Renault launches mild‑hybrid Arkana SUV in Australia for 2026

Renault has introduced a 2026 version of its Arkana compact coupe‑SUV to the Australian market equipped with a 12 V mild‑hybrid system that adds a 3.6 kW electric motor to the turbo‑charged 1.3‑litre four‑cylinder engine. Power rises to 116 kW and torque to 270 Nm, while the 0‑100 km/h time remains 9.1 seconds. Fuel‑economy figures show the combined consumption unchanged at 5.9 L/100 km, urban use dropping slightly to 7.2 L/100 km and highway use increasing to 5.2 L/100 km, with CO₂ emissions edging up to 134 g/km.

In Australia the Arkana is offered in two trim levels: the Techno starting at AUD 41,990 (AU$500 above the previous model) and the Esprit Alpine at AUD 45,990, both available now in showrooms. A full‑hybrid version, which is sold in South Korea with a 1.6‑litre engine and a 36 kW drive motor, is not provided in Australia because Renault says it would compromise the vehicle’s value proposition.