Renault launches 160 and 200 hp hybrid engines for crossovers

Inaugurating Renault's new hybrid engine strategy are the new full hybrid versions of the Captur and Symbioz, which gain power thanks to an all-new 160 hp powertrain, replacing the current 143 hp configuration. At the heart of the updated E-Tech offering is a new 109 hp, four-cylinder 1.8 petrol engine with direct injection, which was developed by the Horse division in a joint venture with Geely and replaces the previous 94 hp, four-cylinder 1.6 with indirect injection. The electric system consists of two motors.

The main one, 36 kW and 205 Nm, is responsible for the electric drive and energy recovery under braking. The second, a 15 kW Hsg (Hybrid Starter Generator), handles mechanical transitions and starting. The actively cooled 1.4 kWh (280 V) lithium-ion battery offers 20 per cent more capacity than the previous generation. In urban and peri-urban areas, the new Symbioz can travel in electric mode up to 80 per cent of the time, reaching 105 km/h without using the combustion engine.

The automatic transmission with tooth clutch has been revised to improve smoothness in gear changes and reduce vibrations. The new final ratio has been optimised for motorway driving. The Symbioz MY 2025 sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds while declared fuel consumption drops to 4.3 l/100 km according to the WLTP cycle, with CO₂ emissions of 98 g/km.

In parallel, Renault also upgrades the 200 hp E-Tech Full Hybrid system, which is made available on models such as the Australe, Rafale and, above all, the MY2025 Espace.

The 200 hp E-Tech full hybrid system uses a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine with three cylinders and 130 hp, combined with two electric motors: a 70 hp (50 kW) main motor for electric drive, and a second 25 hp motor, which takes care of starting the heat engine and managing gear changes.