RENAULT has revealed details of its new Symbioz medium-sized SUV that will be a rival to the likes of the Nissan Qashqai.

The French car maker says its newcomer continues the sprit of its innovative family-oriented designs that began with the Renault 16 almost 60 years ago and continued with vehicles such as the Espace and Scenic.

The Symbioz follows on from the recent Scenic E-Tech electric and is the latest all-new model in Renault's current product offensive.

Positioned below the Austral SUV, the Symbioz measures 4.41 metres long, weighs in at under 1,500 kg and features an E-Tech hybrid 145 powertrain - a hybrid 1.6-litre system that is claimed to be capable of more than 61mpg.

With boot capacity of up to 624 litres it also features Renault's OpenR Link multimedia system with Google built-in as well as the Solarbay opacifying glass sunroof and up to 24 new-generation driving aids for optimised safety and driving comfort.

The rear bench is designed to slide over 16 cm, creating knee room of 221 mm for passengers at the rear, while also maintaining a boot capacity of 492 litres in this configuration.

When the rear seats are not occupied by adults, the bench seat slides forward to increase boot capacity up to 1,582 litres with the rear seats fully folded.

After the Arkana, Megane E-Tech electric, Austral and Scenic E-Tech electric, the Symbioz completes the range of compact Renault vehicles, as the last vehicle in the Renaulution offensive.

The top specification Iconic Esprit Alpine model will feature a Solarbay sunroof which can tint automatically.

Prices and final specifications are still to be confirmed but it is understood Renault is planning to introduce the newcomer for under £30,000 when it arrives later in the year.