SPY PICS: Renault's next Koleos snapped

The camouflaged images you see here are the most revealing yet of the next-generation Koleos SUV, which will be launched globally in early 2016 – including Australia.

Not only will the next Koleos be a more sophisticated machine – in design and technology terms – but it's also going to be much larger and will offer seven seats for the first time.

Based on the same CMF (common module family) Renault-Nissan platform as the X-Trail, the new Koleos will grow significantly, and could be close to 5.0 metres in length up from the current model's 4.5 metres.

This will provide more functionality for family buyers and together with a number of advanced driving aids and techno wizardry, it also boasts a smoother, more contemporary design.

Even though it's covered in camouflage it's clear the new design is more conventional than the current model's, which has struggled to conquest sales from segment rivals in Australia.

The new look appears to present a smarter, bolder-looking grille flanked by stylish slimline headlight clusters that should give it a far more assertive stance than currently. Swing around to the back and the brake lights have been given more attention from the designers while the vehicle's overall silhouette is now sportier, with the roofline tapering down towards the back.

Renault Australia's corporate communications manager, Emily Fadeyev, told motoring.com.au that the Koleos "is a very important model for us – and will continue to be".

She wouldn't be drawn on the timing of the vehicle for the Australian market, merely stating "not before 2016" and it's our guess that a second-half arrival is likely, as European orders will be filled first.

Expected to be available here in both 2WD and 4WD guises, the Koleos is likely to be fitted with the same engines as the Nissan X-Trail, which include 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre petrol and 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engines.

Continuously variable transmissions or CVTs will be the choice for those seeking an automatic gear shifter.

Currently priced between $28,490 and $42,490 in Australia, the Renault Koleos' replacement may be priced slightly higher as it brings more safety and convenience technologies, plus it will also be "much more serious, much more high-end and much more sophisticated," according to Renault's design boss, Laurens Van den Acker.

Renault Australia's SUV strategy will remain unchanged going forward, revolving around the entry-level small SUV, Captur ($22,990 to $27,990) and the Koleos. Although Renault has revealed its new Kadjar SUV that would slot in between those two vehicles, the local importer is undecided about whether to offer it in Australia.