Renault Arkana gains mild-hybrid power for 2026

Renault Australia has confirmed pricing and specifications for the updated MY26 Arkana, which gains mild-hybrid assistance, a recalibrated dual-clutch automatic transmission and a simplified two-variant line-up.

The range opens with the Arkana Techno at $41,990 before on-road costs, while the higher-specification Esprit Alpine is priced from $45,990 plus on-road costs.

Both versions use a turbocharged 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 116kW and 270Nm, supported by a 12-volt mild-hybrid system and 3.6kW electric motor. Drive is sent through a revised dual-clutch automatic transmission, which Renault says has been recalibrated for smoother operation.

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Combined fuel consumption is listed at 5.9 litres per 100km under ADR81/02 testing, while the powertrain meets Euro 6 emissions requirements.

The introduction of a 12-volt mild-hybrid system is aimed more at improving performance than cutting fuel bills. Although the electric motor provides additional assistance during acceleration, the updated Arkana retains the same official combined fuel consumption rating of 5.9L/100km as its predecessor, meaning buyers are unlikely to see significant efficiency gains from the new technology.

The Arkana retains its coupe-style SUV body and offers 485 litres of luggage space with the rear seats in place. Folding the 60:40-split rear bench expands capacity to 1268 litres.

Standard equipment on the Techno includes 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and tail-lights, a power tailgate, keyless entry and start, heated and electrically adjustable front seats, climate-control air-conditioning and eight selectable ambient-lighting colours.

Its cabin also receives a 9.3-inch central touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital instrument display, built-in satellite navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger and a six-speaker Arkamys audio system.

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Safety equipment includes autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane-keeping and lane-centring assistance, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and driver-attention monitoring. A 360-degree camera, front, rear and side parking sensors, and hands-free parking assistance are also standard.

The Esprit Alpine adds 19-inch alloy wheels, black exterior detailing, a sunroof, black suede-style upholstery, a heated steering wheel and Alpine-specific stitching and trim. It also upgrades to an eight-speaker Bose audio system with a subwoofer.

Metallic paint costs $900, while a black roof adds $600. Satin Grey matte paint is restricted to the Esprit Alpine and costs $1150. The sunroof is a $1500 option on the Techno.

The MY26 Arkana is covered by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, with servicing required every 12 months or 30,000km.

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Specs