Renault Austral Video Review

Published on 14 December, 2023

Is it a worthy successor to the Kadjar?

Highlights

Overview

A new rival to the likes of the Nissan Qashqai and Ford Kuga – the Austral will be available with a single Hybrid powertrain.

Interior Gallery

The boot measures in at a respectable 430 litres, and it can be configured to prioritize either rear seat legroom or extra boot space, similar to the Ford Kuga. However, the slight load lip may make loading heavier items a bit awkward. The rear seat legroom is good, with minimal obstruction in the middle, making it suitable for carrying three kids. Access to two sets of Isofix anchors for child seats is easy due to the generous legroom and wide rear doors. Additionally, there are USB ports for charging, and the electric closing tailgate adds a touch of sophistication.

The entry-level Techno model starts at about €45,000 and comes with generous standard equipment. It includes 19-inch alloy wheels, a heads-up display, Matrix LED headlights, a large 12.3-inch touchscreen, another 12.3-inch display behind the wheel, drive mode select, a reversing camera, cruise control, and ambient lighting.

Moving up to the Techno Esprit Alpine, you get additional features such as 20-inch wheels, an electric tailgate, electric adjustment in the driver's seats, and enhanced safety elements like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition.

At the top tier is the Iconic Esprit Alpine, priced at €53,000. This version includes an impressive 360-degree parking camera to safeguard those 20-inch wheels, offering a bird's-eye view of your surroundings for easier parallel parking. Other notable Iconic features comprise a Harmon-Kardon stereo, upgraded seats, a panoramic roof, and 4Control four-wheel steering.

The Austral is equipped with a 1.3l turbocharged petrol engine supported by two electric motors and a 2kWh battery. This combination gives it a more robust performance than a standard 1.3-liter petrol engine. Renault categorizes it as a self-charging hybrid, meaning there's no need to plug it in. Instead, it offers electric-powered assistance to enhance fuel economy, resulting in a smooth and quiet driving experience.

In terms of fuel efficiency, it performs impressively in real-world conditions, averaging around 5.5 liters per 100 kilometers. This is akin to diesel efficiency but with a refined semi-electric feel and the added convenience of an automatic transmission. The Austral is characterized by its comfortable driving experience, handling bumps well, and the four-wheel steering provides a precise feel, particularly on twisty roads.

While it may not be described as "fun" to drive, it offers a pleasant and easy driving experience, which is particularly well-suited for family use. The safety systems are effective without being overly intrusive, providing a sense of reassurance when needed.

The Austral represents a notable advancement from the Kadjar, which itself was already an impressive package. Despite the fierce competition in the SUV market, this model stands out as a strong contender. If you're in search of a stylish and comfortable SUV with plenty of tech, the Austral is a car that should definitely be on your shopping list.

Facts & Figures

Sinead McCann

Sinéad is our resident car tester who has the unenviable (-ok, slightly enviable) task of reviewing all the latest new cars to hit the market. You can follow her on Twitter @smcani and on Instagram @whatshedrives