Renault Opening European Order Books For 2021 Arkana This Month

Renault will open up the order books for the 2021 Arkana throughout Europe this month, almost two years after sales of the compact SUV coupe started in Russia.

Underpinning the model that will be sold in Europe is the CMF-B modular platform that is also used by the current Renault Clio and Captur. The Arkana sold in South Korea, badged as the Samsung XM3, also utilizes the same platform while the one sold in Russia uses the same B0+ platform as the Dacia Duster.

The Renault Arkana will be offered exclusively with hybrid powertrains in Europe. The E-TECH hybrid features a 91 hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder petrol engine that works alongside two electric motors, an “e-engine” with 48 hp (36 kW) and a 20 hp (15 kw) high-voltage starter generator, as well as a multi-mode clutchless dogbox transmission. This innovative powertrain produces a combined 140 hp and, according to Renault, allows the SUV to run on all-electric power for up to 80 per cent of the time during city driving.

Two micro-hybrid powertrains will also be offered. Both utilize a 1.3-liter four-cylinder turbo petrol unit coupled to an EDC dual-clutch transmission and an alternator-starting system paired with a 12V lithium-ion battery located under the passenger seat. The entry-level variant of this engine will produce 138 hp while the flagship model will have 158 hp, although the latter won’t launch until October.

Like the Samsung XM3, the Renault Arkana being sold in Europe will be made at the company’s Busan plant in South Korea.

“Arkana is another example of how modernity and innovation are rooted in Renault’s DNA,” Arkana program director François Laurent said in a statement. “It is a hybrid on every level, and perfectly blends the codes of the SUV with a positively sporty allure, combining responsiveness with versatility. It brings a fresh impetus to the mainstream compact SUV segment which is core to the European market. Arkana’s hybrid technology engines are clearly forward-looking and offer a unique driving experience, with the innovative E-TECH Hybrid system at the top of the range, guaranteeing driving pleasure in combination with reduced CO2 emissions and improved fuel efficiency.”