Renault Korea Launches Pre-Orders for 'XM3 E-TECH Hybrid'

Final Price and Detailed Specifications to Be Announced Later

[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] Renault Korea Motors announced on the 30th that pre-orders for the hybrid model of the coupe-type SUV XM3, ‘XM3 E-TECH Hybrid,’ scheduled to be released domestically this fall, will begin on the 1st of next month.

The XM3 E-TECH Hybrid aims to be the hybrid model closest to an electric vehicle, offering an exciting and surprising driving experience with trendy technology. It has been upgraded in design to stand out more by newly applying the F1 Dynamic Blade bumper and introducing exclusive colors for the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid.

The XM3 E-TECH Hybrid is equipped with a hybrid drive system closest to an electric vehicle, allowing up to 75% electric vehicle mode driving in urban areas at speeds below 50 km/h. Additionally, it features an ‘EV button’ that enables 100% electric vehicle mode driving depending on battery remaining capacity and driving speed, and a ‘B-mode’ that provides engine brake-like deceleration and battery charging when the accelerator pedal is released, characteristics similar to electric vehicles. In Europe, the WLTP combined fuel efficiency of the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid is 20.4 km/l, and when applied to domestic standards, the official fuel efficiency is expected to be about 80-85% of the European figure.

The XM3 E-TECH Hybrid adds distinctive design elements that differentiate it from existing internal combustion engine models. First, the F1 Dynamic Blade bumper, applied to the higher trims of the Renault Arkana in the European market, is standard. The F1 Blade bumper resembles the air intakes of high-performance vehicles like F1 machines, visually expressing the dynamic driving performance of the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid. Additionally, the XM3’s sporty silhouette, created by the lowest body height (1570mm) and highest minimum ground clearance (186mm) in its class, is enhanced with a satin gray line radiator grille, gunmetal gray skid plates and side garnish on the front and rear, and a dual diffuser-shaped rear chrome garnish, strengthening its sophisticated image. New exclusive colors for the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid include Electric Orange and Wave Blue.

Furthermore, by adding the Inspire Design Package, the sporty image is further enhanced with 18” dynamic black two-tone alloy wheels, a black two-tone roof, black outside mirror covers, high-gloss black B-pillars and belt lines, and a black headliner. For Cloud Pearl, Sonic Red, and Electric Orange colors, the body color is reflected on the front and rear skid plates, and body color side garnish is additionally applied.

The XM3 E-TECH Hybrid applies an electronic shift lever e-Shifter, providing improved user convenience compared to conventional mechanical shifters. The Easy Connect 9.3" navigation system newly supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto. The in-car payment system allows ordering and payment for products sold at convenience stores, cafes, restaurants, and gas stations from inside the vehicle, with product pickup also possible. The safety support call service, accessible through the Easy Connect 9.3" navigation, provides emergency rescue reporting and accident handling support via a 24-hour dedicated call center in case of emergencies such as vehicle accidents.

In addition, the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid comes standard across all trims with driving safety and convenience features such as ▲Auto Hold ▲Adaptive Cruise Control (stop and go) ▲Distance Warning System ▲Lane Departure Warning System (LDW) ▲Lane Keeping Assist System (LKA) ▲Automatic High Beam (AHL). The Inspire trim of the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid additionally includes ▲e-Shifter ▲Easy Connect 9.3" navigation ▲Highway Traffic Assist (HTA) for driving on expressways and congested roads as standard features.

Boasting the largest trunk space among hybrid models in its class at 487 liters and a double trunk floor, the XM3’s practical space configuration continues to offer high usability in the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid. In addition to the XM3’s thorough management of interior air quality through an automatic deodorizing function and combined filter, the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid is equipped with a Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) to help reduce outdoor fine dust emissions.

Considering that nearly 90% of existing XM3 customers prefer premium trims of RE or higher, the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid is offered only in two premium trims without an entry-level trim. This strategy aims to suppress production cost increases due to trim diversification while positioning the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid as a premium hybrid model. The trim names have been consolidated by renaming the existing RE Signature to the INSPIRE trim, which is offered alongside the RE trim.

The expected price range of the XM3 E-TECH Hybrid (before eco-friendly tax benefits) is ▲RE 32.3 to 32.6 million KRW ▲INSPIRE 34.5 to 35.1 million KRW, and with eco-friendly tax benefits applied, the vehicle can be purchased at a price 1.43 million KRW lower. Detailed specifications such as confirmed prices, official fuel efficiency, and combined output will be disclosed upon the vehicle’s release.