New Renault Symbioz SUV with E-tech Hybrid Power Globally Unveiled; to Rival Nissan Qashqai

Renault has unveiled a brand-new addition to its model lineup, the Symbioz. According to the carmaker, the new SUV combines cutting-edge automotive technology, flexible interiors, and contemporary styling. Renault claims that the name of its latest SUV represents concepts of togetherness, family, and the symbiotic link between a vehicle and its occupants. Featuring the advanced E-Tech hybrid powertrain, the new Symbioz will be available in three unique variants: the techno, techno esprit Alpine, and iconic esprit Alpine. As far as Renault's ICE-powered lineup is concerned, this Nissan Qashqai-rivalling model will be positioned between the Captur and Astral SUVs. Here's all you need to know about the Symbioz.

Also Read: Renault Captur Goes Leather-free, Makes Global Debut with Bigger Infotainment Screen

Renault Symbioz SUV: Dimensions and Design

In terms of dimensions, the Symbioz measures 4,413mm in length, 1,797mm in width, and 1,575mm in height. Therefore, the car is just 100mm shorter than the Austral (4,510mm). Based on the CMF-B platform, the Symbioz looks like the recently updated Captur when it comes to the front-end design. The SUV boasts a contemporary appearance due to its arrow-shaped daytime running lights and slim LED headlights. The blanked-off grille also lends a modern touch.

When you see the model side on, any resemblance to the Captur fades. Its boxy roofline and short hood give it more of an MPV look than the typical SUV proportions of a Qashqai or Kia Sportage. The Symbioz rides on stylish 19-inch alloy wheels. Moreover, the sleek LED taillights draw attention to the back end.

Renault Symbioz SUV: Powertrain

With a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, a multimodal automatic transmission, two electric motors, and a 1.2kWh battery, the brand's E-Tech Full Hybrid 145 system will be the only available powertrain option. The combined output stands at 145bhp. The setup always starts with an all-electric mode, allowing you to go around town at modest speeds in silence. This all contributes to fuel economy. The Austral's most recent E-Tech unit, which is built around a 1.2-litre engine and a bigger battery, is not included in the Symbioz.

Renault Symbioz SUV: Interior Details

The Symbioz is unique not only because of its drivetrain but also because of its roomy cabin, which is equipped with up to 24 modern driving aids that improve passenger comfort and safety.

Moving inside, you will spot the same dashboard as the Captur, with a portrait-oriented 10.4-inch touchscreen running Renault's Google-based OpenR Link infotainment system. With the rear seats sliding 160mm back, the SUV can provide up to 221mm of knee room and increase its boot capacity from 492 litres to an impressive 624 litres, which increases to 1,582 litres when the 60:40 split seats are folded flat. The top-of-the-line model has a Solarbay sunroof that replaces a blind with automatically tinting electrochromic glass. As of now, the electric Scenic is the only Renault vehicle that offers this feature. 

Also Read: Nissan-Renault Alliance to Launch 5-seater & 7-seater New SUVs in India, Here's What We Know So Far

Renault Symbioz SUV: Expected Price and Bookings

Interested customers can place bookings for the hybrid SUV in July this year. Although the automaker has not yet announced the price, expect the Symbioz to carry a starting price of around £30,000 (about Rs 31.42 lakh).