Renault Korea has unveiled the crossover “FILANTE” (photo), the second outcome of its electrification strategy “Aurora Project,” in a world premiere. As its annual sales fell below the 100,000-unit mark last year for the first time in four years, raising a sense of crisis, the company aims to use this new model to drive simultaneous growth in both domestic sales and exports.

On the 13th, Renault Korea revealed the FILANTE in the metal and began taking orders at the Walkerhill Hotel in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul. Positioned as a crossover combining the comfort of a sedan with the practicality of a sport utility vehicle (SUV), the FILANTE is intended to build on the momentum of the “Grand Koleos,” which was launched in the second half of the year before last (July–December).

Renault Korea’s annual sales last year stood at 88,044 units, a 17.7% decline from 106,939 units the previous year. While domestic sales increased by more than 30% thanks to the strong performance of the Grand Koleos, export volumes plummeted. The FILANTE is seen as a strategic model to fill the export gap while sustaining domestic growth.

The FILANTE has a length of 4,915 mm and a width of 1,890 mm, and adopts a coupe-style roofline to emphasize dynamism. The front end highlights a futuristic image with an “illuminated signature lozenge logo” and “grille lighting,” while the rear adds originality with an aerodynamically designed rear window and three-dimensional styling.

It is equipped with Renault’s latest E-Tech hybrid system, combining a 1.5-liter gasoline turbo engine with a 100 kW motor to deliver a maximum output of 250 horsepower. Combined fuel efficiency is 15.1 km per liter (with 19-inch tires). Its 1.64 kWh battery enables driving on electricity alone for up to 75% of urban trips. The interior is designed under a “premium tech lounge” concept, featuring active noise cancellation technology, 12.3-inch triple screens, and an artificial intelligence (AI) voice assistant.

The FILANTE will be produced at the Busan plant, with customer deliveries scheduled to begin in March. Renault Korea has set the starting prices for the FILANTE (based on eco-friendly vehicle tax benefits) at KRW 43,319,000 for the Techno trim, KRW 46,969,000 for the Iconic, and KRW 49,719,000 for the Esprit Alpine.

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