Renault Unveils Russian-Built Crossover Model

Renault SA has unveiled the production version of the Arkana, a small SUV/crossover vehicle it developed primarily for the Russian market.

The vehicle marks Renault’s determination to replace rebadged versions of its Dacia brand vehicles with its own models.

Last year, Renault’s retail sales in Russia were flat at 137,100 units according to the Moscow-based Assn. of European Businesses. Volume through the first four months of 2019 fell 7% to 41,900 units.

Renault presented the Arkana in concept form at the Moscow auto show a year ago. The company touts the vehicle as a sporty, coupelike SUV with true off-road capabilities. The vehicle is being produced by Renault’s factory near Moscow and will go on sale in Russia this summer.

The Arkana rides on the same platform that carries the Dacia Duster and Renault Kaptur compact SUVs. Renault’s Moscow plant currently produces both models.

The new Arkana will debut with an 8-inch touchscreen inside that supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Yandex Auto, plus apps that enable the operator to customize those interfaces. Heated seats and steering wheel are standard. Oher accessories include a Bose audio system. Drivers can choose among three driving modes (Eco, Sport and My Sense) and eight ambient lighting colors.

The SUV will be fitted with 17-inch wheels and boasts a 208-mm (8.2-inch) ground clearance and attack and departure angles of 18° and 25°, respectively. All models will be powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that delivers 150 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive will be optional.

Renault also plans to introduce a variant of the Arkana in South Korea in the first half of 2020. That model will be produced by Renault Samsung Motors Co. in Busan. The company showed the vehicle in concept form as the XM3 Inspire at the Seoul auto show in March.