New Renault Austral hybrid SUV arrives in Portugal from €33,300
Austral, that’s what Renault’s new mid-size SUV is called who comes to take Kadjar’s place and whose version with E-Tech Hybrid hybrid enginein the top equipment version – Iconic Esprit Alpine – we got to know better on a route of 264 km on the outskirts of MadridSpain.
Southern Observer from the outside, and especially from the inside, is to get the impression that the model it replaces, the Kadjar, is a car from the last century. Such is the amount of technology that we come acrosswhether in terms of infotainment, safety systems and driving assistance, in addition to the modernism applied to the design.
The cabin and its two generous screens
Once seated in the driver’s seat, I feel automatically by the huge 12.3-inch screen that focuses on everything that has to do with the sound system, navigation, climate control, 360˚ cameras, electrification, seat position and even air quality.
On that same screen placed in position, it is also possible to select the personalization modes of the latest generation of vertical technology. The one that allows you to adjust a firmness of direction, for example, or create an environment in shades of yellow. Or pink. Or another color that is more in line with our mood at the moment.
In terms of connectivity, the OpenR Link system with Google services was applied (which we already know the electric Mégane E-Tech), which means that we have at our disposal Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play. Basically, it’s like a tablet, which we can fill with applications. Alternatively, it is also offered via smartphone mirroring from Google Drive or Apple CarPlay, in addition to USB Type-C inputs.
The other screen, placed behind the steering wheel, is the same 12.3 inchestherefore, being completely digital, it is up to the driver to choose what he prefers to see. In my casebearing in mind that he was driving on unknown routes, the best option is to mirror the navigation system there. This way I ensured that I hardly took my eyes off the road and that nothing distracted my driving. But there is much more information that this screen can give.
Still on the habit, highlighted or exemplary, for the sporty format seats, the high quality materials (roof wood, for high and high panoramic) (unfortunately an option), and wonderful Harman Kardon sound system with 11 speakers plus subwoofer.
N/A trunk of this E-Tech Full Hybrid version we can count on 430 literswhich is enough to take the family on vacation, with their luggage and gear. And this one can still grow 125 litersif we push forward the second sliding seat.
exterior design
Robustness, dynamism and modernism are phrases that the Renault Austral’s exterior design suggests to me. In addition to the 20-inch rims, the higher waistline, as well as the front grille with the new brand symbol and the two-tonne body (optional), make this a very interesting SUV. So you have at least 33,300 euros – starting value for this model. The version I drove is the most expensive – it costs 45,300 euros (I want more).
The model is now available for order at dealerships Renault in three trim levels – entry-only not available in Esprit Alpine sport design spec – with the first units to be delivered in January 2023.
Behind the wheel of the E-Tech Hybrid version
Although it is also available in two mild hybrid versions, it was on AustralE, the one with the “real” hybrid engine, that I focused my attention. For road level 200 hp combined power – there is another one of 160 hp – powered by the 1.2 petrol engine, which is coupled to a 50 kW electric motor and a generator that charges a 2 kWh battery. This way electric starters and maneuvers are always in mode.
Always available, smooth and “well connected” to an intelligent multi-mode automatic transmission, the capable and well-designed motivated propulsion system to take this Austral forward, whatever the type of driving and road chosen. And with the option of the 4Control system, which makes the rear wheels have a 5˚ steering angle, dynamics are improved.
Because it is a hybrid (not that it needs to be plugged in)it is important to say that the new Renault SUV, according to it, can drive in an urban environment in electric mode for 80% of the time. This is how you get 40% fuel savings compared to a conventional gasoline engine. The announced consumption of this version is 4.7 l/100 km.
As for the 32 driving assistance systems on the Austral, such as Active Driver Assist, are there to ensure that we have a smooth drive and that safety is equal to a strong point of this model.