Making an incredibly ambitious entry into the C-SUV segment by pushing the Kadjar aside, the Renault Austral practically single-handedly elevates the brand's perception of quality. We can very clearly see the "Nouvelle Vague" movement in its exterior design. With its sharp lines, muscular shoulders, and wide stance planted firmly on the road, it has the demeanor of a premium car. While personally learning Italian and different European languages, I understand once again how universal a language car designs speak; looking from the outside, the Austral directly says, "I am a high-quality European." Especially the matte gray color and blue details in the Esprit Alpine trim make people on the street turn and look again.
Mechanically, under the hood is the 160 horsepower 12V mild-hybrid version of the 1.3-liter TCe engine co-developed with Mercedes-Benz. I know very well from my past workshop experiences how robust and high-performing this block is. Paired with the Jatco-produced 7-ratio X-Tronic (CVT) transmission, this engine moves the 1464 kg car with a very sweet fluidity in the city. The famous screaming habit of CVT transmissions has been masterfully filed down in this vehicle; it makes virtual gear shifts as if it were a torque converter transmission. Fuel consumption is at a highly acceptable level with a combined consumption of 6.2 liters for such a voluminous vehicle.
When you step inside the cabin, you feel that Renault has truly leveled up. The L-shaped "OpenR" massive screen architecture (12.3-inch cluster + 12-inch vertical multimedia) is eye-catching. Thanks to the Google Automotive infrastructure, navigation and voice commands work incredibly fast and flawlessly. The massive sliding hand rest in the middle (space opened up by moving the gear selector to the steering wheel) gives the feel of an airplane cockpit. The Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel and blue-stitched seats elevate the feeling of luxury in the cabin to the sky. Being able to expand the 500-liter trunk up to 575 liters thanks to sliding rear seats is a wonderful practicality for families.
In driving dynamics, the Austral's biggest weapon is the optional "4Control Advanced" (Four-Wheel Steering) system. By turning the rear wheels in the opposite direction to the front wheels at low speeds, this system allows this massive 4.5-meter SUV to maneuver like a Clio in the narrowest streets of Esenyurt or Istanbul. At high speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front, making lane changes incredibly stable. Insulation is wonderful, and the suspensions have blended French comfort with German solidity.
In summary, the Renault Austral is a very solid alternative to giants in its segment like the Peugeot 3008 and VW Tiguan regarding technology, design, and interior quality. With its fluid Google infrastructure, eye-catching design, and proven engine, it fully deserves to be at the top of the list for drivers looking for a premium feel at a logical price.
