Renault Korea Motors will begin pre-sales for the hybrid model of the coupe SUV XM3, named ‘XM3 E-TECH Hybrid’, starting October 1, ahead of its domestic launch this fall.
Positioned as a hybrid model closest to an electric vehicle, the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid is designed to offer an intriguing and remarkable driving experience with trendy technologies. It has upgraded the design featuring a newly applied F1 Dynamic Blade bumper and a dedicated color for the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid.
The XM3 E-TECH Hybrid is equipped with a hybrid drive system that allows for up to 75% of electric driving mode in urban areas at speeds under 50 km/h. Additionally, it includes an ‘EV button’ that enables 100% electric driving mode based on battery charge and speed, as well as ‘B-mode’, which allows battery charging while decelerating, similar to engine braking.
Developed by integrating hybrid technology know-how from Renault Group’s F1 machines, the E-TECH Hybrid system features a dual-motor setup combining a driving electric motor (36kW / 205Nm) and a high-voltage starter motor serving as a generator (15kW / 50Nm). This system is paired with a clutchless multi-mode gearbox and a 1.6-liter gasoline engine optimized for hybrid dynamics, offering a balance of high energy efficiency and dynamic driving performance.
The XM3 E-TECH Hybrid has already gained acclaim as the best hybrid vehicle from experts and actual customers in the European market, where it was launched earlier than in Korea, showcasing impressive sales figures. Under WLTP standards, the combined fuel efficiency of the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid in Europe is approximately 20.4 km per liter, and it is anticipated to achieve a certified fuel economy of about 80-85% of that in South Korea.
Distinctive design elements that set the hybrid model apart from existing internal combustion engine models will be added to the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid. The F1 Dynamic Blade bumper, currently applied to the higher trims of Renault Arkana in the European market, will be standard. This bumper design evokes the air intakes of high-performance vehicles like F1 cars, thereby visually expressing the dynamic driving performance of the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid. The vehicle’s low body height (1,570mm) and high ground clearance (186mm) contribute to a sporty silhouette, further enhanced with a satin gray line radiator grill, gunmetal gray skid plates, side garnishes at the front and rear, and a dual-diffuser-shaped chrome rear garnish. New dedicated colors for the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid include Electric Orange and Wave Blue.
Furthermore, if the Inspire design package is added, it comes with 18” Dynamic Black Two-Tone Alloy Wheels that heighten the sporty image along with a black two-tone roof, black outside mirror covers, glossy black B-pillar and belt line, and a black headliner. For colors like Cloud Pearl, Sonic Red, and Electric Orange, the body color will reflect on the front and rear skid plates, as well as the body-color side garnishes.
The XM3 E-TECH Hybrid features an electronic shift e-shifter that enhances user convenience compared to traditional mechanical transmissions. Furthermore, the Easy Connect 9.3” navigation system now supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto for seamless connectivity.
Additionally, the interior allows for ordering and payment of products sold at convenience stores, cafes, restaurants, and gas stations, as well as the delivery of those products right to the vehicle. The in-vehicle payment system and a dedicated 24-hour call center for emergency support, including incident reporting and accident management, are also available through the Easy Connect 9.3” navigation.
In addition, the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid is equipped with standard safety and convenience features across all trims, including ▲ Auto Hold ▲ Adaptive Cruise Control (with stop and go function) ▲ Distance Warning System ▲ Lane Departure Warning System ▲ Lane Keeping Assist System ▲ Automatic High Beam.
For the Inspire trim of the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid, features like ▲ e-shifter ▲ Easy Connect 9.3” navigation ▲ High-speed Road and Congestion Drive Assistance (HTA) are also provided as standard.
Boasting trunk space of 487 liters, the largest among its class, and a double trunk floor, the XM3 retains its practical space configuration in the E-TECH Hybrid. Complementing the auto odor elimination and combined filter systems in the XM3, the E-TECH Hybrid is equipped with a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) to further reduce outdoor fine dust emissions.
Considering that nearly 90% of existing XM3 customers prefer high-end trims (RE trim and above), the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid will be offered only in two premium trims, without a budget option, in order to suppress production cost increases caused by trim diversification while positioning the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid as a premium hybrid model. The trim name has been unified from the existing RE Signature to the INSPIRE trim, alongside the RE trim.
The expected price range for the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid (before eco-friendly tax benefits) is ▲ RE 32.3-32.6 million KRW ▲ INSPIRE 34.5-35.1 million KRW, with an additional 1.43 million KRW reduction if eco-friendly tax benefits apply.
Jin Lee, daedusj@autodiary.kr