Renault unveils the high performance version of Rafale

Renault has unveiled new details of its high-performance version of the Rafale. The Renault Rafale E-Tech 4x4 300hp provides drivers with both a combustion engine and an electric engine thanks to E-Tech plug-in hybrid 295bhp powertrain.

The plug-in hybrid powertrain of the Rafale E-Tech 4x4 300hp is based on the the E-Tech hybrid 200 powertrain. However, an electric motor is added to the rear axle, alongside a chargeable battery with a capacity of 22kWh. This enables this high-performance Rafale E-Tech 4x4 300hp to offer an electric-only range of 100km.

The Renault Rafale E-Tech 4x4 300hp is fitted with a 295bhp plug-in hybrid powertrain

Under the bonnet, the 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine is fitted with a new turbocharger which boosts its total output to 147bhp as compared to the 128bhp which is offered by the E-Tech 200hp version. The torque has also been improved, now reaching a total of 230Nm. With the improved performance, the Rafale E-Tech 4x4 300hp goes from zero to 100km/h in 6.4 seconds.

The Rafale E-Tech 4x4 300hp will be available in the 'Esprit Alpine' trim, alongside a specific 'Atelier Alpine' version. The Atelier Alpine chassis was tuned by engineers from Alpine Cars and gets an exclusive controlled damping system, specific agility control modes, alongside 21-inch wheels, alongside model-specific calibration of the ECUs controlling braking, regenerative braking, stability control and power steering.

The Rafale E-Tech 4x4 300 hp will be available in two trims: Atelier Alpine and Esprit Alpine

The Atelier Alpine trim on the Rafale E-Tech 4x4 300hp boasts a Satin Summit Blue bodywork, paired with a Starry Black floating spoiler. The wheels fitted on this trim are the 21-inch Chicane wheels with Continental tyres while the Esprit Alpine trim would be fitted with 20-inch wheels. Acting as a nod to Alpine, the interior of both trims are fitted with gain mats in the iconic blue of the arrowed A logo.

Another major difference between the trims would be the self-adjusting smart suspension system supported with a camera at the top of the windscreen. Only available on the Atelier Alpine, the system, dubbed active suspension with predictive camera, continuously adjusts damping in cases of speed bumps or obstacles on the road ahead.

The multimedia screen on the Rafale Atelier Alpine version includes a 'Chassis Control' menu, allowing drivers to adjust the 4Control Advanced settings, damping profile and rear steering angles.

Drivers are able to decide on the mode and specification they intend use from a screen fitted in the interior

The range of modes allow the drivers to customise their Rafale to best suit their requirements. All of the modes were developed by Alpine engineers, ensuring optimal configuration of the Rafale Atelier Alpine.

The Renault Rafale E-Tech 4x4 300 hp has permanent active four-wheel drive thanks to the electric motor on the rear axle. The traction of each axle is managed automatically by the E-Tech system, based on driving conditions and driving mode selected.

The predictive hybrid driving maximises the use of electrical energy while driving. Google's mapping data provides advanced information to the battery management system, maximising the use of electric power. A driving report is then available in the form of a bar chart which details consumption and distance travelled in all-electric mode.