The 2026 Renault Filante: Australia's Next Flagship SUV?
The Renault Filante, a Korean-built hybrid SUV with Chinese roots, is set to make its global debut in 2026. This five-seater behemoth, measuring nearly five meters in length, is Renault's largest model worldwide. But here's the intriguing part: it won't be sold in Europe, where the Rafale remains the flagship.
Built on the Common Modular Architecture (CMA) from Geely, a Chinese parent company of Volvo and Polestar, the Filante is an enlarged version of the Grand Koleos, closely related to the Geely Xingyue L SUV. It diverges from the Renault-Nissan Alliance Common Modular Family (CMF) architecture used in other Renault SUVs like the Austral, Espace, and Rafale, as well as the Nissan X-Trail and Mitsubishi Outlander.
The Filante's launch is set for South Korea in March, followed by Middle Eastern and Latin American markets early next year. While a local launch hasn't been ruled out, it's estimated to be at least 12 months away for Australian showrooms. Renault hasn't confirmed right-hand-drive production for the Filante or its smaller sibling, the Grand Koleos.
With dimensions similar to the Mazda CX-70 and Jaecoo J8, the Filante boasts a spacious interior. It features a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine matched with two electric motors, delivering a combined system output of 184kW and up to 565Nm. Inside, it boasts three 12.3-inch screens, an augmented-reality head-up display, and an Android Automotive-based infotainment system with over-the-air software updates.
Available features include 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels, color interior ambient lighting, smartphone and tablet holders, four USB-C charging ports, and a wireless smartphone charger. An eight-speaker Arkamys audio system is standard, with a 10-speaker Bose system optional. It also offers a digital rear-view mirror, 360-degree camera with transparent view, and automatic parking system.
In South Korea, the Filante will be available in Techno, Iconic, and Esprit Alpine grades. The Esprit Alpine variant adds a black-painted rear section, black or light grey upholstery with blue, white, and red stitching, and a backlit Alpine logo on the seats.
Active safety features include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, highway driving assist, lane-keep assist, emergency steering, rear occupant detection, and intelligent speed limit assist.
Is Australia Missing Out?
The Filante's potential arrival in Australia raises questions. With its impressive features and dimensions, could it be a game-changer for the local market? What do you think? Agree or disagree? Share your thoughts in the comments!
