Australia’s Renault Arkana detailed

An upgraded 2021 Renault Arkana has been revealed in Europe, previewing the version of the small coupe-like SUV that will replace the Kadjar in Australia in mid-2021.

All-new to Australia, the Renault Arkana will be positioned between the second-generation Captur baby SUV, which arrives here in February, and the facelifted Koleos mid-sizer that follows a month later.

While electrified powertrains are set to be offered in the Arkana overseas, including a 1.3-litre four-cylinder mild-hybrid and a 1.6-litre hybrid, Renault Australia says the new small crossover will be offered with petrol power only when it reaches Oz.

That engine, shared with the Captur, is a 104kW/260Nm 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch auto.

Measuring up at 4568mm in length, the Arkana won’t be much longer than the French car-maker’s Megane hatchback, which will be axed except for a facelifted Megane RS hot hatch range also due here in March 2021.

However, the Arkana will bring a big 513-litre boot, as well as rear seats that fold completely flat for more storage.

Inside the cabin, the 2021 Renault Arkana brings either a 7.0-inch horizontal or 9.3-inch portrait-style infotainment unit, dependent on trim level. That’s accompanied by a 4.2- 7.0- or 10-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver.

Standard safety gear includes autonomous emergency braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance and traffic sign recognition.

Other features include wireless phone charging, four USB outlets, a 360-degree camera and multiple drive modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport and customisable My Sense.

A sportier Renault Arkana RS Line is also reportedly in the works and should bring sportier interior and exterior styling plus dual chrome exhaust outlets and RS Line badging, but it probably won’t be available Down Under.

Stay tuned for local pricing and spec details closer to the Arkana’s Aussie arrival in 2021.