Dhe Formula 1 takes effect. Renault drives in the racing series under the brand name Alpine and is getting better and faster. What works at the limit there should also be an advantage in large-scale production, the engineers say, and inject a touch of formula technology into their E-Tech engines. The 1.6-liter four-cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine has two electric motors, a master with 49 and an apprentice with 20 hp. The trio develops a system output of 143 hp and raises a number of questions. Does the interaction work? Is it worth the effort? Wouldn’t a plug-in hybrid that can be charged at the socket be the more sensible solution?
Let’s start with the last question because it implies all of the other answers. From a tax point of view, yes, there is no subsidy for the high-tech solution. Because the battery only holds 1.2 kWh, the E-Tech can only maneuver electrically in the underground car park. That is not enough for the legislature in donation pants, but of course worth a lot to the engineer, because first and foremost, it is important to provide additional thrust with a low weight and thus to help the gasoline engine on the jumps. To do this, two gears are sorted under and with one another on the electric drive and four on the combustion engine. The driver does not have to worry about the complex ensemble; he simply engages the automatic selector lever in reverse or forwards and simply drives off.
This is almost always done electrically, a short time later the combustion engine switches on. From then on, there is an interplay, which can usually only be recognized by the display in the cockpit. Those who always take it easy will be happy. Who doesn’t, who doesn’t. Moments are unfortunate when temperament is required. That is ascribed to the Arkana with its lively design at first glance, but unfortunately nobody said that to the engine. The data sheet states 0 to 100 km / h in 10.8 seconds and a top speed of 172 km / h. The reality is even more tired. Anyone who uses the acceleration lane on the autobahn as a benchmark is redefining the term “threading”. The drive is not only lazy, the gasoline engine also makes an undue noise under load. Which he sometimes does without a hitch when the control electronics are of the opinion that the battery needs to be charged. 5.9 liters of super consumption are in the test protocol. In short: we would use the cheaper gasoline engine without e-tech and then enjoy the arcana.
Driving report
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Renault Arkana
It sets an interesting example against the SUV coupés from Mercedes-Benz, Audi or BMW that nobody thought the French could do. With a length of 4.59 meters, they present a chic exterior design and a neat interior with no frills. The workmanship makes a solid impression, the recommended equipment variant, Intens, has many amenities, including steering wheel heating, and the operation, with a mix of touch and buttons, is easier to understand than elsewhere. Unfortunately, the fan is loud, the screen sluggish and the rear-view camera, which is necessary for lack of clarity, is hazy, especially at night. Incidentally, the arcana deserves good grades. The front seats are suitable for long journeys, in the rear everything is fine up to a height of 1.80 meters. The trunk is not a loadmaster because of the sloping rear, but it is usually sufficiently receptive. Chassis and steering make their thing useful, their set-up fits into a picture that looks sportier than it drives.
We felt more comfortable in Arkana than expected. The sleek Renault will likely remain an outsider, but it’s not on every corner. The nicely prepared test car costs 37,220 euros, which is worth a second look in the competitive environment.
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