Performance & drive
What it’s like to drive, and how quiet it is
The cheapest Renault Arkana engine – the TCe 140 – is a 138bhp 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol with mild-hybrid assistance, which means it has a small electric motor to improve the petrol engine’s efficiency.
On the road, it’s responsive as you pull away but lacks mid-range shove, so you have to work it hard to get to higher speeds. The 0-62mph time is 9.8sec, which is peppy, but beaten by the Cupra Formentor 1.5 TSI 150.
Whichever engine you choose, it’ll come with an automatic gearbox as standard. They’re different types of gearbox but both change gears smoothly. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic in the TCe 140 is a tad hesitant when you kick down, though.
What’s the ride like? Well, it’s firmer than most of its rivals, including the Toyota C-HR, so in some ways it’s not as comfortable, and if you drive over a deep pothole or razor-edged expansion joint you’re greeted with a hefty thud. It’s not all bad, though – it controls body movements well over undulations and speed bumps so you and your passengers don't get bounced around, as they might in the softly-sprung C4.
Because its set-up is on the firm side, the Arkana handles pretty well. It’s not as agile as the Formentor, but has decent grip, not too much body lean and precise steering that’s pleasingly weighted. We wouldn’t say it’s fun, but its sure-footedness gives you confidence on a B-road.
