Renault has produced a specially designed version of its Rafale SUV for the French Presidency. Built on the Renault Rafale Hyper Hybrid E-Tech 4x4 platform, the one-off vehicle includes a combination of hybrid technology, comfort features, and discreet security upgrades intended to meet the needs of the French Head of State.
What's so special about it?
The car was developed in collaboration with the Élysée Palace and a group of expert French artisans. The exterior features several subtle nods to national identity, including a custom “Bleu Présidence” paint colour that integrates a special pigment designed to limit heat absorption by up to 10°C, improving in-cabin comfort during official duties. Under direct sunlight, this paintwork reveals a shimmering tricolour glitter effect as blue, white and red flecks are subtly embedded in the finish.
Other symbolic details include blue-white-red badges on the front doors and a custom front grille bearing the colours of the French flag. Two discreet flag holders are hidden behind small flaps near the bonnet and can be deployed for official occasions. These touches are intentionally understated, offering presidential presence without ostentation. The rear doors have also been upgraded to soft-close for smoother, quieter operation during formal arrivals and departures.
Beneath the surface, the chassis and suspention has been adapted and tuned to manage the additional weight of integrated armouring, while retaining balance and comfort. The Presidential Renault Rafale also features 20-inch Chicane alloy wheels, all-weather Michelin tyres, and four-wheel steering to enhance stability and manoeuvrability on both urban and rural routes.
What about the cabin?
Inside, the rear seating area has been transformed into a fully functional mobile office. A bespoke centre console upholstered in Alcantara has been fitted between the rear seats, designed to accommodate both secure storage and onboard working needs.
The cabin also includes several examples of French craftsmanship, the most noticeable being the use of Noir Grand Antique marble from the Pyrenees on the dashboard, rear centre console, and steering wheel. The luxe materials don't stop there, as the cabin also features handcrafted dark beech wood marquetry, created by Paris-based artisan Ludovic Avenel. Marquetry is a decorative technique where small pieces of wood are inlaid to form patterns or images, which is often seen in high-end furniture or jewellery boxes.
The upholstery was produced in Renault's own workshops using specially sourced leather offcuts, re-dyed in a specific blue shade that matches the official colour chart of the French Republic. Each headrest features a laser-engraved version of the French coat of arms, which includes a pelta, lictor's fasces, and olive and oak branches.
What about protection?
Centigon, a French manufacturer specialising in mobile protection, provided the armouring and safety systems. These have been subtly integrated into the Rafale's structure without disrupting the vehicle's external or internal design. The result is a presidential car that delivers on both safety and state presence, without appearing overtly militarised.
This custom-built Presidential Renault Rafale continues a 105-year relationship between Renault and the French Presidency, a tradition that began in 1920 with the Renault 40 CV used by President Paul Deschanel. Since then, Renault has provided a series of adapted state vehicles, including the Reinastella and the Safrane Limousine.