The Renault Rafale is a subcompact crossover produced by the French manufacturer Renault. It was first unveiled at the 2017 Paris Motor Show and went on sale in Europe in November 2017.
Design and Features:
- The Rafale has a sleek and modern design, with a sloping front grille, LED headlights, and a curved rear spoiler.
- The interior features a minimalist design, with a large touchscreen display and a range of comfort and convenience features, including climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 7-inch touchscreen display.
- The infotainment system is based on Renault's R-Link 2 platform, which provides seamless integration with smartphones and access to various apps and services.
Dimensions and Space:
- Length: 4.15 meters (13.6 feet)
- Width: 1.75 meters (5.7 feet)
- Height: 1.54 meters (5.0 feet)
- Wheelbase: 2.58 meters (8.5 feet)
- Boot space: 448 liters (15.8 cubic feet), expanding to 1120 liters (39.4 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded.
Engine and Performance:
- The Rafale is available with a range of efficient engines, including a 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine producing 115 horsepower and a 1.5-liter dCi diesel engine producing 90 horsepower.
- Both engines are paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Safety Features:
- The Renault Rafale features a range of advanced safety features, including:
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Lane departure warning and correction
- Traffic sign recognition
- Blind spot detection
- Rear cross-traffic alert
Trim Levels and Options:
- The Rafale is available in three trim levels: Life, Play, and GT Line.
- Each trim level offers a range of options and features, including:
- 17-inch alloy wheels (Play and GT Line)
- Leather upholstery (GT Line)
- Panoramic sunroof
- Heated seats
Sales and Reception:
- The Renault Rafale was launched in Europe with a starting price of around €15,000 (approximately $16,800 USD).
- While the car received generally positive reviews for its design, comfort, and features, it faced some criticism for its lackluster performance and handling.
Overall, the Renault Rafale is a solid option in the subcompact crossover segment, offering a range of features, good fuel economy, and comfortable ride. However, its performance and handling leave something to be desired.
