This Upcoming Renault Hybrid SUV Will Be Based On Volvo’s Underpinnings

• New SUV to be produced in Korea for overseas markets. 

• It’s been co-developed with China-based Geely that also owns Volvo. 

• The SUV is based on the Volvo Compact Modular Platform similar to the Volvo XC40. 

• No word on India launch, could be brought in as a fully-built (CBU) import. 

European carmaker Renault has teased its upcoming hybrid SUV for global markets, previewing its future lineup of models co-developed with China-based Geely. Since Geely owns Volvo, Renault will be enabled to use Volvo’s CMA platform and components for its SUV. 

Renault hybrid SUV will use Volvo components 

The Volvo Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) underpins the Scandinavian carmaker’s C40 and XC40 SUVs. The CMA platform supports ICE powertrains as well as different levels of electrification, from mild-hybrid to plug-in and all-electric drivetrains. 

Renault has disclosed precious little about its upcoming SUV, so we aren’t sure which powertrain options it could offer. Depending on the variant, the aforementioned Volvo SUVs are offered with a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine paired with a mild hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain alongside a 2-litre turbo petrol mild-hybrid unit. 

According to Renault, the SUV will be a ‘D-segment’ offering, which indicates that it’ll be a family SUV sized similar to the Skoda Kodiaq. 

Could the Renault SUV come to India?

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Currently, Renault only offers budget and compact models in India, such as the Kwid, Triber and Kiger. The carmaker hasn’t indicated the intent to bring any of its global cars to India for now, but things could change in the next two years as Renault’s plans and the Indian market itself, evolve. 

Renault Korea Motors is launching an all-new vehicle lineup including fuel-efficient Hybrid #Electric Vehicles (HEV) and based on a new platform for both local and export markets starting 2024.
To learn more: https://t.co/oHuEI8X9bF pic.twitter.com/VT6ccpkM0h

— Renault Group (@renaultgroup) October 11, 2022

The Geely-Renault SUV will be produced in Korea, so if it does come to India, it’s likely to be an expensive offering owing to the steep taxes and customs duties imposed on completely built-up (CBU) imports. Nevertheless, future models from the partnership are likely to be considered for the Indian market. 

Also read: 

• Renault Hints Electric Vehicle Plans For India; Will Bring Only Dedicated EVs

• Volvo Updates Entire Portfolio Of ICE Models With 2023 XC40, XC90, XC60 SUVs And S90 Sedan

For now, Renault plans to bring ground-up electric vehicles (EVs) to our shores, likely all-new India-specific EVs that will be more affordable than expensive global models imported as CBUs. 

However, the market has begun warming up to hybrid vehicles as well, with recently launched relatively affordable cars such as the Honda City hybrid, and the strong-hybrid Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder SUVs. It’s not far-fetched to think that Renault may consider bringing a hybrid model from overseas in the future.