RENAULT ARKANA

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BMW X2

Differences in design between coupes and SUVs

Let’s compare the compact coupe SUV “Renault Arkana” with the “BMW X2.” The Renault Arkana is characterized by its sporty yet elegant style with curved surfaces. In addition to the elegant design that flows from the front to the rear via the roofline, the curved LED taillight design that spreads out horizontally also creates a French car-like feel.

On the other hand, the BMW X2’s exterior has a sculpted design that exudes a powerful atmosphere. It is based on the hatchback SUV model “X1,” but the rearward-sloping roofline, bumper design, kidney grille, and other parts have been redesigned with sportier details to emphasize that it is a coupe SUV.

The interior of the Arkana features blue accent lines throughout, and the special seats feature embroidery in the shape of the Alpine logo, highlighting the special feel of the Esprit Alpine.

The interior design of the X2 is largely the same as that of the X1, but the meter and information display, which are two displays arranged side by side and integrated, are curved and face the driver. The air conditioning control panel also faces the driver, suggesting that this is a driver-centric car.

The Arcana exudes a sense of exclusivity with its curves and sporty décor, while the X2 exudes sportiness with its linear design. The design approaches of the two cars are intriguingly symmetrical.

Renault Arkana Esprit Alpine E-Tech Full Hybrid

Body size = Length 4570mm x Width 1820mm x Height 1580mm

Wheelbase = 2720mm

Vehicle weight = 1470kg

Tire size = 225/45R19

BMW X2 xDrive20i

Body size = Total length 4555mm x Total width 1845mm x Total height 1575mm

Wheelbase = 2690mm

Vehicle weight = 1670kg

Tire size = 245/45R19

The fuel-efficient Renault Arkana and the powerful BMW X2

The Arkana Esprit Alpine uses E-TECH, a combination of a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine and two electric motors. E-TECH is a unique full hybrid system that applies Renault’s F1 technology, and boasts smooth gear changes and highly efficient driving by coordinating the engine with a 49 PS main motor and a 20 PS sub-motor. The system output is around 140 PS, but fuel economy is as high as 22.8 km/L.

The X2, on the other hand, makes the most of its 2.0-liter displacement and turbocharger. The BMW-like, refreshingly fast engine, combined with a 7-speed DCT, delivers responsive, direct acceleration, giving you the feeling you’d expect from a BMW. The electronically controlled AWD system, “xDrive,” provides stable driving even in bad weather or on winding roads, but the X2’s pure gasoline turbo engine boasts a fuel economy of just 12.8km/L.

The Arkana utilizes electrification technology to maximize fuel efficiency while adding a sporty touch, while the X2 maintains a clear sporty feel with its powerful engine and sharp handling.

Renault Arkana Esprit Alpine E-Tech Full Hybrid

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder DOHC gasoline

Displacement = 1597cc

Maximum output = 94PS/5600rpm

Maximum torque = 148Nm/3600rpm

Transmission = Electronically controlled dog clutch multi-mode AT (engine 4-speed, motor 2-speed)

Drive system = FWD

BMW X2 xDrive20i

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Gasoline

Displacement = 1998cc

Maximum output = 204PS/5000rpm

Maximum torque = 300Nm/1450-4500rpm

Transmission = 7-speed DCT

Drive system = AWD

The best coupe SUV is the classic BMW or the original Renault?

The X2 is priced at about 1.4 million yen more than the X2, but the Arkana is more affordable, despite being equipped with Renault’s unique full hybrid system.

The Arkana has the design essence of a French car, as well as the special feel of an Alpine sports car. However, it must be said that its power performance is somewhat lacking. The X2 is a little more expensive, but its power performance is impeccable, and you can enjoy the dynamic driving that is typical of BMW. The X2’s styling, which is more like a coupe SUV, is also attractive.

If the X2 is an orthodox coupe SUV, the Arkana, which uses an original powertrain, is somewhat unique. At the same time, the Arkana is a unique presence even when looking at imported cars as a whole.