Renault Arkana I (2019 – 2025)
Reliability score : 8.2/10
The first-generation Renault Arkana is an SUV-Coupe that presents a major industrial particularity: it exists on two distinct platforms depending on the market. 1. Emerging markets (Russia, CIS) - 2019: Based on the B0+ platform (that of the Dacia Duster), it offers classic internal combustion engines and optional all-wheel drive (4x4).
2. Europe and South Korea (Samsung XM3) - 2021: Based on the modern CMF-B platform (Clio V, Captur II), it focuses exclusively on mild-hybrid (MHEV) and full-hybrid (E-Tech) petrol engines, with front-wheel drive only. Overall, the European Arkana is a commercial success thanks to its distinctive design, its preserved passenger space despite the sloping roofline, and the efficiency of its engines. Important note: The Arkana has never been offered with a die
✅ Strengths
- Successful and distinctive SUV-Coupe design without overly sacrificing rear passenger space
- Overall reliability of the 1.3 TCe (H5Ht) engine, very well developed
- Very low fuel consumption of the E-Tech version in urban environments
- Sound and dynamic road handling (CMF-B platform)
- Generous boot volume (except for the E-Tech version where it is reduced by the battery)
⚠️ Weaknesses
- Quality of some interior plastics (lower part of the cabin)
- Easy Link multimedia system prone to bugs (black screens, slowness, CarPlay/Android Auto disconnections)
- Very poor rear visibility (reversing camera essential)
- E-Tech dog-clutch gearbox can be rough on rural roads/motorways
- Imperfect sound insulation on motorways (wind noise around the mirrors)
🎯 Verdict
The Renault Arkana is an overall highly recommendable choice, particularly in its mild-hybrid internal combustion versions. The 1.3 TCe (140 or 160 hp) engine is the choice for reason and reliability: it is powerful, economical, and free from the flaws of the old 1.2 TCe. The 1.6 E-Tech 145 version is appealing for high-mileage urban drivers thanks to its extremely low consumption, but its complex transmission requires rigorous verification of its history (updates and recalls) before purchasing a used model. Avoid early 2021 models if the electronic history is unclear.
Common issues
Problèmes logiciels du système d'infodivertissement Easy Link
Low
🔧 Dès l'acquisition – 50 000 km
💶 0 € (mise à jour sous garantie) – 150 € (hors garantie)
Vérifier les mises à jour logicielles et le bon fonctionnement avant achat.
Dysfonctionnements mineurs de la boîte de vitesses EDC (à-coups, hésitations)
Medium
🔧 20 000 – 80 000 km
💶 0 € (mise à jour logicielle) – 800 € (remplacement capteur/mécatronique)
Tester la fluidité des passages de rapports à froid et à chaud.
Capteurs moteur ou gestion électronique (1.3 TCe) entraînant des voyants
Medium
🔧 10 000 – 60 000 km
💶 150 – 500 €
S'assurer que tous les rappels ou mises à jour ont été effectués.
Usure prématurée de certains éléments de suspension/direction (rotules, biellettes)
Low
🔧 40 000 – 90 000 km
💶 200 – 600 € par essieu
Écouter attentivement les bruits de suspension sur routes dégradées.
Estimated maintenance costs
| Oil change |
£80 – 150 |
| Timing chain |
£1 000 – 2 000 (si nécessaire, non routinier) |
| Clutch |
£1 200 – 2 300 (pour remplacement pack d'embrayage EDC en cas de panne) |
| Complete brakes |
£300 – 600 |
| Estimated annual budget |
£500 – 1 000 |
Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.