All-new Renault Symbioz revealed as hybrid-only family SUV

• All-new family SUV
• 143bhp full-hybrid petrol engine
• Available to order from July 2024

Car manufacturers are doubling down on SUVs in 2024, and the all-new Renault Symbioz proves that the French marque is no exception. The Symbioz brings Renault’s current SUV tally up to five, slotting between the Captur and Austral in its lineup and offering space for five passengers.

The Symbioz has been designed with urban families in mind, promising a versatile, configurable interior but without the bulk that comes with a full-size SUV. It will only be offered with one engine initially, which is the same full-hybrid powertrain found in the Clio and Captur, and is due to go on sale in July 2024.

What does the Renault Symbioz look like?

At 4,410mm long, the Renault Symbioz is around 180mm longer than the recently-facelifted Captur, and 100mm shorter than the Austral. That’s a small window to squeeze a whole new SUV into, but Renault claims that the Symbioz gives it a “stronger entry-level presence” in the mid-size SUV segment. It utilises a lengthened version of Renault’s ‘CMF-B’ platform – the same architecture used for the Clio and Captur.

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That relationship to the new Captur is evident externally. From the front, the two SUVs are practically indistinguishable, using the same design language that first appeared on the Renault Scenic electric SUV. The LED headlights take on the same shape, sitting either side of a thin black grille with a geometric pattern. Below are a pair of LED daytime running lights – again lifted from the smaller Captur.

The rear of the Symbioz is entirely new, however, feeling more in-keeping with the Scenic SUV. There’s a pair of angular tail-lights above a chunky lower bumper, and you’ll spot Renault’s new diamond logo sitting proudly at the centre of the tailgate. Buyers will be able to choose from seven paint colours, along with a selection of 18 and 19-inch alloy wheel designs.

What does the interior of the Renault Symbioz look like?

Much like the exterior, the Symbioz shares the front portion of its cabin with the new Captur. You get the same dashboard layout, with a standard-fit 10.4-inch portrait infotainment touchscreen that runs the latest Android Automotive operating system. That’s not to be confused with Android Auto (the smartphone mirroring system that comes fitted to all models along with Apple CarPlay).

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The driver gets a 10.3-inch screen for important driving information, while a bank of physical toggle switches are used for climate control. Interior upholstery varies for each trim level but every Symbioz gets fabric seats, while mid-level Techno and top-spec Esprit Alpine models get contrasting stitching. There’s an optional panoramic sunroof available, which uses the same ‘Solarbay’ tech we’ve seen in the Scenic. With the press of a button or even by voice command it can transition from opaque to transparent.

Step through the rear doors of the Symbioz and you’ll find room for three passengers. The 180mm increase in length over the Captur has created more knee room for rear-seat occupants, while the bench can slide forward to increase boot space from 492 to 624 litres when it's not in use. Fold the rear bench flat and boot space grows to 1,582 litres.

What engines are available with the Renault Symbioz?

Renault will only offer the Symbioz with one engine initially: the E-Tech 145 hybrid. It’s the same setup used in the Clio and Captur, comprising a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, two electric motors and a small 1.2kWh battery. Total system power output stands at 143bhp, while Renault claims efficiency figures of over 60mpg could be possible. It can drive on pure electric power at low speeds – no range is quoted yet, but Renault claims that up to 80% of around-town driving can be achieved in EV mode.

How much does the Renault Symbioz cost and when can I buy one?

UK pricing for the Symbioz is still under wraps but, much like its size, we expect its price tag to sit between the Captur and the Austral. Those models start at around £22,000 and £35,000 respectively, so we estimate that entry-level Symbioz Iconic models will cost around £28,000. The top-spec Symbioz Esprit Alpine could cost closer to £35,000, but we’ll have to wait until later in the year for official pricing.

Customers will be able to place an order from July 2024.

Read our list of the best hybrid SUVs to see what the Renault Symbioz will be competing against…