NEW RENAULT ARKANA

It’s been a long time between Renault drives with the French brand offering a strictly consolidated passenger car line-up in our small market. We last drove a Megane RS on track before demolishing the length of the North Island and that car lives long in the memory. This five-door hatchback, the Korean-built Arkana, sits at the opposite end of the sporting spectrum but would just as happily take on a brisk Auckland to Wellington trip, and it would do so without requiring a fuel stop. But it’s more efficient than fun, more practical than characterful, and more usable than some class rivals thanks to its high-heeled stance and excellent packaging.

A sloping roof and rising shoulderline mark out Arkana as a crossover-coupe in BMW X4 mould and, like that model, it looks distinctive but sometimes awkward depending on your viewing point. At the front, the blended grille and headlamps envelop a large Renault diamond, while the broad tail lights achieve the same at the high-hipped rear.

Power is modest but generally adequate, the 1.3-litre four broadcasting a slightly gruff note on its way to pumping out 115kW with a smidge of MHEV assistance from a 12V system. Progress is not without effort, there’s some hesitation from a standing start and a little lurch if you’re abrupt with throttle inputs, but sympathetic drivers will find the Arkana an easy and relaxing drive whether they’re cruising around town or down country. And there will be moments when you’re impressed by the body control and grip and the sprightly pick-up. Seat comfort and the adjustability of the driving position are both very good for a car in this class.

Upmarket Intens specification brings tasty equipment levels in a well presented cabin that ultimately lacks the Gallic flair that would help make Arkana more memorable. However peace of mind comes from a five-star NCAP crash test rating and the roll-call of safety systems in Intens trim is first-rate.

The bottom line: a sensible and well-sorted car that will appeal to the head as much as the heart.