Ahead of the all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid UK launch this summer, Renault has revealed further details of its new, cutting-edge SUV. Customers can now register to secure one of the first cars via a priority list by paying a £500 deposit. The priority list will also include access to early product news updates and test drive opportunities through Renault UK’s dealer network.
A highly connected and innovative SUV for the modern, electrified world, the all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid will play a key role in helping Renault to achieve its ambitions of re-conquering the C-segment market and enhancing its already strong focus on electrified cars, as outlined in the company’s bold ‘Renaulution’ strategy.
The all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid completes a trio of C-segment models in the electrified Renault E-Tech range, joining the Megane E-Tech 100% electric and the Arkana E-Tech, Renault’s SUV hybrid. It marries its bold, sporty SUV design and efficient drivetrain with an innovative, contoured cockpit and a range of advanced technologies – from cutting-edge Google connectivity to an array of driver, safety and parking systems.
Regarded as the pinnacle of modernity, all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid comes with up to 30 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and MULTI-SENSE settings, which provide four different driving styles suitable for a range of journeys and terrains. These are complemented by Renault’s third-generation four-wheel steering system, 4CONTROL Advanced, giving Austral a city car-like 10.1m turning circle, which makes parking a breeze when used in conjunction with the car’s front, rear and side parking sensors and 360° Around View 3D camera. Each useful, proactive, and intelligent technological feature is there to improve passenger comfort, pleasure, and act as part of Renault’s leading Human First safety initiative.
A truly spacious SUV, its generous interior features a wireless smartphone charging station, while 35 litres of modular storage throughout the cabin ensure optimum use of the available space. The rear seats can be slid back by 16cm for a stretched-out and relaxed experience, while the boot space offers a capacity of up to 555 litres, conveniently accessed via an electric tailgate.
A highly customisable digital experience awaits, accessed through the twin 12-inch OpenR screens and 9.3-inch head-up display, all powered by Google services, which includes Google Play, Google Maps and Google Assistant. A range of up to 35 apps with exclusive content are available. From selecting music to planning a route, finding a parking space or controlling home devices, all can be activated with the ease of voice control.
All models are powered by a new 200hp petrol hybrid powertrain with a 400V 1.7kWh lithium-ion battery. An electric-only mode offers quiet and zero emissions city driving, while the battery recharges when decelerating and braking to offer a truly electric experience with no need to plug in. On the combined WLTP cycle, the Austral E-Tech full hybrid achieves up to 60.1mpg, making it one of the most fuel-efficient hybrid cars in the Renault line-up, keeping emissions as low as 105g/km of CO2. The impressive figures highlight its status as an exceptionally efficient hybrid electric vehicle.
“The arrival of the all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid is another exciting milestone in our drive to provide car buyers with a varied and highly usable range of electrified vehicles. With its blend of class-leading efficiency and advanced technology, we believe it to be one of the best hybrid cars available, and it comes at a time when demand for such a vehicle has never been higher,” said Guillaume Sicard, Country Head UK & Managing Director Renault Brand UK. “The UK remains the largest hybrid market in Europe, and by joining the priority list, customers can now secure their place in the queue to be one of the first to own this eagerly anticipated new model from a brand that has over a decade’s experience of developing and manufacturing electrified vehicles.”
Renault confirmed in March 2023 that its sales figures for hybrid cars and its customers’ appetite to buy electrified and fuel-efficient cars, was on the up. A notable highlight being the near doubling of its electrified vehicle sales compared to February YTD 2022 with electrified vehicle sales up year-on-year by 96%. Underlining UK drivers’ appetite for hybrids and the size of this sector – with the UK the largest hybrid market in Europe (of which Austral E-Tech full hybrid will form a pivotal part in the hybrid model line-up) – hybrid passenger car sales increased by a substantial 131%.
THREE MODELS TO CHOOSE FROM
Customers can choose from three generously-equipped models – techno, techno esprit Alpine, and iconic esprit Alpine – each with an array of advanced standardised features.
The techno starts the range with its 19-inch Komah alloy wheels, matrix LED vision headlights, mirage-effect rear LED lights, flush roof bars, shark fin antenna, surround parking sensors with rear-view camera, and hands-free key card with keyless entry.
As with all Austral E-Tech full hybrid models, the cabin boasts a frameless automatic rear-view mirror, sliding centre console armrest, sliding rear bench seat, and automatic dual-zone air conditioning with air purifier. Plus, the 12-inch OpenR multimedia screen, 12.3-inch driver information display, 9.3-inch head-up display, and a range of Google services built-in, including Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to the Google Play store. Two front and two rear USB ports ensure connectivity with the 8-speaker Arkamys audio system.
The All-New Austral E-Tech full hybrid features up to 30 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems including hill start assist, distance warning alert, emergency lane keep assist including overtaking & oncoming traffic, automatic emergency braking system, driver attention alert, traffic & speed sign recognition, and cruise control with speed limiter.
The techno esprit Alpine model goes further with its 20-inch Daytona alloy wheels, esprit Alpine detailing and black esprit Alpine carbon fabric and Alcantara upholstery with blue stitching. Its high level of equipment is further enhanced with heated front seats, heated steering wheel, electric power tailgate, electric driver and front passenger seats with massage function, traffic & speed sign recognition with overspeed prevention, and adaptive cruise control with lane centring.
At the top of the range, the iconic esprit Alpine stands out with its 4CONTROL Advanced 4-wheel steering, 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, 360° Around View 3D camera, panoramic sunroof, and wireless phone charging station.
