gone electric! That's right, there's no more diesel or petrol Meganes on sale. The future is now this - the all-electric Megane E-Tech.
Available with two different battery sizes and a range of up to 450 kilometres (WLTP), the new Megane E-Tech will take on other mid-size electric hatchbacks like the MG4, the Kia Niro EV, the Volkswagen ID.3 and the Cupra Born.
But going electric means there's been a step up in price too. The new Megane E-Tech range goes on sale from €37,495 including grants.
Renault has some form when it comes to building electric cars. The Renault Zoe was one of the pioneering electric cars when it launched back in 2012 and is one of the best compact EVs of its generation.
So can the Megane E-Tech charge to the top of the pack? Let's find out!
What's so special about the Renault Megane E-Tech?
The Megane E-Tech is a beautiful piece of design. The Megane was always a bit of a looker. Renault has continued that tradition with the new E-Tech. The new design language is called 'sensual tech' and this car has great presence.
The proportions are perfect with an extended wheelbase, the wheels pushed out to the corners and short overhangs. Big wheels: 18-inch as standard but all other versions like the Techno on test get stylish 20-inch that give it the look of a concept car. There's also a slick high window line and hidden rear door handles for added grace and elegance.
The other curiosity to the Megane is that Renault has given it some crossover design cues without turning it into anything other than a stylish hatchback. So it sits a small bit higher off the ground than most of the competition and the wheel arches and sills have a bit more definition.
LED headlamps come as standard with a dramatic LED daytime running light signature. At the back the full width light bar gives a final flourish and M E G A N E spelt out across the boot lid.
The cabin is also one of Renault's best yet, a huge step forward in design, technology and quality.
Inside the Megane E-Tech
The cabin of the new Megane has been inspired "by the world of fine home furniture", according to Renault. It's a world away from the previous version of the Megane. There's a modern, lounge feel. The seats on Techno models are made from recycled materials. There's also a nice textile used on the dashboard and Alcantara panels in the doors. Altogether, it's a classy and premium feeling cabin that feels like one of the best of the segment.
Being a new generation Renault interior, there's also lots of great tech as standard including a glossy full digital instrument panel and 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Go for the mid-range Techno model and the system uses an excellent Google operating system with in-built Google services like Google Maps and Google Assistant, as well as over-the-air updates.
The entry level Megane E-Tech Equilibre includes air conditioning, heated steering wheel, heated front seats, rear view camera and lots of safety and driver assistance systems.
The Megane also has one of the biggest boots in the class at 440 litres. That's bigger than an MG4, Leaf or ID.3. It's quite deep however so there is a high load lip to lift things over. I love the neat storage compartment for the charging cables beneath the boot floor.
Built on a dedicated electric platform, the Megane E-Tech does offer adequate legroom for adults - though headroom is not as generous.
Driving the electric Megane
The Megane E-Tech is available with the choice of two batteries. The EV40 is priced from €37,495 and uses a 40kWh battery (300 kilometres WLTP). The EV60 is priced from €41,995 and uses a 60kWh battery (450 kilometres WLTP). The Megane E-Tech EV60 also has a more powerful 220hp motor compared to the EV40's 130hp.
Renault has invested a lot in making the new Megane their best electric car yet. It uses a thinner battery with soundproofing foam between the battery and the floor and thicker door linings to give premium levels of refinement. The driving position has also improved compared to the Zoe, with a more natural and sporty feel to it.
On the road the Megane E-Tech feels very natural to drive with well-weighted controls and agile steering. It's nippy to drive and offers a number of different 'Multisense' driving modes including a livelier Sport mode and an Eco mode to maximise your driving range. The Megane also stands out for offering a very serene and relaxing drive for an electric hatchback.
There are also four levels of regenerative braking that are easy to adjust from paddles behind the steering wheel.
Official consumption is rated at just 16.1kWh per 100 kilometres and I averaged about 19kWh per 100 kilometres over a week of driving.
22kW AC charging comes as standard for faster AC charging and the EV60 offers the fastest DC charging at up to 130kW.
Did you like it?
Renault has done a great job in designing the new Megane E-Tech! After the Zoe, we had to wait a long time for Renault to come up with a bigger electric model but it's been worth the wait. The new Megane E-Tech is a fantastic evolution of the Megane range and definitely worthy of the badge.
It's a car that's easy to live with and has a fair amount of kerb appeal that ticks the desirability box too - important for a new electric model. Pricing and range are mostly competitive, and the Megane's upmarket, digital cabin goes a long way to soften the blow of what is now quite an expensive car to buy.
