All-new Renault Austral teases fresh face
Launch date locked in as latest sketch of new SUV reveals heavy Renault Megane E-Tech influenceRenault has confirmed it will pull back the curtains and reveal its all-new 2022 Renault Austral on March 8.
The French brand has also issued yet another teaser image of the small SUV that gives us our first look at its front-end styling.
Taking its name from the word 'australis', the Latin word for Australia, the Hyundai Kona-rivalling Renault Austral gets a look that will clearly align it with the small all-electric Renault Megane E-Tech.
That said, there is a little more muscle to the Austral's shape, while the large wheel-arches and big wheels, raised beltline and front lower bashplate/splitter all help to clearly differentiate it as an SUV rather than a small hatchback.
Claimed to combine "vivacity and sophistication", the new Austral is said to be the fruit of Renault's latest 'sensual tech' design language.
Renault design boss Agneta Dahlgren described the Austral's styling as a "combination of generous shapes, curving shoulders, projecting sides and subtle technical details such as the high-tech lights, which strengthen its distinctive design".
Expect some of the design sketch's overblown proportions to be toned down for the real thing but for the LED headlights and illuminated grille to make it to production.
From earlier images of the cabin we know that the Austral is destined for a far classier interior that will not be lacking for in-car tech.
The next-generation Renault SUV's cockpit will be dominated by an L-shaped infotainment and digital instrument cluster unit that stretches its total screen width to no less than 24.3 inches.
Confirmed to measure 4.51m long, the new Austral is 60mm longer than the Renault Kadjar due to its move to Nissan QASHQAI underpinnings, which is also set to bring big benefits in both packaging and technology.
The powertrain line-up at launch is likely to kick off with a new 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that will produce around 110kW and is likely to be paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Even more sophisticated electrified engines will also be available, with both E-Tech Hybrid and E-Tech Plug-in Hybrid powertrains set to be offered, the latter bringing a pure-electric range of 50-60km.
Now locked in for its March 8 unveiling, we wouldn't be surprised if Renault managed to squeeze in one final tease of its all-new SUV ahead of its official debut.
Related: Renault Austral interior teased
Related: Renault Austral shapes up
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