Test Drive

Renault Symbioz, how the family-size full hybrid SUV goes. Dimensions and prices

The French manufacturer relaunches in the C-Suv segment with a model derived from the Captur

by Danilo Loda

Renault Symbioz image bank media Test-Drive, from June 149 to 16th 2024 at Valencia, Spain - Photo Yannick Brossard/ DPPI

3' min read

3' min read

Renault expands its SUV range with the introduction of the new Symbioz, a model that sits between the elegant Austral and the popular Captur. This five-seater segment SUV, designed to combine practicality and convenience, is powered exclusively by a hybrid powertrain. Before the official launch, we had the opportunity to test the Symbioz on the roads around Valencia, Spain.

Interior design and comfort

The interior design of the Renault Symbioz follows the guidelines already adopted on other models of the French carmaker, offering a familiar and intuitive environment. The dashboard, steering wheel and centre console have a clean and functional layout, with an adjustable driving position and easy-to-use physical controls on the steering wheel. The 10.3-inch digital display is modern and minimalist, free of unnecessary information overload.

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Practicality is one of the Symbioz's strong points, with numerous storage compartments scattered throughout the cabin, totalling almost 25 litres of capacity. Space for rear passengers is plentiful, thanks to the sliding rear seat that can be adjusted to maximise legroom or increase boot volume to 624 litres.

Advanced on-board technology

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Symbioz is equipped with Renault's latest 'OpenR' infotainment system, powered by Android Automotive 12. This system offers a respectable user experience with fast responsiveness to inputs and full connectivity to Google, including Google Assistant, Google Maps and other apps from the Google Play Store. Users can also enjoy Android Auto and Apple CarPlay with both wired and wireless connections.Each version of the Symbioz is equipped with a wireless smartphone charger and two USB-C ports, located in the centre console. In addition, the car is set up to receive over-the-air updates, ensuring that the system can be upgraded without having to visit a dealer.

Security and Intelligent Functionality

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Safety is a priority for Renault, and the Symbioz is equipped with 29 driver assistance systems in the Iconic version, including six airbags. Among the most innovative features is the automatic emergency braking system, which detects pedestrians and cyclists during reversing manoeuvres and can intervene automatically to avoid collisions.

Other safety features include blind spot warning, lane keeping assist and speed limit detection with overtaking warning. Renault has also introduced the 'My Safety Switch' button, which allows the driver to customise and activate up to six safety systems at a touch.

Road Performance

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Renault Symbioz is definitely more about practicality and driving comfort than pure speed. The hybrid system allows short distances to be covered using only the electric motor, ideal for city driving. When more power is needed, the petrol engine kicks in seamlessly, maintaining quiet and smooth operation. However, if you are hunting for all the power the hybrid system can offer, then the engine becomes 'louder', especially if at low speed you push the accelerator hard, perhaps for a fast overtaking manoeuvre or to negotiate a steep hill.

The Symbioz behaves more like a hatchback than a typical SUV, with good cornering stability and a suspension set-up that balances comfort and body control. Official performance figures indicate a combined consumption of 4.7 litres/100 km and low CO2 emissions (105 g/km). During the two-day test drive that took us through a mix of motorways, city and country roads, the on-board computer indicated between 5.4 and 5.5 litres/100 km. A higher consumption than the official figures, but still a fairly respectable level for this type of car.

Renault Symbioz is already available for order with deliveries scheduled for September. Three trim levels are available: Techno, Esprit Alpine and Iconic. Prices start at 33,500 euros.

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