It's practical too with a big boot and the bonus of standard 22kW AC charging.
If you’re in the market for an electric hatchback, the Megane E-Tech is definitely one to check out.
The next model from the brand to hit Irish shores will be the new Renault Austral hybrid SUV.
Model tested: Renault Megane E-Tech EV60 Techno
Price: €45,295
Battery: 60kWh
Range: 450 km (WLTP)
Power: 220hp
Top speed: 160 km/h
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 7.4 seconds
Motor Tax: €120 per year
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Renault Austral Review
The Renault Austral is the Renault brand's new mid-size SUV and is expected in Ireland in spring/summer of 2023. Along with the recently launched Renault Megane E-TECH electric hatchback and the award-winning Renault Arkana - Irish Medium SUV of the Year 2022 - the aim is to regain the brand’s foothold in the C-segment, Europe’s most popular car segment. Sold exclusively as a hybrid, the new Austral replaces the Kadjar in the Renault line-up.
Caroline travelled to Madrid with Renault Ireland to drive the new Austral ahead of its arrival in Ireland in 2023.
Styling
The new Renault Austral will be one of the best-looking SUVs on Irish roads in 2023. It sports an evolution of Renault's design language seen in the Megane E-TECH, but wrapped up in the stylish, rugged body of an SUV. It's the second Renault model to wear the brand's new logo, which is framed by a striking set of LED headlights. There's a similarly stylish light signature at the rear. A sculpted bonnet adds even more attitude, fast becoming a new signature of Renault cars and SUVs. Alloy wheel sizes vary from 17-inch to 20-inch, most of which are diamond cut. Trim levels for Ireland are yet to be confirmed but it's highly likely that the new range-topping 'Esprit Alpine' version will reach here. Inspired by the sporty roots of Renault's legendary Alpine brand of performance cars, it's available in exclusive Satin Shale Grey matte finish with special badging and numerous design upgrades inside and outside the car.
Interior
The Austral follows the lead of the new Megane E-TECH when it comes to interior design and technology - and then takes it to the next level again. It's very stylish and high-tech inside, built around the large OpenR screen that combines a 12.3-inch instrument display with a 12-inch vertical multimedia screen and uses a Google operating system. Super glossy to look at, but it also works really well. For example, Google apps like Google Assistant, Google Play Store and Google Maps are integrated into it. This technology combines perfectly with the driver display, with a number of different views available - one which turns the whole thing into a mirror image of your route on Google Maps. There's also an excellent head-up display available. Ventilation controls are accessed through the screen but there are some nice tactile buttons below to bring up the menu and adjust the temperature quickly.
We were driving top of the range Esprit Alpine models, which get lots of beautiful Alcantara trim inside and blue contrast stitching. The quality of the interior appears to be even better than what we've seen previously from the brand in the new Arkana for example, so we just have to see will this stay consistent throughout the range when the Austral arrives in Ireland next year.
Practicality
The Austral has been designed as a practical, five-seat family SUV and feels roomy inside. Rear passengers will find knee-room that is on par with the best in class at 27.4 cm. There are practical storage compartment located throughout the interior amounting to about 35 litres of interior storage. Renault has also brought back the 60:40 sliding rear bench in the Austral. That means the rear bench can be adjusted to maximise legroom for rear seat passengers or boot space, expanding capacity from 430 litres to 555 litres.
Engines
In Ireland, the Renault Austral will be available exclusively as a hybrid. The new range-topping hybrid uses a 1.2-litre, three cylinder petrol engine, 2 kWh 400V battery and 50kW electric motor, and will put out 200hp in the version that reaches Ireland. In some markets, an Austral petrol mild hybrid will also be available.
The new hybrid is a significant evolution of Renault's hybrid technology and promises better performance and refinement than before, while also reducing fuel use and CO2 emissions - 105 g of CO2/km, pending certification.
On the road
The new Renault Austral is the first Renault to use the CMF-CD platform and also debuts Renault’s third generation four-wheel steering that has been steadily improved over the past 15 years - 4Control Advanced. It won't be standard on every model, but the cars we drove at the launch in Spain all featured it. It improves the car's agility and driver engagement, with a turning circle of just 10.1 metres, rivalling a supermini. The Austral chassis comes in two versions: flexible torsion beam for two-wheel steering models and a more sophisticated multi-link rear axle with 4Control Advanced for four-wheel steering models. With the addition of a steering actuator on the multi-arm rear axle, the steering angle of the rear wheels is now 5°. Combined with the Multisense system, there are also now 13 different setting options, up from three previously!
