Renault has unveiled its Rafale hybrid SUV at Paris Air Show. Having an aviation-inspired design, the all-new Renault Rafale ushers in a new era in the French auto manufacturer’s design.
Rafale is a French word that evokes wind and is also an aeronautical reference. Aviation has played an important part in Renault’s history: the Caudron-Renault Rafale, which flew at a record-breaking 445 km/h in 1934, is an example.
According to the company’s official press statement:
“It is visionary, daring, perfectly in tune with its time and tailor-made for a period when everything is moving ever faster and only avantgarde models will stay attractive throughout their life cycle.”
Rafale is positioned as the flagship model in the Renault range. It reinforces Renault’s offensive in the D-segment with a coupe SUV body type. The hybrid SUV has an overall length of 4.7m, a height of 1.61m, with a wheelbase of 2.74m.
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Renault Rafale comes powered by the new E-Tech 4×4 300 hp powertrain. It will be offered in two variants – the 1.2L three-cylinder petrol engine equipped with two electric motors having a power output of 194hp. The other variant is a 127hp Atkinson Cycle engine with a four-speed automatic gearbox. There is a 2kWh battery under the driver’s seat with an EV-only range of 48-64km.
The all-new Renault Rafale
The all-new Renault Rafale also features up-to-the-minute connectivity and a 200 hp E-Tech full hybrid powertrain which the company says is as efficient as it is frugal and uses recycled materials. The 200 hp E-Tech full hybrid will reach markets in spring 2024. Commenting at the occasion, Fabrice Cambolive, CEO, of Renault said:
“The All-new Renault Rafale is central in the Renaulution, symbolizes our move upmarket and shows that we belong in every customer segment. With its captivating coupe-SUV design crafted for intense experiences, it provides unprecedented driving pleasure with its hybrid powertrains and a standard-setting chassis brimming with passion and know-how from Renault engineers.”
This is also the first production vehicle under new design chief Gilles Vidal. Gilles who is designated as VP of Design at Renault, said:
“The All-new Rafale is a powerful illustration of the Renault brand’s new design language. It is in keeping with its DNA through generous curves, treated with great precision, combined with lines of tension and technical details that bring character and sophistication to the whole. With its unprecedented style, quality craftsmanship, and proportions, the All-new Renault Rafale asserts its power and personality on the road.”
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
