The All-New Renault Symbioz: Mid-Size SUV
source: Renault
Published 10 July 2024
Renault has unveiled its all-new Symbioz mid-size SUV, poised to challenge the dominance of the best-selling Nissan Qashqai. Boasting a full-hybrid powertrain as standard, the Symbioz enters the market with a starting price of £29,295, significantly undercutting the base Qashqai by nearly £1,000 and the e-Power hybrid version by over £5,000. This competitive pricing, combined with its robust features and stylish design, positions the Symbioz as a formidable contender in the crowded SUV market.
A Closer Look at the Renault Symbioz
The Renault Symbioz offers buyers three distinct trim levels: Techno, Techno Esprit Alpine, and Iconic Esprit Alpine. Each trim level is packed with features designed to enhance the driving experience. The standard Techno trim includes a 10.4-inch central touchscreen powered by Renault’s Google-based OpenR Link infotainment system, which integrates Google Maps and Google Assistant. This system, also found in Renault’s all-electric Scenic and the recently updated Captur, offers seamless connectivity with apps and services.
In addition to its advanced infotainment system, the Symbioz comes equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, wireless charging, keyless entry, LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, a rear-view camera, parking sensors, and 18-inch alloy wheels. These features ensure that even the base model of the Symbioz provides a comprehensive and modern driving experience.
source: Renault
Upgraded Trims and Luxurious Features
For those seeking additional luxury and sportiness, the Techno Esprit Alpine trim, priced at an additional £2,000, enhances the vehicle with 19-inch alloy wheels, sportier cabin touches, heated seats with French tricolore stitching, a heated steering wheel, a hands-free powered tailgate, blind spot monitoring, and Active Driver Assist. This combination of features adds a layer of sophistication and practicality to the Symbioz.
The range-topping Iconic Esprit Alpine trim, costing £4,000 more than the base Techno, includes a nine-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system, a 360-degree parking camera system, hands-free parking technology, and a SolarBay opacifying panoramic sunroof. This model also boasts 29 new-generation driving aids for optimized safety and driving comfort, making the Iconic Esprit Alpine an attractive option for those who want the best in comfort and technology.
source: Renault
Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood, every Symbioz model is powered by Renault’s E-Tech hybrid system, which combines a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor. This system delivers a combined power output of 143bhp, enabling the Symbioz to accelerate from 0-62mph in 10.6 seconds. The clever hybrid technology, coupled with the vehicle’s relatively light weight of under 1,500kg, allows it to achieve up to 60.1mpg and emit just 105g/km of CO2.
The Symbioz also offers class-leading boot space. With a standard capacity of 492 litres, the boot can be expanded to 624 litres by sliding the rear bench forward by up to 16cm, though this comes at the expense of some rear legroom. In comparison, the Nissan Qashqai offers a slightly larger 504-litre boot, but the Symbioz’s flexibility gives it an edge in practicality.
source: Renault
Design and Interior
Visually, the Symbioz is essentially a stretched Captur, featuring a sleek and modern design. The front end mirrors the recently revised Captur with its sleek LED headlights and arrow-shaped daytime running lights. However, the Symbioz distinguishes itself with its MPV-like side profile, short bonnet, and boxy roofline, making it stand out from traditional SUVs like the Qashqai and Kia Sportage.
Inside, the Symbioz shares much of its cabin design with the Captur. While it may not be as visually striking as the interiors of the Renault Austral or Scenic, it is functional and smart. The larger 10.4-inch infotainment screen, which includes Google services, adds a tech-savvy touch, making the Symbioz’s interior both practical and modern. Additionally, the Solarbay opacifying sunroof with voice control and a sliding rear bench that folds to create a flat floor make the interior highly versatile for various needs.
source: Renault
Final Thoughts
The Renault Symbioz presents a compelling alternative to established mid-size SUVs like the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage. With its competitive pricing, advanced hybrid technology, extensive standard features, and stylish design, it is well-positioned to attract a wide range of buyers.
As Renault’s CEO Fabrice Cambolive stated, “Symbioz takes the best from our latest Renault cars and combines it with our ‘voitures à vivre’ DNA: the new Renault design, our efficient E-Tech full hybrid technology, and the best multimedia system in the market: OpenR Link with Google built-in, praised by our customers.”
Gilles Vidal, VP of Renault Brand Design, adds, “The design of Renault Symbioz combines sensual volumes and dynamic character lines, treated with precision. Combined in a well-balanced silhouette, Symbioz exudes strength and technical sophistication, while at the same time promising a roomy and practical experience.”
While it remains to be seen how the Symbioz performs on the road, its impressive specifications and innovative features make it a promising new entrant in the SUV market. As the order books open, the automotive world will be watching to see if the Symbioz can truly outshine its rivals.
source: Renault
