Since 2016 and the launch of the latest generation of the Peugeot 3008, Renault has looked gray. In the strategic segment of medium-sized SUVs – the one where generalist manufacturers earn the most money – the Kadjar was clearly outclassed by its rival, produced in more than a million copies against 685,000 for the model designed by the Billancourt brand. More flashy, more original and benefiting from a better presentation – in short, more statutory – the 3008 has become the darling of executives looking for an impressive company car. And a formidable “cash machine” for the lion brand.
Aware that it had to be said that the page was turning, Renault started at the beginning: changing the name of its model, baptized Austral. A signal that disturbs the lack of renewal of the exterior style, close to the Kadjar. Renault has stuck to a fairly conservative design, applying itself to shelling the essentials of the stylistic language of the SUV (large wheels, highlighted side protections, emphatic grille) without trying in the least to free itself from the imposed exercise .
This preliminary disappointment dissipates inside, less demonstrative than that of the 3008, but more modern. We find there the double screen in the shape of an inverted L inaugurated on board the electric Mégane E-TECH, its very elaborate infotainment system (largely entrusted to Google) as well as very good ergonomics of the controls. There is plenty of space and the rear bench seat which slides over 16 centimeters allows you to distribute the desired volume between the passenger compartment and the boot.
Benefits under the hood
The real strengths of the Austral (manufactured in the factory in Palencia, Spain) are hidden under its hood. Faced with the growing pressure of European anti-pollution standards, manufacturers can no longer let the mechanics with which they equip their cars age. In addition to a new platform, the Austral therefore inherits a new generation of its original E-TECH hybrid system. Renault has installed its new heat engine (a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder) which is less powerful than those of its competitors, but which has been specifically designed to fit into a hybrid powertrain.
On the other hand, the hybrid Austral is equipped with a more vigorous electric motorization than that of its rivals. A first motor provides traction and recharges the small battery; the second takes care of starting the car, but also of the gear changes (four for internal combustion, two for electric) provided by an automatic gearbox with claws (a series of gears replace the clutch). What could pass for a gas plant gives birth to a very linear operation and, above all, makes it possible to very often stick to only electric energy to move the car, particularly in town.
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