Built upon the Renault–Nissan CMF-CD platform, it shares about 75 percent of its parts and design features with the SUV Espace and Austral models.

[2] Codenamed 'DHN', the vehicle is the second coupe SUV produced by the brand after the Arkana compact crossover.

In Renault's lineup, the vehicle is positioned between the Arkana and the slightly larger Espace VI.

The Rafale received a new plug-in hybrid powertrain with 300 hp (220 kW) and all-wheel drive by installing an electric motor at the rear.

[7] Available in both full-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, the full-hybrid model includes an engine and one traction motor at the front axle 50 kW (67 hp; 68 PS) for a FWD layout (combined output of 146 kW (196 hp; 199 PS)).