Renault is preparing to enter Australia’s growing small SUV market with the new Symbioz, based on the same CMF-B platform as the Mitsubishi ASX and Nissan Juke. It introduces the French brand’s first full-hybrid powertrain locally and promises a driving range of up to 1000km.
Due in showrooms from July, the Symbioz forms part of Renault Australia’s ongoing model renewal program and will be offered with a choice of mild-hybrid and full-hybrid powertrains across three variants; Techno Mild Hybrid, Techno Full Hybrid, and the flagship Esprit Alpine Full Hybrid.
The headline act is Renault’s new hybrid system, which combines a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor and a 1.4kWh battery. Renault claims the setup can deliver a driving range of up to 1000km under WLTP testing.
Producing a combined output 116kW and 265Nm, the system is designed to maximise electric operation in urban driving. For example, the vehicle can drive under electric power alone off the line and at slow speeds, while energy recuperation occurs during braking and deceleration.
Unlike many conventional hybrid transmissions, Renault’s system uses a multi-mode arrangement that combines a four-speed transmission for the petrol engine with a two-speed gearbox for the electric motor. The company says the design allows the powertrain to operate efficiently across a wide range of driving conditions.
For buyers seeking a lower-priced entry point, the Symbioz Techno Mild Hybrid uses a 1.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 104kW and 245Nm. It is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Although classified as a small SUV, the Symbioz sits towards the larger end of the segment. Measuring 4412mm long, 1797mm wide and riding on a 2639mm wheelbase, it should offer decent accommodation for passengers and luggage.
Speaking of luggage, you have between 460-592L of boot space in the hybrid thanks to a sliding rear bench, expanding to 1546L with the rear seats folded. These are excellent figures for this class. Going for the mild-hybrid increases the main boot volume to 563-695L, expanding to 1668L.
One of the more unusual options available across the range is Renault’s Solarbay panoramic roof. Using polymer dispersed liquid crystal technology embedded within the glass, the roof can electronically alter its transparency at the touch of a button, apparently eliminating the need for a conventional sunblind.
The Symbioz will be backed by Renault Australia’s five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty and requires servicing every 12 months or 30,000km. Full-hybrid variants also receive an eight-year, 160,000km warranty for the high-voltage battery.
Orders for the Symbioz open this month ahead of the first customer deliveries commencing in July. See below for the starting prices (excluding on-road costs):
2026 Renault Symbioz Techno Mild Hybrid: $36,990
2026 Renault Symbioz Techno Full Hybrid: $42,990
2026 Renault Symbioz Esprit Alpine Full Hybrid: $45,990
