Renault
Symbioz
The Symbioz hybrid crossover slots into Renault’s range as the perfect car for those who feel that the Captur is too small, but the Austral is too big or too expensive. Well-priced and very handsome, the Symbioz is powered by a 1.6-litre hybrid system that is impressively frugal, albeit a touch noisy at times. There’s a big boot out the back but not quite enough legroom in the rear seats, which gives some people reason to upgrade to a different Renault model…
the Symbioz is powered by a 1.6-litre hybrid system that is impressively frugal
Rafale
The flagship SUV in Renault’s range, the Rafale is offered with a choice of hybrid powertrains and a huge amount of space both in the cabin and the boot. Despite the size, it’s a very efficient thing, while its modern interior includes a host of clever tech features. The infotainment technology is powered by an intuitive Google operating system, while a generous level of standard equipment means the Renault majors on value for money. It’s very smooth on the road, too.
Renault 5
What a joy this car is. Not only has Renault expertly straddled the retro-modern design line with the new 5’s style, but it’s genuinely good looking, even to those that don’t have fond memories of the original from the 1970s. Inside, there are a few more cool retro touches, but it’s not OTT, and the digital dashboard is a good one, sensibly using physical controls in places. Meanwhile, the electric powertrain enables a range of up to 410km and the relatively low weight of the car makes it notably efficient. That also helps with the agility in corners and it’s a really fun thing to drive. All of that would be enough to make this new electric supermini a hit, but now it’s guaranteed success as Renault Ireland has managed to bring it in at a temptingly low price.
Scenic
Forget Renault Scenics of the past, which were (mostly) sensible people carriers. The new one is more of a crossover-style vehicle, though Renault hasn’t forgotten its practical roots and this new Scenic is hugely spacious inside with lots of clever versatility touches. In case you missed it, the Scenic is now an all-electric vehicle and can be had with two different battery sizes. The latest, an 87kWh unit, enables an official range of up to 625km on a charge, and the Scenic is such a lovely car to travel in, you’ll want to take every opportunity you can to test that claim.
Arkana
For Renault buyers not quite ready to go for one of its EVs, but still wanting a bit of space and style, there’s the Arkana crossover. From some angles it looks like a coupe; and others like an SUV. It’s certainly interesting. Despite all that, the Arkana has a large boot and plenty of space in the high-quality cabin as well. Buyers can choose from petrol or hybrid powertrains and the style-conscious should check out the particularly well-appointed Esprit Alpine versions.
Austral
The Austral is one of Renault’s C-segment challengers that kind of takes on the best-selling SUVs in the country, in that it’s a comparable size to the Hyundai Tucson and Nissan Qashqai. Renault does things its own way with this car, however, in that it’s only available with a 200hp hybrid powertrain. We dig the exterior style and spacious cabin, plus Renault’s excellent infotainment system.
Captur
A major revamp was enacted on the compact Captur crossover in 2024, and it looks and drives sharper than ever. The new Esprit Alpine trim level is particularly eye-catching, though its large alloy wheels aren’t great for refinement or comfort. That’s not a problem for the rest of the lineup and the Captur’s cabin is a good one. Choose from petrol or hybrid power, depending on your budget
Clio
One of Renault’s longest-serving nameplates continues to this day on a spacious five-door supermini. A refresh for 2024 kept the Clio looking sharp and that hasn’t diminished in the intervening months. The Clio is a great all-rounder as it’s larger inside than many cars at the same price, it’s efficient, and fun to drive. There are plenty of trim levels to ponder, a 90hp petrol option and full-fat hybrid power producing up to 145hp. All are good.
Megane E-Tech electric
The Megane was completely reinvented for this generation, moving on from a previous life as a hatchback to become sort of a crossover. In reality, it’s a tall hatchback rather than anything you could call an SUV, but thankfully Renault’s designers have done an excellent job on its style, as its arresting shape is reason enough to give it a closer look. Two battery sizes are offered to cater for different budgets and range needs, and the largest can allow for up to 450km according to the official rating. Make sure you check out the stylish cabin if you see one in the showroom.