Renault Rafale Review 2024

Due to arrive in 2024, the Renault Rafale boasts a distinctive design, accentuated by its stylish coupe-like rear end. It is based on the Renault Austral. 

It is setting its sights on competitors such as the Peugeot 408, Citroen C5 X and Cupra Formentor. Furthermore, it seeks to challenge premium models like the Audi Q5 Sportback and BMW X4.

To further ignite excitement, a high-performance 300ps 4x4 variant of the Renault Rafale is planned, adding another dimension to the top of the range while strengthening its ties to the sporty Alpine brand. The name "Rafale," pronounced as 'ra-fal,' pays homage to a famous French fighter jet, embodying the spirit of agility and performance.

The Renault Rafale is scheduled to hit the market in Spring 2024, with reservations likely to open later this year or in early 2024. As a more premium offering than the Austral, which starts at just under £35,000, the Rafale is expected to command a starting price of upwards of £40,000.

The Renault Rafale captivates with its stunning SUV coupe design, characterized by a sleek profile and a rear end that gracefully descends.

At the front, high-tech LED lights create a distinctive pattern when in motion, while the 3D grille features a mesmerizing constellation of small diamonds, ingeniously crafted using AI technology. Gloss black contrast lower cladding adds to its SUV charm, and the wider track and available 20-inch alloys lend a sporty stance.

The interior of the Renault Rafale is both technologically advanced and thoughtfully designed. A Renault OpenR digital cockpit features two adjacent screens arranged in an L-shape, with a 12.3-inch driver display and a portrait-style 12.0-inch center screen.

Leveraging the Google ecosystem, the Rafale offers Google Maps, Google Assistant, and up to 35 apps from the Google Play store, in addition to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The new Alcantara-clad seats provide ample side support and a distinct 'GT' feel.

Incorporating unique materials like dyed cork and slate, the Rafale exudes a sense of luxury. The Alpine trim showcases slate elements on the dashboard and hand rest, while the Techno trim features cork on the dashboard for an upscale effect.

A standout feature is the massive 1470mm by 1117mm Solarbay panoramic glass roof, equipped with AmpliSky 'smart glass' technology that allows sections to darken individually at the touch of a button.

Passenger space in the Renault Rafale is generous, with 302mm of knee room in the rear, making it ideal for young adults. The rear center armrest includes two USB power outlets, ample stowage space for tablets and smartphones, and foldout screen stands for added convenience. Additionally, the SUV boasts a commodious 647-litre boot, ensuring ample storage capacity for various needs.

In terms of performance, the Renault Rafale is likely to be offered in E-Tech full hybrid guise, similar to the Renault Austral.

The E-Tech full hybrid 200 model combines a 130PS 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine with two electric motors, delivering a combined 200ps power output. It aims to achieve best-in-class fuel economy, offering an average of 60.1mpg and CO2 emissions from 105g/km, providing an impressive range of up to 683 miles on a full tank of fuel.

Additionally, the Renault Rafale will later introduce the E-Tech 4x4 300ps variant, a high-performance model with an extra electric motor on the rear axle. It will be available in plug-in hybrid form, offering an EV range of around 30-40 miles. The sporty Rafale version will feature a 4Control Advanced four-wheel-drive system with four-wheel steering, enhancing stability at higher speeds and maneuverability at lower speeds.

Built on the CMF-CD platform shared with the Renault Austral, the new Renault Rafale promises to deliver a thrilling driving experience, combining agility, performance, and luxury to elevate Renault's model range to new heights in 2024.