2024 Renault Arkana Zen: Quick review

With the Arkana face-lifted arriving imminently, with a hybrid option likely, we take a look at the current generation offering until the switch across.

Future revisions will add Renault’s new logo, an updated grille, black accents replacing chrome, a minor update to its LED tail-light signature, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Until this, let's check out whats available today at Renault.

The Renault Arkana is an SUV coupe introduced to Australia by the French manufacturer in August 2021, shortly after the retirement of the Kadjar.

Although not a top-ten player for sales volume, Renault Australia has well-known models such as the Megane RS, Captur and Koleos in the passenger car and SUV segments. Additionally, Renault offers commercial vehicles like the Kangoo and Trafic, which are well-regarded for their reliability and practicality in professional settings.

One of the standout features of the Arkana is its coupe-like silhouette, which sets it apart from traditional SUVs in its class, with a sporty. This distinctive design not only gives the Arkana a sporty and dynamic appearance but also enhances its aerodynamic efficiency.

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Renault Arkana Intens variant shows: difference includes wheel design

Pricing and features

Starting off the Arkana range, the Zen is priced at $37,500 before on-road costs.

Its exterior is characterised by a bold front fascia, sleek lines, and a dynamic silhouette that differentiates it from traditional SUVs. Inside, the Arkana Zen provides a sporty and edgy cabin, with quality materials and a straighforward traditional layout designed for ease of use.

A 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine powers each variant in the line-up, which outputs 115kW and 262Nm, using a quoted 6L/100km on a combined cycle.

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2024 Arkana Zen key features:

• 17-inch alloy wheels
• 4.2-inch colour driver display
• 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Wireless charger
• Automatic climate control
• Adaptive cruise control
• Easy park assist
• Electric park brake
• Auto dimming rear view mirror
• Black synthetic leather upholstery
• Heated leather steering wheel
• Paddle shifters
• Dual chrome exhaust tips

All five metallic colours come as a $750 extra, besides solid white which is free of charge, but also consequently not as cool as Zanzibar Blue.

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Renault Arkana Intens model shown: differences include portrait style, larger screen

Safety

The 2024 Arkana range is covered by a five-star ANCAP rating, applicable to all variants built from July 2021.

The small SUV scored an impressive 96% for adult occupant protection, and 85% for child occupant protection.

All variants are equipped with:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Active Emergency Braking System
• Anti-lock Braking System
• Emergency Brake Assist
• Forward Collision Warning system
• Lane Departure Warning
• Lane Keep Assist
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• Blind spot warning
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Hill Start Assist
• Tyre pressure monitor

Only Intens and R.S. Line models add Rear Cross Traffic Alert as standard.

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Key rivals

With its design the Arkana competes with the likes of pricier but equally sleek coupe styled competitors such as:

• BMW X2
• Audi Q3 Sportback

However at its price point is is comparable to certain trims from the likes of:

• Mazda CX-30
• Toyota C-HR
• Honda HR-V

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Should I put it on my shortlist?

Despite Renault's reputation for producing engaging hot hatches, the Arkana elevates the driving experience even further, partially owing to its streamlined shape, which serves purposes beyond mere aesthetics.

The Arkana proves to be a versatile SUV as well, striking a fine balance between practicality and driving pleasure. This could position it favourably in the Australian market, especially the Intens model, which offers additional features over the Zen, positioning it as a particularly appealing choice in the lineup.