We tested the new 160 hp Renault Simbioz hybrid, the most powerful and efficient version, with a starting price of around 30,000 euros.

Francesc Pla

Engine: 4 cyl. Gasoline + 2 electric Displacement: 1,789 cc Maximum power: 160 hp Transmission: Aut. Traction: Front Acceleration 0-100 km / h: 9.1 seconds Maximum speed: 180 km / h Combined consumption: 4.4 liters (WLTP) CO2 emissions: 99 g / km (WLTP) DGT label: ECO Length / width / height: 441/180/157 cm Trunk: 548 liters Tank: 48 liters Weight: 1,465 kg Warranty: 5 years Price: 33,859 euros (with discount) renault.es

Renault has just unveiled its Symbioz model with the new E-Tech 160 full hybrid engine, the most powerful and fuel-efficient in its range. The French brand thus becomes an expert in non-plug-in hybrid powertrains, as it has also introduced the new E-Tech 200 full hybrid for the Espace. This is a firm commitment to energy efficiency, as demonstrated by the fact that half of the Renault cars sold in Spain already have this technology. In any case, the popularity of E-Tech full hybrid engines has led the diamond brand to provide the Symbioz with a new, more powerful engine to maintain and enhance its commercial appeal.

We must remember that the Symbioz arrived in 2024 and that Renault positions it between the smaller Captur and the slightly larger Austral . This compact SUV, manufactured in Valladolid, debuts a major new feature: an improved 160-hp E-Tech hybrid version that replaces the previous 145-hp version.

On a purely technical level, the new E-Tech full hybrid engine combines a gasoline engine with two electric motors, a larger battery, and a multi-mode gearbox. But there are new features, such as the 1.8-liter non-turbo gasoline engine with 109 hp, the 1.4 kWh battery, and the new gearbox with smoother software.

The result is a total power output of 160 hp, allowing the Symbioz to increase its performance and reduce fuel consumption. It boasts an average fuel consumption of 4.3 liters according to WLTP certification and low CO2 emissions of just 98 g/km. And, of course, it also carries the DGT Eco label.

The main electric motor has 50 hp and drives the front wheels and also powers the 1.4 kWh battery, which is cooled by the air conditioning system for greater range in electric mode. The second electric motor has 20 hp and is used for gear changes. This is a significant improvement, as the shifting now works faster and smoother.

On the other hand, this Renault transmission has an unusual technological complexity. Thus, the electric motors operate in neutral, first, and second gears, while the gasoline engine operates in the remaining gears. There are 15 possible combinations in total, considering that the electric motors can be decoupled to operate as gasoline, and vice versa. And it has no clutch to facilitate smoother operation.

E-Tech technology also allows driving in different configurations: 100% electric, with the electric motor driving the wheels, with the combustion engine and electric motor combined, or with the electric motor generating traction while the combustion engine recharges the battery. And, of course, in combustion mode, in which only the gasoline engine is running. Additionally, we have an energy recovery mode, very useful in the city when braking.

In a very pleasant, fairly spacious cabin finished with quality materials, the large, vertically positioned central touchscreen and all the connectivity provided by Google services stand out. We found minor modifications such as the shape of the gear lever, which has been transformed into a small, practical button that is quick and intuitive to use.

We start off by default in electric mode, with complete silence, although the electric range is limited and only enough to cover some urban stretches, thus reducing fuel consumption. However, it's a comfortable SUV, easy to drive and friendly. Renault claims we can drive in electric mode 80% of the time in the city, and up to 105 km/h.

With a less sporty feel than other models on the market, it has family-friendly steering and suspension. Exactly what the French brand is looking for in the Symbioz. Sport mode changes things up a bit, but not excessively. In any case, it's an SUV that performs very well as a family vehicle, fuels economically, and is easy and comfortable to drive. It also has a truly practical size, 4.41 meters long, and a 548-liter trunk that can be increased to 708 liters if we remove the rear seat. Incidentally, the seat can be moved longitudinally by up to 16 centimeters to adapt the cargo space to every need.

Finally, Renault sells four versions of the Symbioz in our market with the new 160-hp E-Tech full-hybrid engine: Evolution (€30,019), Techno (€32,419), Espirit Alpine (€33,859), and Iconic (€35,299). These prices include the brand's minimum discount.