Full-hybrid engine

The Rafale’s full-hybrid engine is a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder unit that produces a total output of 200hp and 205Nm of torque. The front wheels are powered via a six-speed automatic gearbox, while the 0-62mph time is rated at 8.9 seconds. The Rafale’s top speed is 111mph. While at a standstill or at low speeds, the engine switches off for quite a subdued and relaxed drive, but once ignited again, the three-cylinder combustion unit is rather noisy.

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It hums with a loud baritone drawl that suggests more cylinders are firing than really are, but it’s not the most refined engine in the world. It is, however, more pleasant than the E-TECH Hybrid 145 engine found in the Arkana, the Symbioz and various other modern Renault products.

Plug-in hybrid Engine

The Rafale is also available with a plug-in hybrid 300hp engine in either techno esprit Alpine or Atelier Alpine trims. This three-cylinder power unit – offering an uprated 230Nm of torque – drives all four wheels of the car via a six-speed gearbox. 

Given the additional electric power supplied by the plug-in’s electric motor and bigger battery, the E-TECH 300’s acceleration time is considerably quicker than that of the full hybrid: 0-62mph in 6.4 seconds, with top speed set to 111mph. The battery itself is the same 400volt lithium ion example found in the full-hybrid, only with a far bigger capacity at 22kWh. According to Renault, the Rafale can run on electric power alone for up to 65 miles.

What’s it like to drive?

Renault makes a big noise about how this is a more dynamic alternative to other big SUVs, and in part it’s right. All but entry-level models get four-wheel steering badged 4Control that boosts agility at low speeds and stability at high speeds. It works well in the less extreme modes, helping the Rafale feel smaller than it is, but ramp it up and there’s a nervousness to the system that dents your confidence.

It’s not like you get a great sense of connection to the front tyres either, so while there’s plenty of grip, it’s not something you relish driving quickly. The hybrid powertrain doesn’t help here, feeling lazy when you stamp on the throttle and giving performance that’s adequate, but not sporting. The 300hp plug-in hybrid is noticeably faster, but is a bit inconsistent in how much pace you get when you floor it and isn’t any more fun.

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The engine doesn’t always behave how you think it will, though. Sometimes a tiny squeeze of the throttle will loudly fire the engine, whereas other times it’ll take a while to get going despite a flattened pedal. You’re best to drive it smoothly and efficiently where its low noise levels and generally smooth operation impress.

It’s therefore a shame that the Rafale doesn’t ride better. Even with the adaptive suspension of top PHEV models set to Comfort mode, there’s an underlying fidget that can irritate. Pockmarked roads exacerbate this, and larger bumps and dips generate plenty of thuds and thumps. The regular suspension on other models is even harsher, so a bit more compliance would be appreciated.