The 2025 Renault Arkana Blends Coupe Charm with SUV Confidence
Shereen Shabnam
Behind the wheel of the striking 2025 Renault Arkana in Zanzibar Blue, I felt more than just the eyes of fellow motorists – driving it along Dubai streets, I felt the pulse of a new era in coupe SUVs. With its flowing lines, athletic stance, and elevated driving experience, the Arkana brings a bold aesthetic to everyday luxury, blending French flair with practical innovation. As one of the first to experience this head-turning model on Middle Eastern roads, I found it to be as dynamic in motion as it is elegant.
Exterior
The 2025 Arkana redefines sporty elegance with its dramatic fastback silhouette, high ground clearance, and assertive styling cues. Its Nouvel’R logo rests proudly at the center of a Deep Glossy Black grille with a 3D diamond motif, flanked by translucent smoked tail lamps and dark chrome badging. From its black twin exhausts to its integrated F1-style front blade, the Arkana announces its arrival with confidence. Finished in Zanzibar Blue, the model I drove stood out like a sapphire in motion. New 18-inch Alpine-inspired wheels and the Satin Grey front blade add athletic edge, while the rear spoiler and black Arkana badging finish the look with urban sophistication.
Interior
Slip inside the Esprit Alpine trim, and you are greeted with a refined, performance-driven environment. Upholstered in eco-conscious coated fabric and imitation suede, the seats feature blue overstitching and the signature Alpine logo — subtle, luxurious, and effortlessly cool. The cabin is airy and premium, enhanced by a glazed electric sunroof, heated seats, and slate-finished dash detailing. With five full-sized seats, 513 litres of boot space, and flexible folding configurations, the Arkana proves its SUV credentials without compromising on its coupe-inspired curves.
Technology
The Arkana delivers an intuitive digital experience anchored by the EASY LINK multimedia system. The 9.3-inch touchscreen integrates seamlessly with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, while the 10.2-inch digital driver display puts real-time information front and center. Second-row passengers enjoy thoughtful touches, like USB ports and enhanced visibility, and wireless charging ensures every device stays powered throughout the journey. The optional Bose® premium sound system, with nine high-performance speakers, creates an immersive sonic experience worthy of the Arkana’s upscale vibe.
Performance
Under the hood, the 1.3L turbocharged engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission delivers 155 horsepower and 262 Nm of torque, offering smooth acceleration and agile handling. Whether weaving through city streets or gliding on the open road, the Arkana feels responsive, poised, and confident. Despite its sporty silhouette, the Arkana never sacrifices comfort. Multi-Sense driving modes allow drivers to tailor their journey with adjustable steering and engine response, while the suspension strikes an ideal balance between precision and softness.
Safety
Renault’s Human First program is embedded throughout the Arkana’s suite of 10 advanced driver-assistance systems. From blind spot warning and 360° surround view camera to hands-free parking assist, hill start assist, and rear cross-traffic alert, the Arkana offers peace of mind at every turn. Add in adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and front/rear sensors, and you’ve got a driver-centric experience engineered for both confidence and calm.
Our Verdict
The 2025 Renault Arkana is a masterclass in duality — at once sporty and spacious, daring and refined. It speaks to a new generation of drivers who demand emotion from their car without giving up everyday versatility. Whether navigating urban jungles or coastal highways, the Arkana feels at home, commanding attention while offering a drive that’s intuitive, immersive, and unmistakably premium. In Zanzibar Blue, it’s more than a car — it’s a conversation starter.
