2024 Renault Rafale Breaks Cover, Set to Take on Audi Q5 Sportback and Citroen C5 X

Renault is known for its diverse lineup of large flagship vehicles. Having said that, the automaker has introduced the all-new Rafale that is set to revolutionise the market with its stylish coupe-SUV design.

This stunning vehicle scheduled to go on sale in mid-2024 with two hybrid powertrain options. The starting price is expected to be around £40,000. It will compete with vehicles like the Audi Q5 Sportback and the Citroen C5 X.

Built on Renault’s CMF-CD platform, the Rafale shares similarities with the Austral but boasts a longer body by 200mm, a lower height by 10mm, and wider tracks by 40mm. The flagship model now has more defined shapes and exquisite detailing, giving it a distinctive road presence. The Rafale exhibits a definite link to Renault’s strong design heritage under the direction of Gilles Vidal, design director at Renault who has successfully revived Peugeot’s image.

The vehicle is packed with ingenious details, such as a three-dimensional grille that reveals a vibrant inner section as you move around the car. Other noteworthy features include the mesmerizing “oil-slick” coatings on the headlight elements and the evolution of Renault’s signature front-end lighting.

Also Read: Renault India to Launch Three New EV Models in Next Couple of Years

Inside the cabin, the Rafale offers a similar layout to the Austral, but the use of high-quality materials elevates the experience. Soft-touch materials, trim highlights in blackened cork or real slate, and Renault’s l-shaped digital interfaces, including a central touchscreen powered by Google-designed software, are standard across all Rafale models.

The Rafale boasts high-end features like a Harmon Kardon stereo system, illuminated elements in the seats, and a full-length electronically controlled frosted glass roof. These upgrades give the Rafale all the bells and whistles it needs to compete directly with luxury competition.

Gilles Vidal, Renault’s design director, expressed his thoughts on the Rafale’s design, stating, “The Rafale project was conceived as a new flagship model for the brand, and we believe our customers will fall in love with it. We explored various shapes, including a shooting brake and a saloon, but we decided on this design as something we know our customers will truly adore.”

Renault has had a diverse history in the D-segment, with varying forms and levels of success. However, the Rafale represents a pragmatic iteration that, with competitive pricing, could finally pave the way for Renault to break into the upper segment of the UK market.

At launch, the Rafale will be available with two hybrid powertrains. The first one is a 197bhp E-Tech powertrain, combining a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine with two electric motors. It offers impressive fuel economy, targeting 60mpg and emitting 105g/km of CO2. The second option is a plug-in hybrid with 296bhp, featuring the same hybrid system and an additional electric motor for all-wheel-drive capabilities and an extended electric range.

Renault has also made adjustments to the Rafale’s suspension, ensuring a unique driving experience. Modifications have been made to the front MacPherson strut and multi-link rear setup. Equipped with passive dampers and available with up to 20-inch wheels, the Rafale is designed to deliver sporty handling while maintaining a certain level of ride comfort. The vehicle also features Renault’s third-generation 4Control Advance four-wheel-steering system, which reduces the turning circle and enhances high-speed stability.

The Renault Rafale is set to make a statement in the automotive industry, offering a pragmatic and captivating option for discerning customers. With its cutting-edge design, hybrid powertrains, and exceptional driving dynamics, the Rafale is poised to leave a lasting impression in the competitive UK market.

Renault is known for its diverse lineup of large flagship vehicles. Having said that, the automaker has introduced the all-new Rafale that is set to revolutionise the market with its stylish coupe-SUV design.

This stunning vehicle scheduled to go on sale in mid-2024 with two hybrid powertrain options. The starting price is expected to be around £40,000. It will compete with vehicles like the Audi Q5 Sportback and the Citroen C5 X.

Built on Renault’s CMF-CD platform, the Rafale shares similarities with the Austral but boasts a longer body by 200mm, a lower height by 10mm, and wider tracks by 40mm. The flagship model now has more defined shapes and exquisite detailing, giving it a distinctive road presence. The Rafale exhibits a definite link to Renault’s strong design heritage under the direction of Gilles Vidal, design director at Renault who has successfully revived Peugeot’s image.

The vehicle is packed with ingenious details, such as a three-dimensional grille that reveals a vibrant inner section as you move around the car. Other noteworthy features include the mesmerizing “oil-slick” coatings on the headlight elements and the evolution of Renault’s signature front-end lighting.

Also Read: Renault India to Launch Three New EV Models in Next Couple of Years

Inside the cabin, the Rafale offers a similar layout to the Austral, but the use of high-quality materials elevates the experience. Soft-touch materials, trim highlights in blackened cork or real slate, and Renault’s l-shaped digital interfaces, including a central touchscreen powered by Google-designed software, are standard across all Rafale models.

The Rafale boasts high-end features like a Harmon Kardon stereo system, illuminated elements in the seats, and a full-length electronically controlled frosted glass roof. These upgrades give the Rafale all the bells and whistles it needs to compete directly with luxury competition.

Gilles Vidal, Renault’s design director, expressed his thoughts on the Rafale’s design, stating, “The Rafale project was conceived as a new flagship model for the brand, and we believe our customers will fall in love with it. We explored various shapes, including a shooting brake and a saloon, but we decided on this design as something we know our customers will truly adore.”

Renault has had a diverse history in the D-segment, with varying forms and levels of success. However, the Rafale represents a pragmatic iteration that, with competitive pricing, could finally pave the way for Renault to break into the upper segment of the UK market.

At launch, the Rafale will be available with two hybrid powertrains. The first one is a 197bhp E-Tech powertrain, combining a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine with two electric motors. It offers impressive fuel economy, targeting 60mpg and emitting 105g/km of CO2. The second option is a plug-in hybrid with 296bhp, featuring the same hybrid system and an additional electric motor for all-wheel-drive capabilities and an extended electric range.

Renault has also made adjustments to the Rafale’s suspension, ensuring a unique driving experience. Modifications have been made to the front MacPherson strut and multi-link rear setup. Equipped with passive dampers and available with up to 20-inch wheels, the Rafale is designed to deliver sporty handling while maintaining a certain level of ride comfort. The vehicle also features Renault’s third-generation 4Control Advance four-wheel-steering system, which reduces the turning circle and enhances high-speed stability.

The Renault Rafale is set to make a statement in the automotive industry, offering a pragmatic and captivating option for discerning customers. With its cutting-edge design, hybrid powertrains, and exceptional driving dynamics, the Rafale is poised to leave a lasting impression in the competitive UK market.