2024 Renault Rafale E-Tech FHEV Techno Esprit Alpine 5dr Auto 4C 1.2: A Review The 2024 Renault Rafale E-Tech FHEV Techno Esprit Alpine represents a bold new direction for Renault, combining striking design, a sophisticated hybrid system, and a dash of sporty performance. Positioned as a midsize SUV with a focus on style and efficiency, the Rafale enters the market with a lot to offer. Design and Styling: Renault has clearly pushed the design boundaries with the Rafale. This 5-door SUV features a coupe-like silhouette with a sloping roofline, giving it a sporty, premium feel. The Esprit Alpine trim further enhances this with performance-inspired details: gloss black accents, 20-inch alloy wheels, and exclusive Esprit Alpine badging. The front grille is bold, flanked by sleek matrix LED headlights, while the rear is clean and modern with C-shaped taillights that tie into Renault’s signature lighting design. Performance and Driving Dynamics: At the heart of the Rafale is Renault’s E-Tech hybrid system, powered by a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor. The combination produces around 200 hp, delivering smooth and efficient power. It’s a full hybrid system (FHEV), meaning the Rafale can drive short distances in electric mode alone, which is particularly useful for city driving. Hybrid Efficiency and Fuel Economy: Renault’s hybrid technology shines in the Rafale. The 1.2-liter engine, when combined with the electric motor, is designed for both efficiency and performance. While the Rafale isn’t a plug-in hybrid, the full hybrid system captures energy from braking and coasting, which powers the electric motor for short bursts of emissions-free driving. Official fuel economy figures suggest around 50-55 mpg, making it one of the more efficient options in its class. In real-world driving, the SUV performs close to these figures, particularly in urban areas where the hybrid system maximizes electric usage.