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Renault Arkana: refresh, hybrids and trims
The Renault Arkana is a coupe-style SUV sold in Europe since 2021. We look at how the cars differ before and after the 2023 refresh, how mild and full hybrids compare, which trims are most common and what to check when buying used.
Arkana in brief
The European Arkana is built once on the CMF-B platform, like the Renault Clio and Captur. It's around 4.6m long, with a sloping, coupe-like rear and a larger-than-usual boot shape that promises generous luggage space — around 500 litres in the petrol version, slightly less in the hybrid. All European Arkana models are front-wheel drive.
It's important not to confuse: the Arkana previously made for the Russian market was a different car, built on a different platform. Arkana sold in Europe are made in South Korea, and most used examples in the Lithuanian market are imported from Western Europe.
Before and after the refresh — what's changed
2021–2023 cars had the previous Renault badge and Zen, Intens and R.S. Line trims (2022 saw names start to change to evolution, techno and others). This is the cheapest way to buy an Arkana, and the tech is essentially the same as in later cars.
The 2023 refreshed Arkana gets a new front end with a new Renault badge, updated headlights and interior details, while the sporty-looking version is called esprit Alpine. Refreshed cars are more likely to be found with the full hybrid E-Tech and more driver assistance systems.
Engines and gearboxes
The base petrol engine is the 1.3 TCe turbo with a 12 V mild hybrid system, offering around 140 or 160 hp. It pairs with a 7-speed dual-clutch EDC automatic gearbox. The European Arkana does not have a diesel version.
The E-Tech full hybrid (around 145 hp) combines a 1.6 petrol engine with two electric motors and Renault's unique multimode gearbox without a traditional clutch. In the city, it often runs on electric power and is the most economical, but under acceleration, the engine is more audible than in a conventional car.
If you do a lot of city driving, opt for the E-Tech hybrid; if you mostly drive out of town, the 1.3 TCe will often be sufficient and a simpler choice.
What to check when buying a used Arkana
During the test drive, check the movement from a standstill and slow driving in traffic: the EDC gearbox should not hesitate, and the hybrid gearbox should not jolt when shifting. Ask if software updates have been performed, and check the VIN code to ensure there are no outstanding recall actions.
Check the multimedia system, rear-view camera, and driver assistance systems—older models may have had issues with electronics and software glitches. Due to the sloping rear, also assess rear visibility and headroom for rear passengers.
Check the mileage against service records, and the body for painted parts. If the car was company-owned or rented, ask who maintained it and how.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trims found in Europe.
Zen
2021–2022The base trim for early years.
- LED headlights
- Light-alloy wheels
- Often — parking sensors and cruise control
Intens
2021–2022The most popular choice with more comfort features.
- Larger multimedia screen
- Digital instrument cluster
- Often — rear-view camera and automatic climate control
R.S. Line
2021–2023Sporty-looking version without a sporty engine.
- Sporty bumpers and larger wheels
- Sportier interior trim
- Often — more driver-assistance systems
evolution
From around 2022Base trim for newer cars.
- LED headlights
- Multimedia system with phone connectivity
- Often — parking sensors
techno
From around 2022Mid-range trim with a good balance of price and features.
- Larger alloy wheels
- Larger multimedia screen
- Often — rear-view camera and adaptive cruise control
esprit Alpine
Post-2023 faceliftThe sportiest-looking facelifted Arkana version.
- Alpine-style exterior and interior details
- Largest alloy wheels
- Often — most driver-assistance systems
Comparison of updated Arkana trims
| evolution | techno | esprit Alpine | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For a smaller budget | Everyday comfort | Sporty looks |
| Wheels (most often) | 17 col. | 18 col. | 18–19 col. |
| Interior | Standard | Better trim, larger screen | Sportier trim |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€€ |
For most buyers, the techno trim is the best choice, while city drivers should opt for the E-Tech hybrid. The Esprit Alpine is worth considering for its styling and features, but not for its extra power.
Pros
- Distinctive coupe-like styling
- Spacious boot for its class
- Efficient E-Tech hybrid in the city
- Plenty of kit even in mid-range trims
Cons
- Limited rear visibility and less headroom for rear passengers
- No four-wheel drive
- The gearbox can be sluggish at low speeds
Frequently asked questions
How does the Renault Arkana differ from the Captur?
The Arkana is built on the same platform as the Captur but is longer, with a coupe-like rear and a larger boot. The Captur is shorter, has a higher roof and is more practical in the city.
Which Arkana engine should you choose?
For city drivers, the E-Tech hybrid is the most economical choice. For those who mostly drive out of town, the 1.3 TCe mild hybrid is often sufficient, as it has a simpler design.
Does the Arkana have four-wheel drive?
No — the Arkana sold in Europe has front-wheel drive only. If you need 4x4, it's worth looking at other SUVs.
Is the European Arkana the same car as the Russian-made Arkana?
No. The Russian-market Arkana built on a different platform, differing in its technology and equipment. When buying an imported car, it's worth ensuring that it's the European version.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
