Renault has started accepting orders for the Rafale, its new hybrid-powered coupe SUV.

As a close relation to the Austral, the Rafale further reinforces Renault's intention to move into premium segments.

Prices for the new model start at £38,195.

The Rafale competes with the Audi Q5 Sportback as well as the surge of upmarket entrants from other French brands, including the Citroen C5 X and Peugeot 408.

It has similar dimensions to the Mercedes GLC Coupe and a boot capacity of up to 647 litres, which is around 150 litres more than a Nissan Qashqai.

Two hybrid powertrains will be available. The first is a 200PS hybrid unit, carried over from the Austral, which is available to order now. There will also be a 300PS plug-in hybrid version with all-wheel-drive, at a later date.

The Rafale differs from Renault's current design language, with a more angular and aggressive look. It's interior features the twin-screen OpenR digital cockpit, that debuted on the Megane E-Tech.

A range of upmarket features are available, including a Harman Kardon sound system and a full length glass roof which features special glass that can be darkened and the touch of a button.

Renault states that the Rafale offers a high level of driving pleasure, with steering and suspension settings to promote sporty driving. Like the Austral, the Rafale is also equipped with a four-wheel steering system for enhanced dynamics and easier manoeuvrability.

The 200PS E-Tech hybrid powertrain mates a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with two electric motors and a small battery. It achieves CO2 emissions of 105-107g/km and promises 60mpg.

The plug-in hybrid will feature an additional electric motor on the rear axle, providing all-wheel-drive and boosting power to 300PS. The battery will also be much larger, although final specifications are yet to be revealed.

Three versions make up the Renault Rafale range, starting with the Techno trim priced at £38,195. Its standard specification includes 20-inch alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitor, LED front and rear lights, a 12-inch central touchcreen, wireless phone charger, dual-zone climate control, front and rear park assist, and a rear-view camera.

The Techno Esprit Alpine (£42,195) brings Esprit Alpine exterior styling, alcantara upholstery, matrix LED headlights, heated and electrically adjustable front seats, a heated windscreen, heated steering wheel, head-up display and 4Control Advanced four-wheel steering.

The range-topping Iconic Esprit Alpine (£44,695) adds the Solarbay panoramic sunroof, electric folding wing mirrors with memory and auto-tilt when reversing, 12 speaker Harman Kardon audio system and 360-degree camera.