On the road, the Austral feels immediately sophisticated and powerful. The delivery of power is smoother and stronger than in the Arkana 1.6 hybrid for example. The extra power helps, and the new hybrid offers more refinement too. The Austral weighs about 1500 kg, which certainly makes for a nice experience behind the wheel. Granted all versions we tested featured four wheel steering, but the Austral offered a precise and fun driving experience around the mountain roads above Madrid. It grips willingly, while the four wheel steering and assorted driving modes with varying levels of assistance add to a sense of connection between the car and driver that is rare in the segment. It also rides very well on large wheels, but there is wind whistle around the wing mirrors on the motorway at high speeds. And we can't give a verdict on what front wheel drive models will be like without four wheel steering and the more sophisticated rear suspension.
So is it efficient? During my test drive, I saw consumption as low as 5.3 litres per 100 km and as 'high' as 6.1 litres per 100 km. The Austral hybrid does not need to be plugged in and charged to get the best efficiency from the vehicle.
Pricing and Equipment
Pricing and equipment for the Austral in Ireland will be confirmed closer to launch. The new Austral will slot into the range above the Arkana, which is currently on sale from €30,790 for a petrol mild hybrid and from €33,590 for a 1.6 hybrid.
The new Austral is packed with 32 advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), up from 26 in the Megane E-TECH and 16 in the Arkana. They include a latest-generation head-up display, level 2 driving automation with Active Driver Assist, a 3D camera for 360° vision, full park assist and a detection system that prevents the car from pulling out if another vehicle is overtaking.
Summary
The new Renault Austral arrives in a segment that has been steadily moving towards hybrid and alternatives to traditional diesel engines that used to reign supreme in this segment. It presents challenges to carmakers to create more efficient SUVs with less emissions, while also being practical and good to drive.
Renault chooses a standard hybrid approach for new Austral, which they propose as a more practical motoring solution for their customers - the relative simplicity of it, efficiency without caveats of daily charging, and it's light, bringing a natural edge to on the road performance and driver engagement.
So far the range-topping versions tested with Renault's third generation four wheel steering shine for that powerful hybrid and smooth, agile drive, while also returning the sort of efficiency that rivals some diesels and small petrol hatchbacks. So much so that I suspect you won't actually miss diesel from the range.
This will be a stylish offering inside and out, with a great cabin experience and step forward in connectivity that means it's light years away from the Kadjar it replaces.
Renault makes a welcome return to the mid-size family SUV segment with the Austral!
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Renault Austral Debuts For The First Time
Renault has released the first images and details of their new electrified SUV, the new Renault Austral.
The Austral is an all-new model for the French brand and will replace the Kadjar in the brand's line-up of SUVs.
Features of the new Renault Austral
Designed on the 3rd generation CMF-CD platform, the new Austral will be available as a hybrid. It will have many technology features, including Renault's 4CONTROL Advanced and 32 driving aids.
The Renault Austral chassis will come in two versions. The first is a flexible torsion beam for two-wheel steering models. Then there's a multi-link rear axle with 4CONTROL Advanced for four-wheel steering. It promises the agility of a city car in urban driving.
17" to 20" wheels are available, a bi-tone roof option, and an exclusive Esprit Alpine version for a sportier look.
The new Austral's cabin is built around the new OpenR Link multimedia system. It combines a 12.3" dashboard instrument display with the 12" vertical multimedia screen. A new 9.3" head up display is also available.
The modular design means that some models feature a 2/3–1/3 split-folding rear seat. It can also be individually adjusted along 16 cm rails. There's also a handsfree tailgate and 500 litres The generous boot comes fitted with a hands-free power tailgate. There's 500 litres of boot space in mild hybrid versions of the new Austral.
Hybrid for the new Austral
The new Austral will be available with a number of powertrains, including the latest generation E-Tech Hybrid with up to 200 hp. There are also two petrol engines - a 130hp 48V Mild Hybrid Advanced and a 140hp/160hp 12V Mild Hybrid.
The Mild Hybrid Advanced engine makes its Renault debut in the new Austral. It combines the latest 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with a 48V lithium-ion battery and starter motor. It has 130hp and comes with a manual transmission.
The Mild Hybrid uses a 1.3-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged direct injection petrol engine. It can be found already in a selection of Renault vehicles. Developed in collaboration with Daimler, the engine is backed up by a starter motor and a 12V lithium-ion battery. It comes with either 140hp or 160hp with the X-TRONIC automatic transmission, or as 140hp on manual models.
