Second Aurora Project model combines bold design with refined hybrid performance
Renault Korea has unveiled the Filante crossover, the second model in its Aurora Project lineup. This new vehicle aims to build upon the sales success of the Grand Koleos SUV from the previous year.
The Filante, a hybrid flagship developed entirely at Renault Korea’s R&D center in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, enhances the dynamic performance of its sibling, the Grand Koleos, while introducing sedan-like comfort. This crossover presents a modern interpretation of the Renault Group’s signature crossover DNA.
The design of the Filante takes a bolder approach compared to the Grand Koleos. While maintaining the general SUV silhouette, the Filante features a sharply contoured exterior and a sportier interior, providing a more distinctive and eye-catching aesthetic.
During a media briefing held in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, Renault’s R&D center officials acknowledged initial internal concerns about the crossover’s design being “too bold” for some consumers. However, since its global debut in Seoul in January, the Filante has received positive feedback on its design, with preorders exceeding 7,000 units, showcasing strong consumer interest.
The defining characteristic of the Filante lies in its refined driving experience.
This crossover incorporates advanced tuning optimized for Renault’s Smart Frequency Damper system, resulting in enhanced stability and a more comfortable ride. The system effectively minimizes minor vibrations at medium to high speeds, offering a driving sensation akin to that of a sedan.
This balance was demonstrated during a 140-kilometer media test drive in Gyeongju, encompassing city roads, highways, and winding mountain routes.
Powered by a 250-horsepower E-Tech hybrid system – a 5-horsepower increase over the Grand Koleos – the Filante maintained composure on winding roads with minimal body roll.
Acceleration was also notably responsive. In Sport mode, the vehicle delivered a sharper throttle response compared to Comfort mode. In AI mode, the system learns the driver’s acceleration patterns over approximately 10 minutes and intelligently suggests the most appropriate setting among Eco, Comfort, and Sport modes.
Despite its powerful hybrid output, the Filante’s cabin remained remarkably quiet. Active Noise Cancellation, standard across all trims, works in conjunction with improved door sealing and added sound insulation to further enhance ride comfort.
The Filante is also the first vehicle in Korea to feature SK Telecom’s AI agent, A.Dot Auto, underscoring Renault Korea’s commitment to software-defined vehicles. This system enables natural and context-aware voice interactions and can recommend routes or control in-car functions. However, during the test drive, the system occasionally struggled to fully recognize voice commands while driving.
The Filante’s design emphasizes sleekness. The lighting elements extend outward from Renault’s iconic diamond-shaped emblem and integrate with sharp daytime running lights, creating a sophisticated front profile. The gently sloping roofline further accentuates the crossover’s streamlined silhouette.
Inside, Renault Korea highlights its “premium tech lounge” concept. Newly designed first-class lounge seats and ample legroom contribute to reduced fatigue on longer journeys, while a panoramic glass roof stretching from the front to the second row enhances the feeling of spaciousness.
After covering 60.6 kilometers, the test vehicle achieved an average fuel economy of 13.2 kilometers per liter. The official combined fuel efficiency rating for the Filante is 15.1 kilometers per liter, suggesting that the lower figure observed during the test drive may have been influenced by the frequent use of Sport mode.
Available exclusively as a full hybrid, the Filante starts at 43.32 million won ($29,200) for the Techno trim, inclusive of eco-friendly tax benefits, while the top-of-the-line Esprit Alpine trim is priced at 49.72 million won.
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