Renault has launched the Rafale, its new premium SUV, in Europe. The platform, particularly the wheelbase, of the coupe-SUV, is shared with the family-oriented Austral and Espace.
The Renault Rafale has a stunning new grille, broad haunches, and a long fastback roof that provides substantial rear passenger headroom while also being aerodynamically efficient. The SUV is built on Renault's CMF-CD platform, which already supports 15 million Renault Group cars starting with the Clio. With an overall length of 4.7m, a height of 1.61m, and a wheelbase of 2.74m, it fits squarely in the SUV market.
The Rafale, according to the manufacturer, is "a vehicle born and nurtured for driving pleasure." It will come in two varieties. The Rafale will be launched with a 194hp clutchless hybrid powertrain powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine and two electric motors. The 127hp Atkinson Cycle engine powers the front wheels through a four-speed automated gearbox. Between the engine and the main gearbox is a 66hp electric drive motor (with its own inbuilt two-speed dog box).
The second electric motor is a starter-generator that starts the gasoline engine, collects energy when the car coasts or brakes, and can help with acceleration when needed. This electronically controlled powertrain does not require a clutch because the automobile always begins on electric power alone, and the meshing of the two-speed dog box is managed by the electric motor.
The new flagship will first be available in Europe as a 194hp front-wheel-drive hybrid, but a 290hp four-wheel-drive model is also planned. The standard Rafale model has a 2kWh battery that allows for short-range electric driving. The 290hp, four-wheel-drive Rafale retains the original's front-mounted powertrain but adds an electrified rear axle with a separate electric motor in the unit with a rear differential. This model features a larger battery and is thought to be a plug-in hybrid with an EV-only range of 48-64 kilometres.
Renault now only sells three vehicles in India: the Kwid, Triber, and Kiger. While the Renault Rafale will not make its debut here, the Duster brand will return in 2025. The third-generation Duster will be more off-road oriented, tougher looking, and capable of supporting combustion engines, hybrids, and electric vehicles. A Nissan derivative will also be available for the new Duster.