Renault Rafale: prices, spec and CO2 emissions

Renault has started accepting orders for the Rafale, its new hybrid-powered coupe SUV.

As a close relation to the Austral, the Rafale further reinforces Renault's intention to move into premium segments.

Prices for the new model start at £38,195.

The Rafale competes with the Audi Q5 Sportback as well as the surge of upmarket entrants from other French brands, including the Citroen C5 X and Peugeot 408.

It has similar dimensions to the Mercedes GLC Coupe and a boot capacity of up to 647 litres, which is around 150 litres more than a Nissan Qashqai.

Two hybrid powertrains will be available. The first is a 200PS hybrid unit, carried over from the Austral, which is available to order now. There is also a 300PS plug-in hybrid version with all-wheel-drive.

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The Rafale differs from Renault's current design language, with a more angular and aggressive look. It's interior features the twin-screen OpenR digital cockpit, that debuted on the Megane E-Tech.

A range of upmarket features are available, including a Harman Kardon sound system and a full length glass roof which features special glass that can be darkened and the touch of a button.

Renault states that the Rafale offers a high level of driving pleasure, with steering and suspension settings to promote sporty driving. Like the Austral, the Rafale is also equipped with a four-wheel steering system for enhanced dynamics and easier manoeuvrability.

The 200PS E-Tech hybrid powertrain mates a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with two electric motors and a small battery. It achieves CO2 emissions of 105-107g/km and promises 60mpg.

The plug-in hybrid will feature an additional electric motor on the rear axle, providing all-wheel-drive and boosting power to 300PS. The battery has a 22kWh capacity, giving a 65-mile zero-emission range.

Three versions make up the Renault Rafale range, starting with the Techno trim priced at £38,195. Its standard specification includes 20-inch alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitor, LED front and rear lights, a 12-inch central touchcreen, wireless phone charger, dual-zone climate control, front and rear park assist, and a rear-view camera.

The Techno Esprit Alpine (£42,195) brings Esprit Alpine exterior styling, alcantara upholstery, matrix LED headlights, heated and electrically adjustable front seats, a heated windscreen, heated steering wheel, head-up display and 4Control Advanced four-wheel steering.

The range-topping Iconic Esprit Alpine (£44,695) adds the Solarbay panoramic sunroof, electric folding wing mirrors with memory and auto-tilt when reversing, 12 speaker Harman Kardon audio system and 360-degree camera.

Plug-in hybrid models are priced from £45,695 and come in Techno Esprit Alpine or Atelier Alpine (£49,695) trim grades.