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Renault Symbioz 1.6 E-Tech FHEV 145 Techno Esprit Alpine 5dr Auto Review

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The sole engine option is a full hybrid set-up that combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with twin electric motors for 143bhp in total. Thanks to those motors, the Symbioz never feels sluggish around town, but it’s not so punchy on the open road – 0-62mpg takes 10.6sec.

1.6 E-Tech FHEV 145

Estate

Hatchbacks, SUVs, hybrids, electric cars: Renault makes them all, in a variety of shapes and sizes, meaning&nbsp;it has a line-up designed to tempt pretty much everyone.

From the roadside, the standout feature of all its cars is design, with them instantly recognisable as members of the Renault family, without being so similar that they fall&nbsp;into the Russian doll trap. However, in terms of ability they're a mixed bag,&nbsp;ranging&nbsp;from very good to no better than average.

Models that fall into the former camp include the Clio small hatchback and Megane E-Tech electric car, while the smaller Zoe electric car is also impressive in most respects; it's just a pity Renault omits key safety kit.

On the other hand, the Captur, Arkana and Austral SUVs are all outclassed by several rivals.

Renault has some exciting new models planned, including a new Scenic (this time it will be an electric SUV instead of a conventionally powered MPV) and two cars that reimagine classic Renaults: the 4 and 5.

RENAULT

SYMBIOZ

Techno Esprit Alpine is the mid-range spec and adds electrically adjustable, heated front seats, a hands-free powered tailgate, blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance and rear cross-traffic assist. The alloy wheels are upgraded to 19in.

Techno Esprit Alpine

1.6 E-Tech FHEV 145 Techno Esprit Alpine 5dr Auto

16-e-tech-fhev-145-techno-esprit-alpine-5dr-auto

Electronic parking brake with auto hold function

Electric adjustable/heated/auto folding door mirrors

Driver and front passenger, side, head and curtain airbags

Wifi smartphone integration compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Driver and front passenger seat with electric height adjustment

Rear cross traffic/pedestrian alert with rear braking assitance

Front and rear electric windows with driver window one touch facility and anti pitch function

The Renault Symbioz hybrid family SUV trades punches with the Nissan Qashqai in many areas, and lands some heavy blows when it comes to economy, practicality and price. If those factors are priorities for you, it's well worth a look. It gives too much away on driver appeal and performance to trouble the very best family SUVs though. Mid-spec Techno Esprit Alpine is the best choice for buyers.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Comfortable ride </li> <li>Feature-filled infotainment </li> <li>Space for child seats </li> <li>Robust build quality </li> <li>Practical storage spaces </li> <li>A boot fit for a family holiday </li> <li>Fuel-efficient engines</li></ul>

While we define a small SUV&nbsp;as something&nbsp;less than 4.3 metres long and a large SUV as measuring more than 4.5 metres, family SUVs tread the middle ground.

As the name suggests, the vast majority are&nbsp;designed for family duties rather than serious off-roading, so practicality is paramount. However, that&nbsp;shouldn't come at the expense of a decent drive; the best examples combine tidy handling with smooth engines&nbsp;and a ride that's comfortable&nbsp;enough to ensure the kids aren't left feeling queasy.

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Renault Symbioz 1.6 E-Tech FHEV 145 Techno Esprit Alpine 5dr Auto Review

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