When it arrives in Ireland, the Austral will join the new Arkana and new electric Megane E-TECH in the brand's C-segment offering.
Renault Arkana Review
Read Caroline's Renault Arkana review for everything you need to know about buying the brand's new hybrid SUV in Ireland.
What's so special about the new Renault Arkana?
The Renault Arkana arrived in Ireland in 2021 and is a mid-size SUV priced from €30,340, with a hybrid available. This exciting new SUV coupé for the French brand will go on sale alongside the popular Captur and Kadjar SUVs, with Renault's latest mild hybrid and E-TECH hybrid powertrains making up the range.
The Kadjar is to be replaced in 2022 by a new SUV called the Austral so for the moment the Captur and the Arcana are the most up to date SUVs in the Renault range featuring the best of the brand's design, technology and innovation.
Renault we know already make some of the best-looking cars on the road and the Arkana is no different. SUV coupés used to be something premium brands brought to market to help their customers feel a little more unique and different to their SUV cousins.
Now Renault brings this design concept to the mass market with a very stylish Arkana. It particularly 'pops' in a bright colour like Valencia Orange and is certainly easily distinguishable from a Kadjar for example. The side profile is sporty with typical Renault flourish to the LED light signatures front and rear. Tinted windows, chrome trim on the wing badging, 3D rear LED lighting and 17-inch diamond-cut ‘Bahamas’ alloy wheels all feature on entry-level Iconic models, plus body-colour door handles with chrome and black lower door protection.
WATCH MY VIDEO REVIEW OF THE NEW ARKANA!
Inside the Arkana
The Arkana gets a new generation Renault interior. It makes all the difference to the desirability of this new model. The design is nice and there is a good fit and finish to the interior. It's probably the best quality we have seen in a Renault SUV to date.
There's also a significant digital presence in the cabin. Iconic models kick off the range with a 7.0-inch display with DAB radio and Bluetooth functionality, while S Edition and R.S. Line models have a 9.3-inch portrait screen featuring navigation with live traffic services and weather information, Google address search and 4G connectivity and automatic update services for three years. The 9.3 inch screen is worth the upgrade. It looks more modern in the centre of the dash and is nice to use. Arkana S Edition and R.S. Line models also feature a 7.0-inch TFT Driver Information Display ahead of the driver.
Arkana R.S. Line models like the one on test start from €35,140 but it's an even better looking car with a really great cabin. The interior of the Renault Arkana R.S. Line stands out with special R.S. Line sports seats upholstered in leather and suede-effect, complemented by red stitching that also extends to the door panels, gear lever and central armrest. Red detailing is also found on the leather steering wheel with unique R.S. Line marker. Completing the interior enhancements are aluminium pedals, a carbon-effect dashboard panel with full-width red trim, plus black headlining. It's just a nice cabin to spend time in and interact with.
It looks great but is it practical?
The Renault Arkana has not compromised space for style despite the sloping roofline and trendy SUV coupé looks. The Arkana belongs to the C segment and offers reasonable accommodation for a family with enough headroom in the rear and legroom for two adults to be comfortable.
Based on the CMF-B modular platform, the Arkana is longer than the Kadjar. It offers a high driving position popular with drivers of Renault’s SUVs. The boot is surprisingly large too, packing in 480 litres in E-TECH hybrids, and 513-litres with a variable-height boot floor in 1.3-litre mild hybrid petrol versions. For maximum interior space, the rear seats fold, leaving a level, flat load area for bulkier items.
The Arkana was built to be a hybrid from the start of development and is a key model to push forward the broadened electrification of Renault’s model range. The brand's new E-TECH hybrid powertrain features across every trim level. It uses a 1.6-litre petrol engine, 1.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and two electric motors, with a power output of 145 hp.
Renault Ireland think it will be the engine of choice in the line-up for the majority of customers. It's proposed as the most efficient of the range, returning consumption as low as to 4.8l/100 km (WLTP). Arkana will also be available in Ireland with the TCe 140 petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology. This 1.3-litre engine has 140 hp and fuel consumption is officially rated at 5.8l/100km (WLTP). Both offerings are automatic by default. No manual gearboxes or diesel on offer in this range.
Driving the Renault Arkana Hybrid
The Arkana Hybrid is a truly impressive car on the road. It feels more powerful than what 145 hp might suggest on paper. Then there's the way the power is delivered. There's no lumpiness to the transmission, just power delivered solidly and confidently. The batteyr boost makes it very responsive to the throttle.
