Renault Korea Motors introduces the ‘XM3 E-TECH Hybrid’ to the domestic market.
The XM3 E-TECH Hybrid has received accolades as the best hybrid vehicle from experts and actual buyers in the European market, where it was launched ahead of the domestic market. It boasts a hybrid powertrain that is closest to an electric vehicle.
In urban driving scenarios, which comprise a significant portion of consumer daily travel, the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid can operate in electric vehicle mode up to 75% of the time at speeds below 50 km/h. Additionally, it features an ‘EV button’ that allows for 100% electric vehicle mode selection depending on battery capacity and speed, as well as a ‘B-mode’ that recharges the battery through regenerative braking similar to engine braking when the driver lifts their foot from the accelerator.
This allows the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid to showcase remarkable fuel efficiency in urban areas. The official combined fuel economy based on 17-inch tires is 17.4 km/l, with urban fuel economy at 17.5 km/l and highway fuel economy at 17.3 km/l. (For 18-inch tires, combined fuel economy is 17.0 km/l, urban is 17.4 km/l, and highway is 16.6 km/l.)
The E-TECH Hybrid system of the XM3 was developed by incorporating hybrid technology know-how used in Renault Group’s F1 machines. It features a dual motor system consisting of a driving electric motor (36 kW / 205 Nm) and a high-voltage starter motor with a power generation function (15 kW / 50 Nm), combined with a clutch-less multi-mode gearbox and a 1.6-liter gasoline engine optimized for hybrids, providing a balanced combination of high energy efficiency and dynamic driving performance.
In terms of design, the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid incorporates distinctive elements that set it apart from existing internal combustion engine models. It features the F1 Dynamic Blade bumper, previously only available on higher trims of the Renault Arkana in the European market. This F1 blade bumper resembles the air intakes of high-performance vehicles such as F1 cars, capturing the essence of dynamic performance in its design.
New colors exclusive to the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid include Electric Orange and Wave Blue. Adding the Inspire design package further enhances the sporty image of the vehicle.
Advanced technologies that assist in safe driving are also a highlight of the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid. It comes standard with features such as ▲ Auto Hold ▲ Adaptive Cruise Control (with stop-and-go capability) ▲ Distance Warning System ▲ Lane Departure Warning System (LDW) ▲ Lane Keeping Assist System (LKA) ▲ Automatic High Beam (AHL) across all trims.
For the INSPIRE trim, additional features such as ▲ Highway and Traffic Jam Assistant (HTA) ▲ Easy Connect 9.3″ Navigation are included. The INSPIRE (e-Shifter) trim comes with an electronic shifter (e-Shifter), providing enhanced user convenience compared to the conventional mechanical gearbox.
The Easy Connect 9.3″ navigation system now includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto, allowing users to use an in-car payment system to order and pay for products sold at convenience stores, cafes, restaurants, and gas stations, all within the vehicle. In case of emergencies like vehicular accidents, a dedicated 24-hour call center supports emergency rescue reporting and accident handling, along with real-time T-map navigation.
With a trunk space of 487 liters, the largest among hybrid models, and a double trunk floor, the XM3 maintains its practical space configuration even in the E-TECH Hybrid. In addition to the indoor deodorization system and combined filter that keep the interior air of the vehicle clean, the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid also includes a Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) to help reduce external fine dust emissions.
Reflecting the reduction in individual consumption tax and eco-friendly vehicle tax incentives, the actual consumer purchase prices for the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid are ▲ RE 30.94 million KRW, ▲ INSPIRE 33.08 million KRW, and ▲ INSPIRE (e-Shifter) 33.37 million KRW.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr