The Renault Austral made its debut in 2022, positioning itself as the successor to the Kadjar in Renault’s lineup. Designed as a compact crossover SUV, the Austral has quickly garnered attention for its sleek, modern aesthetics, cutting-edge technology, and efficient hybrid powertrains. With the 2025 model, Renault has built upon its original design to offer an even more refined, feature-packed vehicle. Here’s a closer look at what makes the Renault Austral stand out in its segment.

Exterior Design: Sleek and Modern Aesthetics

The exterior design of the Renault Austral follows the brand’s “Sensual Tech” design philosophy, combining sharp lines with flowing curves to create a visually dynamic presence. The front of the vehicle is highlighted by full-LED headlights, offering excellent visibility while contributing to a sophisticated look. The rear of the Austral features boomerang-shaped taillights that give it a distinctive and modern rear-end design.

The vehicle’s proportions are compact yet athletic, making it ideal for urban environments while still having the presence of a larger SUV. The roofline gracefully slopes towards the rear, contributing to a sporty stance. The side profile features clean lines, bold wheel arches, and a wide stance, further emphasizing the vehicle’s dynamic appeal.

Interior: High-Tech and Premium Feel

Step inside the Renault Austral, and you’re greeted by a modern, spacious, and tech-laden interior. The cabin is designed with an emphasis on comfort, technology, and quality materials. The dual 12-inch screens are the centerpiece of the dashboard, with a digital instrument cluster directly in front of the driver and a portrait-oriented touchscreen for the infotainment system. The OpenR infotainment system integrates Google services (such as Google Maps and Assistant), making it intuitive and user-friendly, with responsive touch controls.

The materials inside the Austral feel premium, with soft-touch surfaces, leather upholstery options, and suede-like inserts on the dashboard. Renault has clearly aimed to make the interior of the Austral feel luxurious, without it being overwhelming. The layout is spacious and modern, with high-quality finishes throughout. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with ample room in both the front and rear for passengers, even on longer journeys.

Specifications

Engine Options:

1.2L E-Tech Full Hybrid: 200 horsepower, 300 Nm of torque.
The hybrid powertrain provides a seamless transition between the gasoline engine and electric motors, ensuring an efficient and smooth driving experience.
Fuel Economy: Approximately 5.0L/100km (combined) for the hybrid version.
Electric Range: The Austral can operate on electric power alone in urban environments for short distances, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

Performance:

0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): Approximately 8.5 seconds.
Top speed: 185 km/h (115 mph).
The hybrid engine setup provides responsive acceleration and strong low-end torque, making city driving smooth and effortless. The vehicle’s performance is balanced, offering a mix of fuel efficiency and satisfying driving dynamics.

Transmission and Drivetrain:

The E-Tech hybrid uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which contributes to its fuel efficiency while delivering smooth acceleration.
The 4-wheel steering system enhances agility, allowing the Austral to maneuver through tight spaces with ease.
Suspension:

The suspension system is tuned for comfort, but some reviewers note that it can feel firm on rougher surfaces. Still, it strikes a good balance between handling and comfort for everyday driving.

Cargo Space:

The Austral offers a generous 487-liter boot. This is ample for the vehicle’s size, although it is slightly smaller than some of its competitors in the segment. The low load lip makes it easy to load and unload items, and the rear seats can be folded flat for added practicality.

Dimensions:

Length: 4,510 mm (177.5 inches)
Width: 1,865 mm (73.4 inches)
Height: 1,625 mm (64 inches)
Wheelbase: 2,680 mm (105.5 inches)
Technology and Features
The Renault Austral is loaded with technology, from its infotainment system to its suite of advanced safety features. It comes equipped with up to 30 driver assistance systems, including:

Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane.
Lane Keep Assist: Gently steers the vehicle back into the lane if it detects that the driver is not actively steering.
Blind Spot Monitoring: Warns the driver if there’s a vehicle in their blind spot.
Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead.
Other notable features include wireless phone charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a high-quality sound system. The OpenR Link system ensures that the driver and passengers are always connected and entertained.

Driving Experience

The Renault Austral excels in offering a comfortable, refined driving experience. The steering is light but responsive, and the 4-wheel steering system adds a level of agility that makes city driving more enjoyable, especially when parking or making tight turns. On the highway, the Austral remains composed and stable, offering a smooth ride even at higher speeds.

The hybrid powertrain delivers a good balance of performance and efficiency. While not the most powerful in its class, the 200-horsepower engine is more than enough for daily driving and offers a surprisingly enjoyable experience, especially when operating on electric power in urban settings. The regenerative braking system also helps optimize energy use, enhancing the overall efficiency.

Safety

Renault places a strong emphasis on safety in the Austral. With 30 advanced safety features and high crash-test ratings, this SUV offers peace of mind for both the driver and passengers. The vehicle has been designed to meet stringent safety standards, incorporating a range of active and passive safety technologies, such as automated emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, and adaptive headlights.

Conclusion

The 2025 Renault Austral is a standout in the compact SUV segment, offering a blend of modern design, efficient hybrid performance, advanced technology, and solid safety features. While it might not be the largest in terms of boot space, it compensates with its smooth driving dynamics, comfortable interior, and an array of connectivity options. The Austral provides an excellent option for anyone looking for a family-friendly, tech-packed vehicle with excellent fuel efficiency and a stylish, modern look.

Whether you’re commuting in the city, embarking on weekend road trips, or just enjoying a comfortable ride, the Renault Austral impresses with its versatility, efficiency, and well-rounded package.