renault rafale
Used Car Review

Overview

Can a French manufacturer truly challenge the German dominance in the premium SUV market? The Renault Rafale suggests the answer might be yes. This stylish coupe SUV represents Renault’s most ambitious attempt yet to attract buyers seeking premium quality without the premium price tag.

The Rafale’s greatest strength lies in its sophisticated hybrid powertrains, which deliver impressive fuel economy while maintaining smooth, refined performance. The interior feels genuinely upmarket, with quality materials and thoughtful design that rivals more expensive German alternatives. Build quality represents a significant step forward for the French brand, creating a cabin environment that feels both premium and practical.

From a practical standpoint, the Rafale strikes a clever balance between style and functionality. The 530-litre boot provides adequate space for family needs, while the rear seats offer generous room for passengers. The sloping roofline does compromise headroom slightly, but this trade-off delivers the distinctive coupe styling that sets it apart from conventional SUVs.

Perhaps most importantly, the Rafale offers genuine value for money in a segment where prices can quickly escalate. Combined with competitive running costs and reasonable insurance groupings, it presents a compelling case for buyers who want premium SUV benefits without stretching their budget. For discerning families, it deserves serious consideration.

What's the Renault Rafale Like to Drive?

Under the bonnet, the Rafale offers a range of efficient powertrains designed for modern driving needs. The entry level mild hybrid system combines a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine with electric assistance for improved fuel economy.

The range topping E-Tech hybrid delivers impressive performance figures while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. This sophisticated system seamlessly blends petrol and electric power for smooth, refined driving in urban environments.

On the road, the Rafale feels composed and confident. The suspension setup strikes a good balance between comfort and control, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer journeys across the UK.

The steering is well weighted and provides decent feedback for a car of this size. While it won’t set your pulse racing like some sports cars, the Rafale offers a pleasant and engaging driving experience.

As a premium SUV, the Rafale prioritises comfort over outright performance. The result is a car that feels sophisticated and refined rather than aggressive or sporty.

Inside the Renault Rafale: Comfort & Features

Step inside the Rafale and you’ll find a well appointed cabin that rivals premium German competitors. The materials feel substantial and the build quality represents a significant step forward for Renault.

The seats offer excellent support for long journeys, with multiple adjustment options and heating functionality on higher trim levels. The driving position is commanding yet comfortable, with good visibility in most directions.

Rear passengers benefit from generous legroom and headroom, though the sloping roofline does compromise space slightly compared to conventional SUVs. The middle seat is best reserved for shorter journeys due to the raised floor tunnel.

Climate control keeps the cabin comfortable in all weather conditions, while the optional panoramic sunroof adds an airy feel to the interior space. Sound insulation is impressive, creating a serene environment at motorway speeds.

Storage solutions are well thought out, with plenty of cubby holes and cup holders throughout the cabin. The door bins are large enough for water bottles and other essentials.

The rafale excels with exhilarating performance matched by refined comfort, creating a driving experience that exceeds expectations in every way.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Renault Rafale?

The Rafale delivers competitive running costs thanks to its efficient hybrid powertrains and reasonable insurance groupings. Fuel economy figures are impressive, particularly in urban driving where the electric motor provides most assistance.

Company car drivers will appreciate the low CO2 emissions, which translate to attractive benefit in kind tax rates. Private buyers can explore various car finance options to spread the cost.

Servicing costs should prove reasonable through Renault’s UK dealer network. The brand offers competitive service packages that provide peace of mind for the first few years of ownership.

Insurance premiums will vary depending on the specific model and your personal circumstances. The Rafale’s safety equipment and security features should help keep costs manageable compared to some premium alternatives.

Depreciation rates are expected to be competitive within the coupe SUV segment, though German rivals may hold their value slightly better in the long term.

Is the Renault Rafale Practical for Everyday Use?

Boot space in the Rafale is respectable at 530 litres with the rear seats in place. The loading lip is reasonably low, making it easy to load heavy items without straining your back.

With the rear seats folded, cargo capacity increases to over 1,400 litres. The seats fold completely flat, creating a useful load area for larger items like furniture or sports equipment.

Rear door openings are wide enough for easy access, though the sloping roofline does require taller passengers to duck slightly when entering. Child seats fit well in the rear, with ISOFIX mounting points as standard.

The front cabin offers good storage for everyday items, with door pockets large enough for water bottles and a useful centre console box. Cup holders are well positioned and secure.

Those considering used Renault cars will find the Rafale offers good practicality for a coupe SUV, though conventional SUVs provide more outright space.

The Renault Rafale successfully combines French style with premium SUV practicality. Its competitive pricing, generous equipment levels, and efficient hybrid powertrains make it an attractive alternative to German rivals.

While it may not have the ultimate prestige of some competitors, the Rafale offers genuine quality and value that will appeal to discerning UK buyers. The interior feels premium, the technology is up to date, and the overall package represents excellent value for money.

For families seeking a stylish and practical SUV without the premium price tag, the Rafale deserves serious consideration. It proves that you don’t need a German badge to enjoy premium SUV luxury.