- New Renault Filante revealed in full
- Large, posh SUV with hybrid powertrain
- 250 hp and 565 Nm
- As big as a BMW X5 or Audi Q8
- Not due to arrive until 2027
Renault has revealed its incoming Filante SUV in full - and it’s a car that could have BMW and Audi worried.
The Filante represents a bold move for Renault.
Not only is it an unusual shape, marrying the silhouette of both a saloon and an SUV, it’s also part of Renault’s efforts to shift the brand upmarket.
At 4,915mm long, 1,890mm wide and 1,635mm tall, the Renault Filante is roughly the same size as the BMW X5 or Audi Q8 - so it’s a properly large SUV.
The triple-screen Filante is also brimming with tech and positioned as Renault’s ‘new global flagship in design and technology’.
Here’s all you need to know ahead of the Filante’s UK arrival in 2027.
What engine is powering the Renault Filante?
Rather than going with a fully electric powertrain, Renault has chosen a full hybrid engine for the launch of the Filante.
It’s a new ‘E-Tech 250’ unit that combines a traditional 1.5-litre petrol engine with a small 1.64 kWh battery.
They join forces to drive the front wheels while providing power of 250 hp and 250 Nm torque, with acceleration details still to be revealed.
Renault says 75% of city driving can be done in all-electric mode while fuel consumption is 50% less than an equivalent non-hybrid engine.
Expect CO2 emissions of 106 g/km.
How does that engine compare with rivals? All versions of the BMW X5 or Audi Q8 get more oomph and all-wheel drive and it’ll take time for Renault to carry the same sort of kudos as those brands.
Perhaps a better comparison is with larger SUVs like the Kia Sorento or Hyundai Santa Fe - though those family-pleasers come as standard with seven seats while the Filante is a five-seater.
The Lexus RX might be another benchmark, with that premium SUV coming with a choice of either a full hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Is the Renault Filante an SUV-Saloon?
Yes, the Renault Filante marries the body shapes of both an SUV and a Saloon, similar to the BMW X6 or Renault’s own Rafale.
There’s an illuminated grille at the front that’s particularly easy on the eye, along with ultra-slim LED headlights and chrome window surrounds.
At the back you’ll find a pronounced rear spoiler and a striking, sloping roofline.
What’s the interior of the Renault Filante like?
Expect screens - lots of screens - in the cabin of the Renault Filante.
There’s a wide horizontal dash (called the OpenR Panorama) that incorporates three 12.3-inch displays.
That set up is then complemented by a 25.6-inch augmented reality head-up display.
The interior will vary according to trim, but you’re looking here at the range-topping Esprit Alpine grade and it looks sensational - very BMW - with plush materials, Alpine-inspired stitching and illuminated branding.
You can also enjoy a fixed panoramic roof.
How practical and safe is the Renault Filante?
The Renault Filante offers generous amounts of space, with passengers in the rear blessed with 320 mm of knee room and 874 mm of headroom.
A 654-litre boot is generous for the class and expands to a whopping 2,071 litres with the rear seats folded.
In terms of driver assistance and safety features, the Filante is equipped with intelligent adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go, lane centring, emergency collision avoidance, braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and a 540-degree camera for all-round perception.
Enjoyed this? Read our latest news
- Kia K4 Sportswagon is your new practical estate!
- Mitsubishi L200 set for UK comeback as 2026 launch confirmed
- Top 5 cars from the Brussels Motor Show 2026
- Top 10 best car lease deals this week!
- Could new Zeekr 7GT outmuscle Porsche and BMW?
Where To Next?
What is car leasing? Read our car leasing explainer.
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to our newsletter.
Looking for a great leasing deal? Check out our incredible range of special offers.
Read our latest reviews and find the right model for you.
Want to know more about leasing? Take a look at our comprehensive leasing guides.
Interested in everything motoring? Why not catch up on all the latest car leasing news.
