for catch up with C-segment SUVs, Renault decided to clean up the past. To try forget the relative failures of the Koleos and Kadjar. To achieve this goal, the French manufacturer decided to start with a new platform introduce a new denomination called Austral. A term that smells of adventure and is designed to show an unlimited field of possibilities.

Newbie adopts styling codes of the new Mégane E-Tech electric. With elongated headlights and a double C-shaped light signature at the rear. He wants to be quite muscular, with dynamically designed shields. Ribs on the sides and clearly visible wheel arches. The passenger compartment was also especially carefully maintained, with quality materials and large space, plenty of storage space and good ergonomics. Like his younger sister Mégane, he also has it elegant and original square steering wheel.

Consistent model for Renault

As for engines, Austral adopts Renault’s electrification strategy. Rejection of diesel engines in favor of electrified engines. The engine catalog includes versions of soft hybridization 12V (1.3 l with a capacity of 140 or 160 hp) and 48V (1.2 l with a capacity of 130 hp). But also a “full hybrid” engine based on a 1.2 liter gasoline unit. It is offered in 160 and 200 hp versions. These engine options are in line with Renault’s vision and enable full use commercial potential of this car. The option of 100% electric motorization would limit its scope, especially since the new electric Scénic is coming soon. This is a healthy model for Renault to compete with Peugeot and its 3008 in this precious and desirable category!

Austral is already superior to Arkana

Expected to launch in late 2022, Renault has raised capital for another of its SUVs: the Arkana. Unlike the Kadjar vs the 3008, this time the brand has a significant advantage as Peugeot only launched a rival to the 408 this year. Arkana had a great success in 2022, surpassing sales of 3,008 in its first full year! Will he surely lose his lead against Austral today? Renault’s new family SUV has really succeeded very good result for the first two months of 2023! Thus it was sold 3,958 Austral over this period compared to 3,523 Arkana. True, 3008 was ahead (5537 units), but Austral is just starting its careerand his glory, unlike 3008, is yet to come. Austral can permanently replace Arkana as Renault’s best-selling SUV.