After three years on sale, the Renault Austral has been refreshed.
The changes are immediately noticeable – the whole front end of the Austral has been updated to bring it in line with the Rafale coupe SUV, as well as the updated Captur and the new Symbioz.
In other words, all of Renault’s combustion SUVs now have broadly the same front-end features, with piercing headlights, boomerang-shaped daytime running lights and a more intricate grille that’s almost Art Deco inspired.
The tailgate has also been updated with new brake light clusters and body creases, while there are two new paint colour choices: Naxos Blue and a matte Satin Pearl White, the latter reserved for the two Esprit Alpine trim levels along with a matte grey shade. These join white, grey, black and red metallics.
A new 20-inch alloy wheel design in a snowflake-inspired pattern is also saved for the sporty-looking Esprit Alpine specs.
Inside, the changes aren’t immediately obvious unless you were to compare the two cars side by side. The new Austral features reprofiled seats that are said to be more comfortable on long journeys – plus new ‘Egée’ upholstery on the Techno trim that’s made from 98% recycled fabrics.
Renault has also increased the sound insulation and replaced the door seals to make the Austral quieter than ever. Underneath, we’re assured that the suspension has improved damping capabilities – the Austral was already one of the most comfortable family SUVs – and the Extended Grip driving modes are now compatible with the biggest wheels.
More apps have been added to the Austral’s fantastic Google-based infotainment system (although we’re yet to find out which additional apps are now included). The baked-in Google Maps navigation software closely matches the capabilities of the app on your phone, including eco-friendly route planning and reporting hazards. You can send directions from your phone to the car’s screen before you get in.
Full prices and specs will be revealed closer to the car’s launch in the second half of the year. We’d expect a slight increase over the current car, which starts from £34,695.
Alternatively, if you’d like an Austral but aren’t too bothered about waiting for the new model, you could save thousands of pounds by choosing a lightly used Renault Austral for sale at Motorpoint. For more info on this stylish SUV, read our Renault Austral review.
