Renault has been in the process of restrategizing its model line-up, particularly its C-segment SUVs. But while it was doing that, the French carmaker has decided to make its next move, by unveiling a completely new SUV – the Renault Rafale.
Named after a racing plane developed back in 1934, the Rafale features the company’s new design language, which is reflected in the Rafale’s front grille design. The Rafale also features the brand’s new matrix LED light signature, which can be found on the recently facelifted 2024 Renault Clio.
Renault brand’s VP Design. Gilles Vidal 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.”
Renault says that the Rafale is born and bred for driving pleasure, and has fitted the new SUV with its E-Tech hybrid setup, totalling an output of 200 hp. A newly developed plug-in hybrid setup is also said to be coming to the Rafale at a later date. This setup will give out a higher output of 300 hp and will feature Renault’s all-wheel drive system, updated rear-wheel steering, as well as model-specific chassis tuning.
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Renault brand CEO, Fabrice Cambolive said, “The All-new Renault Rafale is central in the Renaulution, symbolises 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.”
Inside, the Renault Rafale comes with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, together with a 12-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. The infotainment system runs on Android Automotive 12 and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
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