Renault Rafale costs, pros, cons and common fixes

Production Country
The Renault Rafale full hybrid E-Tech 200 is built in Palencia, Spain, on the CMF-CD modular platform shared with the Austral and Espace.
Brief Description
The Rafale is a sleek fastback crossover combining sculpted bodywork, a high-strength grille and LED signature lighting with a panoramic Solarbay® roof. Its “OpenR” cockpit features a 12″ central touchscreen, a 12.3″ digital driver display and Google-integrated OpenR Link, all framed by premium materials. Designed for five occupants, it offers a versatile boot—from 530 to 1 600 L—while elevated seating and refined suspension deliver both comfort and poise.
2025 Full Hybrid E-Tech 200 Powertrain
Feature | Specification |
---|
Engine & Electric Motors | 1.2 L turbo three-cylinder petrol + dual e-motors |
Combined Power | 147 kW (200 hp) |
Peak Torque | 205 Nm |
Traction Battery | 2 kWh (400 V) |
Transmission | Multi-mode automatic (front-wheel drive) |
WLTP Combined Consumption | from 4.7 L/100 km |
WLTP CO₂ Emissions | from 106 g/km |
Total Range | up to 1 100 km |
Performance
Dimensions & Capacity
Specification | Measurement |
---|
Length | 4 710 mm |
Width (without mirrors) | 1 866 mm |
Width (with mirrors) | 2 085 mm |
Height | 1 613 mm |
Wheelbase | 2 738 mm |
Ground clearance | 174 mm |
Boot volume (min/max) | 530 L / 1 600 L |
Fuel tank | 55 L |
Seating / Doors | 5 / 5 |
Main Trims & Pricing
Trim | Key Features | From (€) |
---|
Techno | 12″ touchscreen, 12.3″ driver display, LED headlights, 17″ alloys, rear parking sensors | 43 700 |
Esprit Alpine | Techno equipment plus Alpine styling pack, 18″ “La Flèche” wheels, heated sports seats | 46 700 |
(Prices include VAT; registration tax and delivery fees excluded.)
Maintenance & First Service Costs (indicative)
Service / Repair | Approx. Cost (€) |
---|
1st Service (1 year or 20 000 km) | 220–270 |
2nd Service (2 years or 40 000 km) | 270–330 |
Front brake pads replacement | 240–280 |
Front discs + pads replacement | 420–540 |
Engine oil filter + air filter replacement | 90–130 |
12 V auxiliary battery replacement | 130–190 |
Single tyre replacement | 110–160 each |
4Control system check & lubrication | 160–210 |
All costs include original parts and labor; actual prices may vary by region and workshop.
Pros
Elegant fastback styling with premium finishing touches
Highly versatile cargo space (530–1 600 L)
Strong combined range (up to 1 100 km) without external charging
Engaging acceleration and refined hybrid drive
Cutting-edge interior tech and Google-integrated infotainment
Cons
Minimal true electric-only range due to small battery
Premium pricing compared to non-hybrid crossovers
Large dimensions and weight can affect urban maneuverability
Optional extras can rapidly increase the final cost
In Summary
The Renault Rafale full hybrid E-Tech 200 hp sets a new benchmark in the premium crossover segment, pairing fastback elegance and modular practicality with a self-charging hybrid system. With its generous range, refined cabin and flexible cargo capacity, it’s an ideal choice for drivers seeking a distinctive, technology-laden family car without the need for external charging.
Verdict — Renault Rafale (Model Year 2025)
Mild-Hybrid & Full-Hybrid SUV-Coupe · Power from 140 to 200 hp · Front-Wheel Drive · 7-Speed EDC Dual-Clutch Transmission
The Renault Rafale redefines the compact SUV-coupe segment, blending sporty styling, advanced tech and hybrid efficiency. Up front, Matrix LED headlights with “C”-shaped signature and a three-dimensional grille create a striking face; the sloping roofline and pronounced wheel arches emphasize its dynamic, athletic stance.
Inside, the “OpenR” cockpit centers on a 12.3″ curved display uniting digital gauges and infotainment. Premium materials, floating-style accents and piano-black trim deliver a refined atmosphere. Heated, power-adjustable front seats offer excellent support; clever storage and a surprisingly flexible cargo area (385 L expandable to 1,422 L) make it practical despite its coupe profile.
Key Technical Highlights:
Full-Hybrid E-Tech 200 hp: 1.2 L turbo-petrol + electric motor + 1.7 kWh battery, no plug-in required, up to 60% electric driving in urban use.
48 V Mild-Hybrid 140 hp: 1.3 L turbo-petrol with belt-driven starter-generator, WLTP fuel consumption 5.8–6.2 L/100 km.
7-Speed EDC Dual-Clutch Gearbox: Quick, smooth shifts.
Front-Wheel Drive: McPherson front suspension and torsion-beam rear axle.
Level-2+ ADAS: Adaptive cruise, active lane-keeping, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring.
Category | Where It Excels | Where It Holds Its Own | Where It’s Limited |
---|
Design & Styling | Exclusive coupe-SUV silhouette; distinctive Matrix LEDs | Up to 20″ wheels; chrome detailing | Rear-headroom is tighter |
Comfort & Space | Supportive, well-trimmed seats | Bi-zone climate; good sound insulation | Rear legroom is modest |
Real-World Efficiency | Frequent EV-mode urban driving | Low emissions for the segment | No external charging for full-hybrid |
Driving Dynamics | Lowered ride height; precise steering | Comfort-oriented suspension tuning | Ride can feel firm on very rough roads |
Practicality | Modular cargo 385–1,422 L; power tailgate | Smart cubby space; under-dash rails | Rear seat access is less convenient |
Infotainment & Connect | 12.3″ OpenR display with Google Built-in & OTA updates | Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | 3D maps reserved for top trims |
Safety & ADAS | Comprehensive Drive Assistance pack | 360° cameras; parking sensors | Some premium ADAS only on highest trims |
Running Costs | Reduced fuel use; “Easy Care” maintenance plans | 5-year warranty; roadside assistance | OEM parts & labor pricier at dealers |
Depreciation | Strong appeal of coupe-SUV design | Stable used-car demand | Highly competitive segment |
Who It’s For
Drivers who want a distinctive, sporty-looking SUV-coupe loaded with technology and efficient hybrid powertrains—perfect for those valuing style and sustainability in equal measure.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you need more rear-seat space or plug-in EV range, consider the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid or Cupra Formentor e-Hybrid.
Recommended Configuration
Full-Hybrid E-Tech 200 hp in RS Line S trim, with the 12.3″ OpenR display, panoramic glass roof, adaptive suspension and ADAS Plus pack—for the ultimate blend of sportiness, tech and comfort.
Official Pricing
48 V Mild-Hybrid 140 hp Zen: from € 42,000
Full-Hybrid E-Tech 200 hp Techno: from € 48,500
Full-Hybrid E-Tech 200 hp RS Line S: from € 55,200