Named after a famous racing plane, the Renault Rafale is the coupe-fied version of the Austral, and it will be exclusively available with hybrid powertrains
This story includes independent illustrations that are not affiliated with Renault. After the official announcement and teasers, the article was revised to include the most up-to-date information. (Updated 6/17)
Renault currently offers the Austral and the Espace, which cater to the compact and midsize SUV segments in Europe. However, there is another closely related model on the horizon. The all-new Rafale that’s named after a 1930s racing plane is scheduled to debut on June 18, bringing an enhanced and more appealing design to the lineup. The Rafale will also share the electrified underpinnings with its sibling models.
Rumors regarding a Renault compact coupe-SUV had been circulating on the internet for a considerable time. However, it wasn’t until April 2023 that the first camouflaged prototypes made their appearance on the road, with an official teaser released on May 16. These testers confirmed that the new Rafale would go beyond being just a coupe-SUV version of the Austral, as it would incorporate Renault’s latest design language.
More: Renault Rafale Is An Austral-Based Hybrid Coupe-SUV, Debuts On June 18
Illustrations Jean Francois Hubert/SB-Medien for CarScoops
The rendering we created integrates the new style of LED headlights that was recently introduced by the facelifted Renault Clio. Vertical DRLs reach lower into the front bumper, merging with the intakes while being thicker than those found in rival Peugeot models. The flagship Esprit Alpine trim will likely feature sportier bumpers, larger-diameter alloy wheels, and special badging.
In addition to its more aggressive styling cues, the Rafale exhibits a bolder overall design compared to the Austral. This is evident in elements such as the fully redesigned rear, which enhances the coupe-SUV stance with pronounced shoulders and a heavily angled rear glass. Anticipate elongated LED taillights that incorporate Renault’s emblem and dual spoilers for added flair.
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A familiar interior
The Rafale’s cabin is likely to be borrowed from the Austral and Espace pictured above
As for the interior, we would be surprised if Renault didn’t use the digital cockpit found in the Austral and the Espace since it already has the latest tech from the automaker’s arsenal. This includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12-inch OpenR Link infotainment touchscreen, and a 9.3-inch head-up display. To further elevate the premium experience, expect the inclusion of a 48-color ambient lighting system and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Alcantara upholstery, similar to that seen on the Esprit Alpine, may also contribute to the upscale ambiance.
The Rafale will be built on the latest iteration of the CMF-CD architecture, which serves as the foundation for various models within the Renault Group. It is likely that the Rafale will share its wheelbase of 2,738 mm (107.8 inches) with the Espace, providing designers with greater flexibility to craft an attractive profile while also allowing for a more spacious interior.
Consequently, the overall length of the coupe-SUV should fall somewhere between the 4,510 mm (177.6 inches) of the Austral and the 4,722 mm (185.9 inches) of the Espace. This sizing would provide the Rafale with more breathing room compared to the Captur-based Arkana, which measures 4,570 mm (179.9 inches) long.
Electrified But Not Fully Electric
When it comes to powertrain options, a heavy dose of electrification is expected in order to align with the sporty appearance of the Rafale. Renault has officially confirmed that the model will be available with E-Tech hybrid engines. It is highly likely that this will include the self-charging hybrid variant, which delivers a combined output of 197 hp (147 kW / 200 PS) and 205 Nm (151.2 lb-ft) of torque, similar to the Austral and Espace models.
This particular setup consists of a turbocharged 1.2-liter engine, an electric motor, a high-voltage starter-generator, a 2 kWh lithium-ion battery, and an automatic gearbox that sends power to the front axle.
More: New Renault Espace Debuts As A Longer Austral SUV With Seven Seats
It is highly likely that Renault will also introduce a more powerful and efficient plug-in hybrid option for the Rafale, featuring a notable all-electric range and strong performance capabilities. Unlike Peugeot, which offers both hybrid and fully electric variants of its models, Renault follows a different strategy by utilizing a separate platform for its electric vehicles, similar to the approach taken by the VW Group.
Therefore, it is expected that the Rafale will not have a zero-emission variant, as Renault will focus on other models within its lineup to fulfill the demand for electric vehicles.
The Renault Rafale is scheduled to have its global debut on June 18 at the Paris air show in Le Bourget, before going on sale in Europe later this year. Positioned within Europe’s midsize segment (D-SUV), it will serve as a direct competitor to the Peugeot 408 fastback. Additionally, higher-spec versions of the Rafale may attract customers who would otherwise consider the base models of premium rivals such as the Mercedes GLC Coupe, BMW X4, and Audi Q5 Sportback.