But is it efficient? Over a week of driving my average fuel consumption was 6.1 litres per 100 km. So not quite as efficient as Renault claim but still good for a petrol driven mid-size SUV.
Did you like it?
Yes! The Renault Arkana is one of the best cars I drove in 2021. It looks great and for the moment remains quite a distinctive presence in the C-SUV segment with its sporty SUV-coupé looks. R.S. Line models are hugely desirable for their sporty inspired looks and the superbly finished cabin.
The Arkana is mature and confident on the road. Hybrid power suits it very well. While fuel efficiency is not quite diesel rivalling for drivers who regularly take long motorway commutes, it is a good hybrid SUV debut by Renault and there are no ugly surprises here when it comes to fuel consumption.
Around town the Arkana will do even better, running on electric power more but always with the back-up of the petrol engine. There is no charging involved of this E-TECH hybrid - which can be very convenient in its own way.
With SUVs still being the hot spot of the market, it seems there can never be too many available and the Arkana brings a typically premium SUV coupé style to the mass market - with considerable style.
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: Renault Arkana E-TECH Hybrid R.S. Line
Price: €36,540
Engine: 1.6-litre petrol electric hybrid
Power: 145 hp
Torque: 250 Nm
0-100km/h: 10.8 seconds
Top speed: 172 km/h
CO2 emissions: 109 g/km
Motor tax: €180 per year
Renault Arkana Available To Order Now!
Renault Ireland has confirmed that the new Renault Arkana is now available to order in Ireland. The new SUV with coupé styling will go on sale alongside the Captur and Kadjar, priced from €28,990.
In Ireland the Arkana is available in three trim lines - Iconic, S Edition and R.S. Line. Standard equipment includes EASY LINK touchscreen display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, diamond-cut alloy wheels and full LED lighting technology.
Inside there is said to be a spacious, comfortable interior trimmed with high quality materials across all models, with features like ambient lighting and premium upholstery options.
The 2021 Renault Arkana will go on sale in Ireland with the brand's latest engine technology including the E-TECH hybrid (145 hp) and TCe petrol mild-hybrid.
FULL IRISH PRICING
| TCe 140 Auto EDC | E-TECH Hybrid 145 Auto | |
| All-new Arkana Iconic | €28,990 | €30,490 |
| All-new Arkana S Edition | €31,090 | €32,590 |
| All-new Arkana R.S. Line | €33,690 | €35,190 |
Iconic models feature a 7.0-inch display with DAB radio and Bluetooth functionality, while S Edition and R.S. Line models have a 9.3-inch portrait screen featuring navigation with live traffic services and weather information, Google address search and 4G connectivity and automatic update services for three years. From launch, Arkana S Edition and R.S. Line models also feature a 7.0-inch TFT Driver Information Display ahead of the driver.
The Arkana is Renault’s first purpose-built hybrid model, and a key model in pushing forward the broadened electrification of Renault’s model range. It offers the E-TECH hybrid powertrain across every trim level, inspired by Renault’s experience and expertise in Formula 1. In the Arkana, the E-Tech Hybrid 145 powertrain combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine, 1.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and two electric motors, and Renault believe it to be the engine of choice in the line-up for the majority of customers.
Emitting as little as 111g/km of CO2 and returning consumption as low as to 4.9l/100km, the new Arkana E-TECH Hybrid is said to prioritise driving on electric power alone from the moment the vehicle starts.
Also available on all Arkana models is a TCe 140 petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology. Offering 140 hp and 260 Nm of torque, this 1.3-litre engine propels the new Arkana from 0-100km/h in 9.8 seconds, while also offering consumption as low as 5.8l/100km and CO2 emissions of 131g/km.
The mild-hybrid technology works with a 12-volt starter generator that ensures faster and more refined operation of the Stop & Start function when coming to a standstill, while also reducing emissions at the same time. The TCe 140 engine is available exclusively with a seven-speed dual-clutch EDC transmission delivering smooth and refined gear changes.
Renault Megane Hatch E-TECH Plug-In Hybrid Arrives!
Renault is strengthening its electrified vehicle range in Ireland with the arrival of the new Renault Mégane Hatch E-TECH Plug-In Hybrid. It joins the Renault Megane Sports Tourer E-TECH Plug-In Hybrid that is already on sale here since the beginning of 2021.
It goes on sale priced from €32,240 (including €2,500 SEAI grant for private buyers).
Customers can choose from two trim levels – the Iconic E-Tech Plug-In Hybrid 160 Auto and the sportier R.S. Line E-Tech Plug-In Hybrid 160 Auto.
