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Renault
Korea sets sights on 2026 market rebound
By Nam
Hyun-woo, The Korea Times - Renault Korea is seeking to capitalize on a
recovery forecast for the domestic car market in 2026 by extending its momentum
from the strong performance of the Grand Koleos with the launch of the Aurora 2
next year.
The
domestic automobile market is expected to show gradual recovery in 2026, with
sales projected to reach 1.69 million vehicles next year, up 0.8 percent from
this year, driven by expanded subsidies for electric vehicles (EVs) and the
scheduled launch of new models.
Carmakers
are set to roll out 16 new models next year, expanding their lineups with a
focus on EVs and hybrid vehicles. As both premium and mass-market brands
accelerate their lineup expansions, industry officials expect consumer
sentiment to recover gradually.
Renault
Korea is looking to capitalize on the expected momentum through its Aurora
project. The initiative is part of Renault Group’s mid-term strategy, under
which Renault Korea will take the lead in developing three new models and
pursue a phased transition from an internal combustion engine-focused lineup to
hybrids and EVs.
Renault
launched the Grand Koleos last year as the first vehicle of the project. The
midsize SUV marked a clear turning point for the company in the domestic
market, surpassing cumulative sales of 50,000 vehicles in Korea within a year
of its debut. The model has since been exported to 24 countries.
The
Grand Koleos gained a favorable market response for its hybrid powertrain,
which delivers 242 horsepower while achieving fuel efficiency of 15.7
kilometers per liter. By covering a significant portion of urban driving in
electric mode, it enhanced drivers’ views on the efficiency of electric
driving.
Building
on that success will be the Aurora 2, which is expected to make its domestic
debut next year. While its official name and detailed specifications have yet
to be disclosed, teaser photos suggest the model will be a large, coupe-style
SUV equipped with a hybrid powertrain.
“As
the domestic car market is expected to show a gradual recovery next year,
brands that can expand their lineups based on market-proven models are expected
to be at a relative advantage,” an industry official said.
“Based
on the product planning capabilities and market responsiveness demonstrated by
the Grand Koleos, Renault Korea is expected to secure a meaningful share in the
domestic market with the Aurora 2.”
