Renault Arkana
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a stylish SUV that breaks the mould? The Renault Arkana might be exactly what you’re after. This distinctive coupe-SUV combines the practicality of a crossover with the sleek lines of a sports car, creating something genuinely different in the family SUV market. It’s the car for people who want to stand out from the crowd without sacrificing everyday usability.

From the moment you see it, the Arkana makes a statement. Its swooping roofline and bold front grille give it a presence that rivals like the Nissan Qashqai or Kia Sportage simply can’t match. But the appeal goes beyond just looks. Step inside and you’ll find a modern, well equipped interior that feels more premium than the price tag suggests. The dashboard is clean and contemporary, loaded with the latest tech features you’d expect from a modern SUV.

Driving the Arkana reveals its balanced character. The available engines deliver good fuel economy and reasonable performance, making it suitable for everything from city commutes to family holidays. It handles predictably and rides comfortably, prioritising refinement over sportiness. While it may not be the most exciting SUV to drive, it excels at being a stylish, practical, and affordable family car that genuinely looks different from everything else on the road.

What's the Renault Arkana Like to Drive?

The Renault Arkana focuses on efficiency and refinement rather than outright performance. The engine range typically includes a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol unit producing around 140 horsepower, plus a hybrid option combining a 1.6-litre petrol engine with electric assistance for approximately 145 horsepower total. The standard petrol engine provides adequate acceleration, reaching 60 mph in around 9.8 seconds, while the hybrid version offers slightly quicker acceleration and notably better fuel economy. Both engines are smooth and quiet, making the Arkana a relaxing companion on longer journeys.

Where the Arkana really shines is in its driving manners. The steering is light at parking speeds but weights up nicely at motorway pace, giving you confidence on twisty roads. The suspension setup strikes a good balance between comfort and control. It soaks up most road imperfections well, keeping passengers comfortable, while still providing enough feedback to make the driving experience engaging. This makes it an excellent choice for families who want a stylish crossover that’s easy and pleasant to drive every day.

How Comfortable Is the Renault Arkana?

Open the door and you’ll immediately notice the Arkana’s well designed cabin. The dashboard features a modern layout with an 8.7-inch touchscreen taking centre stage, running Renault’s latest infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The materials feel solid for the price point, with soft-touch plastics in key areas and attractive trim details throughout. The driving position is excellent, with good visibility and plenty of adjustment in the seat and steering wheel to find your perfect setup.

The front seats are comfortable and supportive, easily handling longer journeys without causing fatigue. Passenger space is generous up front, and the cabin remains pleasantly quiet at motorway speeds thanks to good insulation. Rear seat space is reasonable for adults, though the sloping roofline does impact headroom slightly for taller passengers. The interior tech is intuitive to use, with clear graphics and responsive controls. Standard equipment levels are generous, including dual-zone climate control, cruise control, and a good selection of safety features that help justify the Arkana’s position as a premium family SUV option.

The Renault Arkana succeeds in its mission to offer something genuinely different in the competitive family SUV market. Its distinctive coupe-SUV styling sets it apart from more conventional rivals, while the well equipped interior and efficient engines make it a sensible everyday choice. The hybrid option delivers excellent fuel economy, and the overall package represents strong value for money. The trade-offs are relatively minor. Rear headroom is compromised compared to boxier SUVs, and the driving experience prioritises comfort over excitement. However, these are conscious design choices that most buyers will accept in exchange for the Arkana’s standout looks and competitive pricing. If you want a family SUV that looks different from everything else in the school car park, the Arkana delivers on that promise while still being thoroughly practical for daily use.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Renault Arkana?

The Arkana delivers impressive running costs that make it an attractive proposition for families. Fuel economy is a particular highlight, with the standard petrol engine achieving around 45 mpg in real world driving, while the hybrid version can exceed 55 mpg with careful driving. Insurance groups are reasonable for the class, typically falling in groups 15-18 depending on the exact specification. Service intervals are sensible, and Renault’s dealer network provides good coverage across the UK.

The initial purchase price positions the Arkana competitively against rivals, often undercutting the Ford Focus and similar family SUVs by several thousand pounds. This strong value proposition extends to finance options, with competitive monthly payments available through various car finance deals. Depreciation rates are moderate, helped by the Arkana’s distinctive styling which maintains its appeal over time. Overall running costs are well controlled, making it an economical choice for families who want style and practicality without breaking the bank.

Is the Renault Arkana Practical for Everyday Use?

For a stylish SUV, the Arkana proves surprisingly practical. The 513-litre boot is a decent size for the class, easily accommodating the weekly shop or holiday luggage for a family of four. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo space further, and the loading lip is at a comfortable height. Inside the cabin, you’ll find useful storage spots including a good sized glovebox, door pockets, and cup holders throughout.

Where the Arkana shows some limitations is in rear passenger space, particularly headroom due to that distinctive sloping roofline. It’s perfectly fine for children and most adults on shorter trips, but taller passengers might find it tight on longer journeys. For most families, though, the Arkana hits the sweet spot between style and functionality. Its compact exterior dimensions make it easy to park and manoeuvre in town, while still offering enough space for everyday family life. It’s an ideal choice for couples or small families who prioritise distinctive looks and don’t need maximum interior space, offering good practicality compared to other used Renault cars.

The Renault Arkana carves out its own niche in the crowded SUV market by prioritising style without compromising on practicality. It successfully combines eye-catching coupe-SUV looks with efficient engines, a well equipped interior, and competitive running costs. The hybrid powertrain option delivers particularly impressive fuel economy, making it an excellent choice for cost-conscious families.

You choose the Arkana because you want to drive something different. Its distinctive silhouette and modern interior make every journey feel special, while the practical considerations of boot space, fuel economy, and reliability ensure it works as a sensible family car. If you’re looking for a SUV that stands out from the crowd while still delivering on the everyday essentials, especially considering cars under £10,000 for excellent value options, the Arkana should be high on your shortlist.