Renault continues to innovate in the SUV market by introducing the Renault Symbioz. This hybrid vehicle represents a significant leap in engineering and design, tailored to meet the rising demand for eco-friendly transport solutions. Let’s explore the finer details of the Symbioz, examining its standout features and why it carves a niche in the competitive mid-sized SUV sector.
A Bold Step in Hybrid Technology
The Renault Symbioz is not just another addition to the crowded SUV marketplace; it marks a bold entry into hybrid technology. Situated firmly within the C-segment, which accounts for about 60% of vehicle sales in the UK, this mid-sized SUV sets out to rival established competitors like the Nissan Qashqai.
Greek Roots: The Name Explained
The name ‘Symbioz’ comes from the Ancient Greek term ‘symbiosis’ which translates to ‘living together’. This concept is important to the philosophy behind the vehicle’s design, which carefully combines elements of power with those of efficiency. Renault’s goal is to develop a vehicle that feels both familiar to users and yet offers innovative features that stand out in today’s market.
The design of the Symbioz strives to find the perfect harmony between practicality, ensuring that it meets everyday needs, and incorporating cutting-edge technology that represents the future of driving. This balance is essential for creating a vehicle that can adapt to the lifestyles of its drivers while also pushing the boundaries of what modern vehicles can achieve.
Design and Dimensions
Spacious Yet Sleek
At a length of 4.4 metres, the Symbioz comfortably fits into the mid-sized SUV category while maintaining a sleek profile, thanks to its modest roof height. The distinctive styling, particularly at the front and rear, reflects Renault’s contemporary design language adopted in their recent models.
Exterior Features
- Aero-Optimised Design: The vehicle is crafted for enhanced aerodynamics, promoting better fuel efficiency.
- Eye-Catching Features: Bold lines and modern lighting create a sporty yet sophisticated aesthetic.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the Hood: HYBRID Power
The Renault Symbioz is equipped with a hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with two electric motors and a 1.2kWh battery. This setup delivers an impressive 145 horsepower and 250Nm of torque. The smooth integration of these power sources enables acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in a respectable 10.6 seconds.
Fuel Economy and Emissions
One of the most appealing aspects of the Symbioz is its exceptional fuel economy, certified at over 60mpg by WLTP standards. This translates into potential fuel savings of up to 20% compared to traditional petrol vehicles, making the Symbioz a smart choice for environmentally conscious drivers who also value cost-effectiveness.
E-Save Feature
The innovative ‘E-save’ button allows drivers to conserve up to 40% of the battery’s capacity for later use, ensuring electric power is readily available when needed. This feature not only extends the car’s electric range but also allows the driver to strategically save energy for specific driving conditions, thereby maximizing the car’s energy efficiency.
Interior Comfort and Features
Spacious Cabin Design
The interior of the Symbioz encapsulates classic SUV characteristics with a modern twist. The rear seat bench can slide up to 16cm, increasing boot space from 492 litres to a remarkable 624 litres, expanding to a maximum of 1582 litres with the seats folded down.
Boot Specifications
- Usable Width: A generous 1 metre provides practical loading capabilities.
- Flat Floor: This design enhances accessibility, simplifying the process of loading and unloading gear.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every Symbioz model features a 10.4-inch OpenR Link multimedia system alongside a horizontal 10.25-inch driver’s display. Maps remain constantly updated thanks to a partnership with Google, while Google Assistant supports voice activation for various functions.
Premium Features in Higher Trims
In the Iconic Esprit Alpine Grade, notable features include:
- 360-degree camera
- Hands-free parking
- Harman Kardon audio system
- Solarbay sunroof
The unique Solarbay sunroof uses liquid crystals to adjust transparency, offering superior interior headroom to traditional designs.
Safety and Driver Assistance
My Safety Shield
Renault puts a great deal of importance on safety, demonstrating this commitment through their innovative system known as ‘My Safety Shield’. This system offers an impressive range of driver assistance features, with as many as 24 different options available across various models in their line-up. These features are designed to enhance the safety of both the driver and passengers while on the road.
Some of the key components included in this advanced safety system are:
- Blind Spot Warning
- Active Rear Braking: This critical feature enhances safety during reversing.
Customisable Warning Sounds
The ‘My Safety Switch’ feature enables users to customise warning systems to enhance driver comfort and reduce distractions.
Driving Experience
Comfortable and Intuitive Driving
The driving position in the Symbioz is exceptionally comfortable, and the vertical infotainment screen is easily accessible. The vehicle seamlessly transitions between electric and petrol power. While some growls may be noticeable during hard acceleration, this trait diminishes under normal driving conditions.
Driving Modes Overview
Experience the symbiosis of handling with various driving modes:
- Normal
- Eco
- Sport
Each mode is visually represented through the instrument display, with colours changing from blue to green to red.
City and Country: A Versatile Companion
City Handling
The Symbioz truly excels in urban environments. It predominantly operates in electric mode, ensuring a quiet, smooth driving experience ideal for city living.
Country Performance
On open roads, it delivers excellent ride comfort and instils confidence in corners. While not as agile as a sports car, it performs admirably and has a composed feel.
Soundscapes and Overall Ambiance
The vehicle features five unique ambient sounds created by French electronic music icon Jean-Michel Jarre. These sounds create a distinctive atmosphere while cruising, particularly at lower speeds.
The Well-Rounded SUV
The Renault Symbioz is a versatile SUV that can adapt to various driving conditions. Whether you’re navigating the city streets or cruising on open roads, the Symbioz delivers a comfortable and confident driving experience. It may not redefine the SUV category, but it certainly offers a reliable blend of efficiency, comfort, and modern technology, making it a well-rounded choice for a wide range of drivers.
FAQs
1. What powertrain does the Renault Symbioz use?
The Symbioz features a 1.6-litre petrol engine with two electric motors and a 1.2kWh battery.
2. How fuel-efficient is the Renault Symbioz?
It boasts a WLTP-certified fuel efficiency of over 60mpg.
3. What are the key features of the Symbioz interior?
Notable features include a sliding rear bench, a spacious boot, and a modern infotainment system with voice activation.
4. How does the Symbioz perform in different driving conditions?
It performs well in urban settings, predominantly using electric mode, while offering comfort and confidence on open roads.
5. When will the Renault Symbioz be available for lease from FVL?
The Renault Symbioz has various trim levels starting from £219 pm for the Techno.
**Images created by FLUXAi , – Driving descriptions supplied by various testers
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