The Renault Rafale is a head-turning flagship SUV coupé that blends standout style with the punchy performance of Renault’s full hybrid E-Tech powertrain.
Its 1.2-litre petrol engine works with twin electric motors to deliver brisk acceleration and impressively low emissions – a mix that secured it the title of Best Hybrid Large SUV within the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards, where judges praised each its performance and elegance.
Step inside and also you’ll discover a premium, technology-rich cabin, crafted with sustainable materials to make it a a daring, stylish addition to Renault’s growing electrified line-up
The Rafale is obtainable in 4 trim levels – Techno, Techno Esprit Alpine, Iconic Esprit Alpine – which AM put through its paces – and the range-topping Atelier Alpine. The latter comes exclusively with the hybrid E-Tech 4×4 300hp powertrain, delivering all-wheel drive, and lots of power when needed.
What stands out with the 200hp powertrain is that, for dealers looking to focus on fuel efficiency alongside D-segment performance, the Rafale Esprit Alpine Iconic offers a compelling proposition within the hybrid market.
The Rafale Esprit Alpine Iconic’s advanced hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) system integrates a petroleum engine with electric motors to optimise fuel consumption without compromising on power, boosting efficiency, particularly in stop-and-go urban driving.
On motorways, the petrol engine works efficiently with electric assistance, maintaining optimal fuel use at higher speeds.
It delivers strong fuel economy figures, outperforming many conventional petrol sports cars in its class so dealers can confidently present this model as a wise alternative for patrons who want the joy of a performance automotive but with significantly reduced fuel costs and lower emissions.
While its fuel-efficiency earns it sufficient plaudits alone, the Rafale doesn’t sacrifice style or driving enjoyment, nevertheless. The Rafale Esprit Alpine Iconic hits the sweet spot, making it a sexy offering to eco-conscious buyers and go-fast petrolheads alike.
This implies positioning the Rafale as a hybrid performance vehicle with tangible fuel savings is an efficient sales angle that might be usefully employed to broaden the client base.
When it comes to offers, the Rafale is currently available with, 0% APR PCP, no minimum deposit offering. This sees the 200hp Rafale E-Tech Hybrid available for £281 per thirty days when a customer puts down a £6,000 deposit over 36 months and clocks up 18,000 miles during that period.
If customers want more power, then they’ll go for the 300hp PHEV version. Here, the Rafale PHEV Esprit Alpine 4×4 300 would cost just £357 per thirty days on the identical basis. Again, there is no such thing as a minimum deposit required.
Potential buyers may also mess around with the finance calculators on the Renault website to decide on a finance package tailored to their needs.
Price: £37,195
Engine: Petrol 1.2L
Transmission: 1.2L Transmission Automatic
Range: WLTP range 683 miles
Performance: 0-62mph 8.9 secs
Max speed: 111 mph
This Article First Appeared At www.am-online.com
