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How to Use the Renault Symbioz Hybrid’s Regenerative Braking and Drive Modes

D is for normal driving; B adds regenerative deceleration when you lift off. Learn how battery conditions affect recovery and how MULTI-SENSE modes fit into the Symbioz hybrid system.
Entry925 Date Time2 min MechanicCarCody Team
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Use D for normal forward driving and select B when you want stronger deceleration as you lift off the accelerator. B increases regenerative braking, but it does not replace the brake pedal. The Symbioz’s hybrid system chooses electric and combustion power automatically; a MULTI-SENSE mode does not guarantee electric-only driving.

What regenerative braking does in the Symbioz Hybrid

When the car slows, its electric motor and/or regenerative braking system can convert some of that motion into electrical energy. The system uses that energy to slow the vehicle and recharge the traction battery. Energy recovery can happen when you lift off the accelerator and when you press the brake pedal.

Regeneration varies with conditions. Renault says B-mode regenerative braking is reduced when the traction battery is cold or fully charged. If the car slows less than you expect, use the brake pedal as needed.

When to use D and B

Selector position What to expect When to choose it
D Normal forward-drive setting. Ordinary driving.
B Stronger regenerative deceleration when you release the accelerator. The electric motor generates a higher electrical current, allowing the traction battery to recharge as the car slows; the effect can be reduced if the battery is cold or fully charged. When you want more deceleration and energy recovery as you lift off.

Renault warns: “The engine brake should under no circumstances be used as a substitute for the brake pedal.” B does not mean the car will always slow at the same rate, and the cited Renault guidance does not quantify fuel savings from using it.

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How MULTI-SENSE drive modes affect the hybrid system

The Symbioz hybrid system selects the combustion engine, electric motor, or a combination of both according to driving style, traffic conditions, and the selected MULTI-SENSE mode. A mode is one input to the automatic system—not a promise of electric-only travel or a fixed engine response.

MULTI-SENSE settings can affect engine response, steering effort, vehicle dynamics, climate, ambient lighting, and other equipment. Renault’s general OpenR Link guidance lists possible modes such as Eco, Sport, Comfort, Perso, Snow, All Terrain, and Smart, but availability varies by vehicle and equipment. Check the fitted menu and the handbook for your specific Symbioz rather than assuming every mode is present.

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Changing settings safely

Renault advises making MULTI-SENSE adjustments while the vehicle is stationary. Exact controls can vary with the vehicle’s equipment and market, so use the instructions for your own Symbioz rather than relying on a sequence from another Renault model.

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