Renault Arkana 2024: Stylish Yet Compact SUV

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Overview
The Renault Arkana has quickly gained attention in the African market, particularly in Morocco, where Renault has a strong manufacturing presence. With large factories in the country, Renault has become a key player in the Moroccan automotive industry, offering a range of vehicles tailored to local preferences. The Arkana, which made its debut in 2019 in Russia, is a unique addition to Renault’s lineup. Built on the same platform as the Dacia/Renault Duster, this compact SUV coupe offers an appealing blend of style and practicality, designed for urban drivers who appreciate a higher driving position without the ruggedness of traditional SUVs.

The Arkana features a sleek and stylish, coupe-inspired design that sets it apart from Renault’s usual models, offering a more premium look while maintaining a functional and approachable hybrid system. In Morocco and across Africa, the Arkana is gaining traction among drivers who seek a vehicle that is both stylish and fuel-efficient, and its affordable pricing makes it a strong contender in the local market. With Renault’s established presence in the region, the Arkana’s appeal is expected to continue growing, especially among those looking for a modern, environmentally-conscious vehicle with a touch of luxury.

Interior Design: Sleek but Compact

The interior of the Renault Arkana is designed to offer a premium and modern feel, with a clean and well-organized layout that enhances its overall upscale atmosphere. The front seats are spacious and comfortable, making long drives a pleasant experience for both the driver and the passenger. The cabin features high-quality materials, with soft-touch surfaces and an elegant dashboard, adding to the vehicle’s premium vibe. The design prioritizes style and comfort, with features like a large touchscreen infotainment system and a multifunction steering wheel, making the cabin both functional and visually appealing.

However, when it comes to rear-seat space, the Arkana may fall short for those who often carry passengers. The legroom in the back is a bit cramped and compact, which could be a concern for families or those needing more flexibility in terms of interior space. While the compact SUV coupe design enhances the vehicle’s sleek exterior, it compromises on rear passenger comfort, especially for taller individuals.

In comparison to other electric vehicles like the Geely Geometry C, the Arkana’s interior might not offer as much space or practicality, especially in the rear seats. However, it still stands out for those looking for a stylish and modern SUV with a focus on front-seat comfort and a premium feel.

Visibility is another aspect worth noting. The sloping roofline of the coupe-inspired design, while visually appealing, can create limitations in rearward visibility, a common trade-off for this body style.

Driving Comfort and Practicality
It offers a comfortable driving experience, especially suited for city commuting. Its hybrid engine provides a mostly smooth ride, though some drivers might notice occasional noise and slight shifts in power when the hybrid system transitions between modes. The automatic transmission includes a ‘B’ mode, which enhances regenerative braking—a feature that recovers energy during deceleration. This is particularly useful in stop-and-go city traffic, as it can reduce the need for frequent braking. 

In terms of handling, the Arkana prioritizes comfort and practicality over sporty performance. Its suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and uneven road surfaces, providing a smooth ride on urban roads. However, some drivers may find the ride a bit firm, especially over rougher terrain. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight city spaces. While it may not deliver the excitement that driving enthusiasts seek, it offers a relaxed and composed drive suitable for daily use. 

Practicality-wise, the Arkana features a spacious front cabin with ample adjustment options for the seats and steering wheel, allowing drivers to find a comfortable position easily. The rear seats, however, offer limited legroom, which might be a drawback for taller passengers or families needing extra space. The sloping roofline, while adding to the vehicle’s stylish appearance, can also limit rear visibility and headroom. Additionally, the boot space is adequate for daily use but may fall short compared to some competitors in the same class.
When it comes to storage, the Arkana offers a reasonably spacious boot with 480 liters, making it suitable for most day-to-day needs or weekend getaways. This space doesn’t push the boundaries for the segment but is ample for most city-based families or individuals.

Safety Excellence
Renault has upheld its reputation for safety with the Arkana, which achieved a five-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test. This high score means that the vehicle’s structure is exceptionally protective, making it a solid choice for safety-conscious buyers. Renault’s commitment to safety here can be reassuring for families or those prioritizing protection on the road.

Fuel Efficiency and Hybrid Benefits
The hybrid system is designed to be fuel-efficient, especially in city driving. According to Renault, the Arkana E-Tech Hybrid can achieve up to 60.1 miles per gallon (mpg) under the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) combined cycle. In real-world testing, drivers have reported achieving around 55 mpg, even with a fair amount of motorway driving. This suggests that in urban settings, where the hybrid system can utilize electric power more frequently, the fuel efficiency could be even higher. 

The Arkana’s hybrid system allows it to operate on electric power alone for short distances, which is particularly beneficial in stop-and-go city traffic. This capability not only enhances fuel efficiency but also contributes to lower CO2 emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice for urban commuters. 

Verdict: Is the Arkana a Good Fit?
The Renault Arkana is a unique addition to Renault’s lineup, offering a balance of style, safety, and city-friendly features. Its coupe-inspired design and functional hybrid capabilities set it apart in the SUV market, though it may leave some drivers desiring more polish in terms of comfort and refinement. Overall, for Moroccan buyers seeking a stylish, safe, and reasonably efficient hybrid SUV, the Arkana provides a practical and economical option with a bit of added flair.
The Renault Arkana 2024 combines style with practicality in a compact SUV form, priced attractively at around 316,000 MAD in Morocco. Though it may have limitations in space and visibility, it excels in city practicality and safety features. For those seeking a sleek and modern SUV that balances design with functionality, the Arkana is a strong contender.