Renault Gives the Austral a Thorough Overhaul – and Then Some

Renault has given its Austral such a comprehensive makeover that what remains from the previous version is little more than the name and, perhaps, a couple of bolts. The result? A machine that looks like a modern design manifesto on wheels, sounds like a Jean-Michel Jarre synth test, and delivers a driving experience so refined you’ll feel like you’re cruising to the Cannes Film Festival, even if you're just on your way to the office.

Everything is bigger, sleeker, and smarter. The new design borrows inspiration from the Rafale and Espace, with cutting-edge lighting elements, Matrix Vision headlights, and rear lights that resemble either Tangram puzzles or futuristic ice cubes—depending on your mood and caffeine level.

Step inside and you’re greeted by a facial recognition system. Yes, this car recognises your face. No word on what happens if it doesn’t like it, but we’re not far from sci-fi territory here. The seats are newly sculpted and offer better support, while the sound insulation is so advanced it’s said you’ll hear your own thoughts more clearly than traffic noise. And then there’s the OpenR Link multimedia system—think of it as Google HQ jammed into your dashboard, but with more Jean-Michel Jarre and less spreadsheet stress.

And now, let’s talk powertrains. There’s a mild-hybrid with 160 horsepower and a full E-Tech hybrid pushing out 200 horses. Both claim to be frugal, smooth, and brisk, like a shy sports car politely asking to overtake. Gear changes are handled by a multi-mode clutchless automatic that shifts more gracefully than an English gentleman leaving a dinner party early. Add to that the 4Control Advanced four-wheel steering system, and navigating tight city corners becomes a ballet. On the highway? It's still ballet—just faster.

On the safety front, Renault has loaded the Austral with 32 driver-assistance systems. That’s more helpers than most people have friends. It reads road signs, warns you when you're yawning, brakes if you can’t be bothered, and even tells you when it’s time for a break. It’s essentially a car with a built-in mother who worries about your well-being.

The new Austral comes in three trims: the sensible Evolution, the polished Techno, and the sportier, track-inspired Esprit Alpine, which features Alcantara, blue seatbelts, and Alpine "A" logos stitched into every visible surface—except, thankfully, your forehead.

In short, the new Renault Austral is a technological jam jar stuffed with cleverness, style, and just the right amount of slightly mad French engineering flair.