Renault Filante is the new large SUV produced in Busan for international markets
Renault Filante: The New Global Top of the Range Prepares for Takeoff on January 13
In today's automotive landscape, where the SUV segment continues to dominate consumer preferences, Renault is taking a bold step into the premium segment. The French manufacturer has officially confirmed the name of its new large crossover: Filante. Inspired by the brand's aeronautical history and speed records, Filante is not just a new model, but a statement of strength for international markets.
A Record-Breaking Legacy: From the Etoile Filante to the Modern SUV
The name chosen is not accidental. Renault took its name from the legendary 1956 Etoile Filante (Shooting Star) single-seater, an experimental turbine-powered vehicle that set world speed records on the Bonneville Salt Flats.
In its modern version, Filante will be an E-segment SUV (large class), positioned above current models in Europe, such as the Austral or Rafale. This is the fifth vehicle out of eight foreseen in the "International Game Plan 2027" strategy, through which Renault wants to consolidate its presence outside the Old Continent.
Technical and Production Details
- Production Location: Busan Plant, South Korea.
- Platform: It is expected to use the CMA (Compact Modular Architecture) architecture, developed in partnership with the Geely group (also used by Volvo or Polestar models).
- Release: The official debut is scheduled for January 13, 2026, in Seoul.
- Market: Initially it will be sold exclusively in South Korea, and will later be exported to regions such as Asia, Africa and Latin America.
Renault in Romania: A Strategy Based on SUVs and Electrification
While Filante is preparing to conquer Asia, in Romania, Renault is going through one of its best periods in the last decade. The brand's local strategy has focused heavily on "conquering" the C and D segments with competitive SUV models.
1. Dominance in the Compact SUV Segment
Renault has managed to become one of the best-selling import brands in Romania, thanks to the success of models such as:
- Captur: It remains one of the preferred options for the urban environment, offering an excellent mix of price and features.
- Arkana: The coupé SUV attracted a new audience, eager for a sporty design at an affordable price, being a major sales driver in 2024 and 2025.
- Austral & Rafale: These models allowed Renault to compete directly with premium brands, offering advanced technologies (such as the 4Control system) and efficient hybrid engines.
2. The Bet on E-Tech Technology
The brand's success in Romania is closely linked to hybrid technology. Over 40% of Renault's sales on the local market are now represented by electrified vehicles. Romanian customers have started to prefer Full Hybrid engines (E-Tech 145/200), which offer low consumption without depending on the charging infrastructure, still deficient in certain regions.
3. Positioning towards Dacia
Although they are part of the same group, Renault has managed to clearly distance itself from Dacia in Romania. While the Dacia Bigster focuses on pragmatism and space, the Renault models (Austral, Rafale) are positioned as "lifestyle" solutions, with state-of-the-art digital interiors and high-quality materials.
Conclusion: Will Filante reach Romania?
Although the initial launch is targeting South Korea and non-European markets, there is speculation about a possible adaptation for Europe in the long term, if demand for large SUVs continues to grow. Currently, customers in Romania have the top-of-the-range Rafale at their disposal, which serves as the brand's technological "flagship" in the region.