Both versions feature a 1.6-litre petrol engine complemented by two electric motors. CO2 emissions are rated at just 28g/km (WLTP). The new hybrid Megane hatchback can be driven on electric power only for a range of up to 50 km.
With 160 hp available, the 0-100 km/h time is 9.4 seconds, going on to a top speed of 182 km/h.
The new hybrid is more powerful than any other petrol and diesel Mégane in the range, with the exception of the high performance RS and Trophy versions.
Standard equipment includes electronic parking brake, front and rear electric windows, cruise control with speed limiter, 10-inch TFT driver’s display, Eco Mode, EV mode button, MULTI-SENSE with three driving modes and eight ambient lighting colours, and a hands-free key card.
Safety equipment includes front and rear parking sensors, Hill Start Assist and the Visio System that incorporates lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, and automatic high/low beam.
The Iconic trim level gets 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, leather steering wheel, and frameless rear-view mirror. There's also the EASYLINK navigation system with two USB ports, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay that are accessible through its 7-inch touchscreen.
The R.S. Line version gains exclusive body-coloured R.S. Line bumpers, 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, and an R.S. leather steering wheel. Safety is further enhanced with the fitment of the Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS), rear parking camera and hands-free parking, while the EASYLINK navigation system has a larger 9.3-inch touchscreen.
Customers will be able to further personalise their Mégane Hatch Plug-In Hybrid with options such as the Signature Pack, which adds adaptive cruise control, Lane Keeping Assistance, E-Call, BOSE audio and a leather interior.
The Mégane Hatch Plug-In Hybrid uses the same technology that debuted on the Captur E-Tech hybrid, which was engineered with input from the Alpine F1 team. It combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with a 9.8 kW lithium-ion battery and two electric motors, together with the automatic, multi-mode dog gearbox that features in all other E-Tech models.
In operation, it starts the vehicle in 100 per cent electric mode, significantly reducing the gap in acceleration during gear changes. This means a smoother, more refined drive plus better performance.
Battery charging on a home charging point takes as little as 3 hours at 3.6 kW, while the included domestic cable enables charging from a 3-pin plug.
Renault Megane Sport Tourer E-TECH Hybrid Review
Caroline drives the 2021 Renault Megane Sport Tourer Hybrid!
In late 2020, Renault launched a suite of new hybrid models in Ireland with some familiar faces – Clio, Captur and Megane! Hybrid is hot right now, and the technology holds much promise for Irish motorists.
Hybrid is a new direction for a brand that went electric for the first time with the launch of the Renault Zoe electric supermini back in 2012. With a strong customer base to work with in the Irish market, the French brand now adds petrol electric hybrids to the mix of diesel and petrol in key model ranges like the Captur and Megane.
What's new for the Megane in 2021?
The Renault Megane has also had some work done for 2021 to keep it fresh. The grille and bumpers have been updated, all the lights are now LED – front, rear, and fog - with dynamic indicators at the rear for the first time and new door-handle lighting.
The Megane is offered in three variants – hatchback, saloon (‘Grand Coupe’) and estate (‘Sport Tourer’). The hybrid debuts in the Megane Sport Tourer, though the hatchback will also soon be available as a hybrid too.
What's so special about the Renault Megane Sport Tourer E-TECH Hybrid?
Here we find the practical and efficient Renault Megane Sport Tourer E-TECH plug-in hybrid on test for Changing Lanes. The Sport Tourer is the one with the big boot and a good looker for those in the market for a compact estate car.
Priced at €30,490 in Iconic trim, or at €32,490 in the new sporty R.S. Line trim, the new Sport Tourer E-TECH brings hybrid to the Megane range for the first time. It uses a 1.6-litre petrol engine, two electric motors, and a 9.8 kWh battery. Power output is a healthy 160 hp making it the most powerful, while the automatic transmission adds to the high spec feel. In fact, it’s already shaping up as a good buy.
The beauty of the Renault Megane Sport Tourer E-TECH is not just its good looks, but also the ability to plug it in and charge up the battery to experience driving on battery power alone up to 50 km.
Is it nice to drive?
And even when the battery power runs out, you have here a very efficient car with my fuel consumption averaging at 5.2 litres per 100 km over a week of driving. An official CO2 figure of 30 g per km means that this car is just €140 to tax per year.
The battery will charge in 3 hours from a wallbox or in just over 4 hours from a domestic 3-pin socket.
E-TECH powertrains use advanced technology influenced by the Renault DP World F1 team, including a multi-mode clutchless gearbox for smooth and swift responses.
