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2026 Renault Arkana mild-hybrid update now on sale in Australia

Renault Australia has updated its Arkana lineup for 2026 (MY26), introducing a mild-hybrid powertrain across the range along with revisions aimed at improving refinement.

Available in showrooms now, the coupe-style SUV is offered in two grades: Techno and the flagship Esprit Alpine. Both variants are powered by a turbo 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 12-volt mild-hybrid system and a recalibrated seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

2026 Renault Arkana Esprit Alpine - rear

Outputs remain unchanged at 116kW and 270Nm, while combined fuel consumption is rated at 5.9L/100km – the same as the previous non-mild-hybrid version. The powertrain also meets Euro 6 emissions standards (like the previous model). Renault says the updated transmission delivers smoother operation than before, while the mild-hybrid system contributes to efficiency.

The Techno remains the entry point to the range, featuring 18-inch alloy wheels, a 9.3-inch touch-screen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument display, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, heated and power adjustable front seats, a power tailgate and a suite of driver assistance systems including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera.

2026 Renault Arkana Esprit Alpine - interior

Stepping up to the Esprit Alpine brings unique 19-inch alloy wheels, a Bose premium audio system, heated steering wheel, suede-style upholstery, bespoke interior and exterior styling, and a panoramic sunroof as standard.

For the first time, Renault is also offering a matte paint finish on the Arkana. Satin Grey is exclusive to the Esprit Alpine and costs an additional $1150, while metallic paint remains a $900 option across the range.

2026 Renault Arkana Esprit Alpine - rear seats

Practicality remains unchanged, with a claimed 485-litre boot expanding to 1268 litres when the rear seats are folded. Braked towing capacity is rated at 900kg.

The MY26 Renault Arkana is covered by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, with scheduled servicing required every 12 months or 30,000km. See below for the starting prices (excludes on-road costs):

2026 Renault Arkana Techno: $41,990
2026 Renault Arkana Esprit Alpine: $45,990

Brett Davis

Brett started out as a motor mechanic but eventually became frustrated working on cars that weren't his. He then earned a degree in journalism and scored a job at Top Gear Australia back in 2008, and then worked at Zoom/Extreme Performance magazines, CarAdvice, and started PerformanceDrive/PDriveTV in 2011 with Josh Bennis. He's now the owner and managing editor here at Driving Enthusiast.
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