Renault has just unveiled its new model for the C-SUV segment, the Renault Austral . As we've been anticipating in recent weeks, it's the direct successor to the now-discontinued Kadjar, and we could also say it's a close relative of the Nissan Qashqai, as it's built on the same CMF-CD platform.
In this way, the Renault brand aims to reclaim its leadership in the mid-size SUV segment , where it faces stiff competition from rivals such as the Qashqai, the Seat Ateca, the Hyundai Tucson, the Kia Sportage, and the Peugeot 3008, among others. It's worth noting that this category is crucial for brands operating in the European market.
This is the Renault Austral on the outside
While there's no accounting for taste, it seems Renault has succeeded in creating a product with a strong brand identity that resonates well with European tastes . It features the brand's signature lighting style and those distinctive headlight extensions, a substantial grille, and the new, flat logo. As we can see, it shares many aesthetic similarities with the electric Renault Megane E-Tech we recently saw.
The side profile displays the typical muscularity of SUVs, with prominent wheel arches, side skirts, and numerous character lines along the flanks, creating a slightly raised waistline and defined hips . Additionally, the body can be finished in black with a black roof and pillars. Incidentally, the wheels are available in sizes from 17 to 20 inches.
Meanwhile, the rear is distinguished by the design of the LED taillights: very thin, elongated, and boomerang-shaped —another of Renault's signature features that makes its cars easily recognizable at night from many meters away. A roof spoiler adds a sporty touch, and the lower section includes protective cladding.
In terms of dimensions, the Renault Austral measures 4,51 meters in length, 1,83 meters in width and 1,62 meters in height, with a wheelbase of 2,67 meters.
With Google integrated into the infotainment
Inside, it follows the design language we recently saw in the electric Megane E-Tech. There's a multi-configurable digital instrument cluster, and to the right, in a vertical orientation, is the infotainment system with integrated Google , which we tested in the aforementioned electric hatchback and which pleasantly surprised us. The instrument cluster screen is 12,3 inches, and the central screen is 10 inches.
“It is also a positive detail that the air conditioning is handled with some physical keys located just below the screen.”
The steering wheel is identical to that of the Megane, with buttons to control the different functions of the car in a glossy black finish, as well as a circular button on the left side with which we will manage the driving modes of the Multi-Sense system.
The images show that, despite a good sense of spaciousness, the center console feels somewhat wide and blends seamlessly into the dashboard. This area includes USB and 12-volt outlets, a sliding armrest with a hand (or wrist) rest, a wireless charging tray , and a dual-opening storage compartment at elbow height.
Sliding rear row and 500 liters of boot space
We haven't yet had the chance to sit in this new Renault Austral, but the brand has already told us that the front seats can be electrically adjustable, heated, and massage-only. Even more remarkable, however, is the ability to slide the second row of seats forward or backward, distributing the space between passengers and cargo by a full 16 centimeters. The seatbacks can also be reclined in three positions.
And since we've mentioned the trunk, the Austral's cargo capacity is 500 liters , expandable to 575 liters if the second row is moved to its forward position. In the case of the E-Tech hybrid powertrains, the trunk volume is 430 liters. Incidentally, this trunk can be accessed by passing your foot under the bumper.
Only mechanical mild hybrid and non-plug-in hybrid
One point that might not please everyone is that the Renault Austral won't be available with diesel engines , which, based on experience, we know are very appealing for this type of vehicle; although it's true that their demand is steadily declining. Furthermore, no all-wheel-drive variant has been presented; all versions are front-wheel drive.
On one hand, we have two mild hybrid versions, producing 140 and 160 hp . In addition, there are two conventional hybrid options, which develop 160 and 200 hp . And, at least for the time being, that will be the engine lineup. Conventional diesel or gasoline versions, as well as electric or plug-in hybrid options, have not been confirmed.
In other aspects, the Renault Austral will be available with the 4Control Advanced system , the latest evolution of rear-wheel steering. This feature is particularly useful for urban driving, as the rear wheels turn up to 5 degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels, significantly reducing the turning radius and allowing for much better maneuverability.
When does it hit the market?
Of course, the prices for the new Renault Austral are still unknown. The exact launch date hasn't been announced either, although everything seems to indicate it will be released at the beginning of summer.
Gallery Renault Austral
Source – Renault