A new Esprit Alpine sporty trim is introduced by the Kadjar replacement.
The new Austral has finally arrived after a thorough campaign. The first Renault model to ride on the new third-gen CMF CD platform is the Kadjar. It also brings a number of novelty features. Its most notable feature is its completely new design. The compact crossover features a different exterior and a high-tech cabin that are a marked departure from the model it replaces.
Let’s start with its size. The Austral measures 4.51 meters in length, 1.83 meters wide and 1.62 meters high, with a 2.67 meter wheelbase. The Austral is slightly longer and wider than its predecessor, but it also has a shorter wheelbase and is slightly narrower. The vehicle’s cargo capacity can vary from 500 to 575 Liters, depending on whether it has a fixed or sliding back bench. The full hybrid model with all the extra hardware will drop the volume to 430 and 555 liters. For smaller items, the interior storage is 35 liters more.
A turbocharged, 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology provides power. The Austral has no oil burner as the Kadjar’s diesel-burner has been dropped. A 48V lithium-ion battery, starter motor and six-speed manual gearbox combine to produce 130 horsepower.
Renault claims that the Mild Hybrid Advanced arrangement reduces fuel consumption to 5.3 liters/100 km and CO2 emissions to 123g/km. According to company estimates, the engine would have been 20% more thirsty without the mild-hybrid technology.
There’s also the Mild Hybrid, which has a four-cylinder, 1.3-liter gasoline engine. It was co-developed with Mercedes-Benz and works with a 12V lithium-ion batteries, a starter engine, and a six-speed manual transmission or X-Tronic automated transmission. The powertrain produces 140 horsepower and the auto makes 270 Nm (200lb-ft) of torque. The more powerful system uses 6.2 liters/100 km and emits 136 grams/km.
The E-Tech Hybrid model is a full hybrid model built around a 1.2-liter unit. You can choose between 160 hp and 200 hp for the combined output. It starts in electric mode. Renault claims it is one of the most efficient hybrid crossovers in its class, consuming just 4.6 liters/100 km and emitting 105 g/km.
The lower versions have a torsion beam rear suspension, while the higher-end models get multi-link and rear-wheel steering aka 4Control Advanced. The Austral has a lot of tech. It features a 9.3-inch head up display, 12-inch vertical touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital cluster. There are also matrix LED headlights and 360-degree cameras.
The 2023 Austral is a first for Renault. It introduces the Esprit Alpine, a top-of-the-line trim that has a sportier appearance. It is equipped with 20-inch wheels in black aluminum and Alpinebranding, while the smaller versions have 17- to 19 inch alloys. There are a variety of styling upgrades available, including black accents as well as a Satin Shale Gray body colour. The flagship model features Alcantara and Nappa leather, as well as a twill fabric that resembles carbon fiber. The cabin is finished with blue stitching and pipe, as well as aluminum pedals and sills that feature the Alpine logo.
The Renault Austral will not be available for sale until the fourth quarter, despite its unveiling today.