With 160 hp available, the Megane Sport Tourer responds confidently to the throttle. The car feels natural on the road and remains a tidy handler through bends. It’s not a sports car, but overall feels very accomplished. There are no paddles to operate the automatic; but smooth shifts prevail most of the time. It’s highly commended for comfort too, which seals the deal for this test driver!
Is it practical?
Yes! Just look at it!
The Renault Mégane Sport Tourer sits on a longer wheelbase to the hatchback, making for a much more comfortable seating experience for rear seat passengers. There’s good headroom and the rear footwells have enough depth to be comfortable for long legged folk.
The boot is square with a low loading sill making it ideal for lifting things in and out more easily. Yet overall capacity is down to 447 litres to accommodate the battery. It’s still ‘big’ when you open the lid and look in – but a petrol or diesel Megane Sport Tourer will beat it for outright capacity. There is space beneath the boot floor to keep charging cables stowed away tidily.
Inside the Renault Megane Sport Tourer
Renault has also updated the Megane’s interior somewhat for 2021. No more need to complain about the fiddly ventilation controls. Renault has added in some shortcut buttons, dials and switches to alter fan speed and temperature the old-fashioned way. Much welcome when you are on the move.
The 7” touchscreen is fitted as standard to the E-TECH Iconic, with the more impressive 9.3” portrait style as standard on the R.S. Line model. There are a lot of hard plastics in here but generally it’s a solid effort from Renault. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also come as standard for more seamless access to media, contacts, and maps. There’s a magnificent 10.2-inch digital display for the driver.
The E-TECH Iconic has a good level of standard kit as well including cruise control, rear parking sensors and camera, dual zone climate control, 16” alloys, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, automatic high beam and ambient lighting.
Did you like it?
The Renault Megane Sport Tourer is nice to drive and very practical. This is a good looking car, with the practicality of an estate-style boot – regardless of the space being impeded somewhat by the battery, the boot floor is flat, the opening wide.
Considering the spec of the car, Renault Ireland has kept this particular model well-priced to keep it a real viable option in the Megane range.
This car marks a debut for plug-in hybrid in the Megane range, so the first Megane that can be charged up and ran using battery power for a limited range of up to 50 km. But Renault’s technical wizardry means that whatever way you run the Megane Sport Tourer, it’s very efficient.
Super comfortable on the road, this is a great car! Now check out my review of the latest Renault Megane 1.5 dCi hatchback.
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: Renault Megane Sport Tourer Iconic E-TECH Plug-in Hybrid 160 Auto
Price: €30,490
Engine: 1.6-litre petrol electric hybrid
Power: 160 hp
Torque: 349 Nm
Top speed: 111 km/h
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 9.8 seconds
CO2 emissions: 30 g/km
Motor Tax: €140 per year
Renault ZOE E-TECH Offer For Driving Schools!
With over 1,500 approved driving instructors (ADIs) in Ireland and with the reopening of driving lessons and testing, Renault Ireland has launched a 2021 offer for Driving Schools.
The offer includes a new all-electric Renault Zoe E-Tech, available for €499 per month over 4 years.
Renault says the Zoe E-Tech Iconic R110 Rapid Charge on offer is a cost-effective and reliable choice for driving schools because 25% of learners take their tests in automatic cars and learner drivers can also save money on their driving tests when they choose an automatic car, as they spend 40% less time on driving lessons than for manual cars, with a benefit of higher customer rotation for driving instructors.
Some of the benefits driving instructors can avail of include the €5,000 SEAI grant if the car is registered and taxed as private; a free home charger worth €1,000 (SEAI charger grant included); free driving school vehicle conversion worth €855 incl VAT and finance at 0% APR; metallic paint and delivery charges; the cost of a standard Zoe replacement car for 1 day per year (total of 4 days) and a Maintenance Plan over 4 years / 200,000 km.
The Renault Zoe E-Tech has an electric range of 395 km with 50 kW fast charging available on the Iconic model on offer.
Equipment includes handsfree keycard, automatic climate control, EasyLink multimedia with 7” touchscreen with navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and automatic lights and windscreen wipers.
Renault Captur Hybrid (2021) Review
Caroline drives the new Renault Captur Hybrid!
Renault joins the hybrid pack with the new Renault Captur E-TECH Plug-in Hybrid. The ever-popular Captur now offers buyers the choice of petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid power, as tested here for Changing Lanes.
