# Renault Rafale: A Hybrid Coupé-SUV for Driving Pleasure
Renault has opened order books for its new flagship model, the Renault Rafale. The Rafale is a hybrid coupé-SUV designed to provide an exhilarating driving experience. Priced from £38,195, the vehicle is set to make a significant impact in the D-segment, which accounts for 15% of car sales across Europe.
The Rafale is built on the CMF-CD platform, which is shared with other Renault Group models. It measures 4.7m in length, has a height of 1.61m, and features a long wheelbase of 2.74m. Its design includes a striking new grille, prominent haunches, and a long fastback roof that not only offers generous rear passenger headroom but also contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency.
At launch, the Rafale will be available in a front-wheel-drive hybrid version with a power output of 197bhp. This powertrain consists of a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine and two electric motors. The petrol engine drives the front wheels via a four-speed automatic gearbox, while the electric motors provide additional power and assist with acceleration. The car always starts under electric power, and its two-speed dog box is managed by the electric motor. The Rafale can also be driven in short-range electric mode using its 2kWh battery.
With its 197bhp power output, the Rafale can accelerate from 0-62mph in 8.9 seconds and achieve a fuel economy rating of 60.1mpg. It will be available in three trim levels: Techno, Techno Esprit Alpine, and Iconic Esprit Alpine. Pricing starts at £38,195 for the entry-level Techno trim and goes up to £44,695 for the range-topping Iconic Esprit Alpine model.
In addition to the front-wheel-drive hybrid version, Renault plans to release a four-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid variant of the Rafale. This model will feature the same front-mounted powertrain as the original but will also have an electrified rear axle with a separate electric motor. The plug-in hybrid version is expected to have an EV-only range of 30-40 miles.
The Rafale stands out from its siblings, the Austral and Espace, with its wider front and rear tracks, unique suspension setup, and optional four-wheel steering. These enhancements give the Rafale a 10.4m turning radius at low speeds and improve stability through bends at up to 30mph.
UK deliveries for the Renault Rafale are scheduled to begin in July.
## Q&A with Gilles Vidal, Vice President of Design, Renault Group
Gilles Vidal, Vice President of Design at Renault Group, shares insights into the design and features of the Renault Rafale:
1. What makes the Rafale different from other Renault models?
Vidal explains that the team had the opportunity to start from a blank sheet of paper when designing the Rafale. They aimed to create a car that was assertive in its design without being overloaded with details. The sharp, shape-defining lines and wider stance give the car a promise of driving pleasure. Unique design elements, such as the grille made up of angled tiles shaped like the Renault badge and distinctive daylight-running lights, will be carried forward to future Renault models.
2. What can customers expect from the interior of the Rafale?
According to Vidal, the interior of the Rafale offers plenty of features and attention to detail. The use of sustainable materials, new instrument graphics, and superb seats contribute to a premium feel. The car even incorporates slate as a trim material. Notable interior features include a solar roof that darkens progressively at the touch of a switch and a special rear armrest that offers device holders and power sources for rear passengers.
Overall, the Renault Rafale represents a significant step in Renault’s model-renewal plan and showcases the brand’s commitment to delivering driving pleasure in a hybrid coupé-SUV. With its striking design, advanced hybrid powertrain, and thoughtful interior features, the Rafale is set to make a strong impression in the competitive D-segment.
