Mzansi Renault hasn't been able to launch its globally available E-Tech Hybrids in Mzansi due to pricing challenges but it brought in units to showcase how efficient the technology is.
Starting with the Arkana SUV, a model not yet available in Mzansi in any spec, the design is pure Renault with the signature C-shaped headlights with 100% LED lights for improved night visibility. The lower air intakes are divided into 3 sections with the outer sections integrating a blade design.
The Arkana is a stylish Coupe SUV and as such has the slopping roofline with a bee sting antenna placed just above the large rear window. Privacy glass, chrome detailing on the lower door sills compliment the 18-inch standard wheels. The rear features LED lights with a strip that links both light as seen on the Megan. Faux twin exhaust hint at the dynamic design.
The interior is not too far off the Captur in design with a large 9.3-inch infotainment screen, piano button below for hazards, drive select etc. Controls for the climate control are round dials neatly placed above the wireless mobile phone charger (There are four USB plugs, two at the front and two at the rear). The 10.2-inch digital instrument panel also comes standard. Piano black gloss is also featured on the dash giving a quality finish.
Leather is standard with electric adjustment for the front driver seat. Rear seat occupants enjoy 211 mm of knee room and 862 mm of headroom, which is significant for such a coupe design. The boot is generous with 480 litres in the E-TECH Hybrid version, and is extremely easy to access. Its height-adjustable floor can be placed in the low position to maximise loading capacity and in the high position.
The 145hp E-TECH Hybrids consists of a 94hp 1.6 4-cylinder petrol engine and two electric motors - a 36kW e-engine and a 15kW HSG (High-Voltage Starter Generator). The motors can operate independently or in unison, directing their energy to the wheels or to the battery. The driver is not required to do anything: the E-TECH system automatically manages the combinations of operation between the different motors and the gearbox ratios. In use, the mode changes are almost imperceptible. In the city, battery charging during deceleration and braking is optimized. Renault did an economy challenge with a drive around the Zwartkops raceway in Pretoria and the Arkana proved itself to be a very efficient car.
It was joined at the event by the equally efficient and similar engined Captur Hybrid. In a mix of hard and efficient driving, both models drove for 7 hours around the track and had fuel to spare at the end. Best consumption averaged 5.7l/100km. if only the Mzansi Rand would fare better against the Euro, we would not be deprived of such advanced Renault tech.