Based on the latest generation of the Captur - which launched in Ireland in 2020 - the new Renault Captur E-TECH Plug-in Hybrid offers buyers a pure electric driving range of up to 50 km with CO2 emissions as low as 34 g per kilometre.
What's new for the Captur in 2021?
Priced from €30,170, the new Renault Captur E-TECH sits at the higher end of the Captur range. There are two well-equipped trim levels – S-Edition and the all the bells and whistles E-TECH launch version (from €31,170). Under the bonnet, there’s a 1.6-litre petrol engine, which combined with two electric motors and 9.8 kWh battery produces 160 hp, making it the most powerful Captur in the range. It’s also an automatic by design for even more convenience in traffic or town.
At Changing Lanes, we are very fond of the latest generation of the Captur. Now in its second generation, the Renault Captur has really hit its stride in design and quality. It sports more mature styling but still looks fun, classy, and colourful. Interior quality has improved with a stylish finish that suits this small SUV very well indeed.
Inside the Renault Captur Hybrid
Inside the 2021 Renault Captur, you will find a comfortable cabin filled with Renault’s latest digital technology and infotainment. The portrait style touch screen measures 9.3 inches as standard and looks very contemporary in the centre of the dash, with crisp graphics and compatibility with smartphones through the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto interfaces. The driver also has the treat of a full digital driver display, which includes some information about the hybrid system for this special E-TECH model.
The Captur also appears perfectly sized with a good feeling of space inside the cabin, good shoulder room and feels roomy in the back for this class of vehicle. The rear bench can be slid forward and back as an extra practical feature. Boot volume is down on the standard diesel and petrol versions of the car – between 265 and 379 litres depending on position of the rear bench.
Equipment levels are very high with our S-Edition test car packing in traffic light recognition, cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, 17" alloys, automatic climate control, automatic high beam, front and rear parking sensors, reversing camera, roof bars, two tone colour paint, rear privacy glass and wireless phone charging.
So what’s it like to drive?
Based on Renault's modular CMF-B architecture, the new Captur was designed for electrification from the start. E-TECH powertrains use advanced technology influenced by the Renault DP World F1 team, including a multi-mode clutchless gearbox for smooth and swift responses.
The Captur E-TECH hybrid takes off super silently in electric power. It remains smooth and sophisticated in the cabin, dealing with bumps in the road well despite its compact nature. The extra power available in this car is a real surprise and battery powered acceleration a delight for the right foot. Who knew 160 hp in a Captur could feel so good? It gives this car the maturity and responsiveness of a larger, more sophisticated car.
The Captur handles the road well but it is not a sports car, with the battery adding some weight that makes it less up for a dance through corners. But we are happy with the Captur’s performance and think that Renault engineers have done a good job here.
Remember you can charge this car in about three hours at 3.6 kW and enjoy up to 50 km on full battery power. This is ideal for buyers who can charge regularly and drive around town often on electric power. I was a bit tardy when it came to charging, but I still managed to achieve an average fuel consumption over a week of driving of 5.7 litres per 100 kms. Not bad at all!
Did you like it?
The Renault Captur is a fantastic small SUV. Our recent test drive was a reminder of all we love about this car – stylish, fun interior, spacious and practical. So what happens when you add plug-in hybrid?
Renault is revving up their entire range at the moment with the addition of hybrid to Clio, Captur and the Megane range. Of course any manufacturer worth their salt needs to be rolling out this technology at the moment. Renault already markets the popular all-electric Renault ZOE. But plug-in hybrid can be an interesting stepping stone to going full electric, allowing users adapt to charging a car and running on electric power.
Renault has meshed plug-in hybrid technology well into the Captur so we are impressed with this car’s feel on the road and power. Even without charging it posts some competitive efficiency figures. Though the real bonus is for buyers who run on electric power regularly and keep the battery topped up.
Captur has already got some great petrol and diesel engines on offer in the range. The Captur plug-in hybrid has a high spec and automatic gearbox, but it still commands a high list price with some compromise to boot space.
We like the Captur plug-in hybrid – it’s a good car – and when you compare it to other high spec automatics in the Captur range, it’s priced in the same ballpark. Whatever way you look at Captur – petrol, diesel or hybrid – it makes such a great small SUV.
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: Renault Captur E-TECH Plug-in Hybrid
Price: €30,170
Engine: 1.6-litre petrol electric hybrid
Power: 160 hp
0-100km/h: 10.1 seconds
Top speed: 173 km/h
Fuel economy: 1.5-1.6 l/100 km
CO2 emissions (WLTP): 34 g/km
Motor Tax: €140 per year