Renault Austral costs, pros, cons and common fixes

Production Country
The Renault Austral E-Tech full hybrid 200 is assembled in Palencia, Spain, on the CMF-CD modular platform shared with the latest Espace and Rafale models.
Brief Description
The Austral is a C-segment crossover with a dynamic design: a 3D-pattern grille, C-Shape LED light signature and clean, sculpted lines. Equipped with 4Control Advanced (four-wheel steering) and a multilink rear suspension, it combines high-speed stability with agile urban handling. Inside, the “OpenR” L-Shape dashboard features a 9″ touchscreen (12″ on higher trims), a 12.3″ digital driver display, Google-integrated infotainment and an Arkamys/Harman Kardon sound system. Seating for five, a 575 L boot and a combined range of up to 1 100 km make it equally suited to family duty and long journeys.
2025 Full Hybrid E-Tech 200 Powertrain
Feature | Specification |
---|
Engine & Electric Motors | 1.2 L turbo petrol + dual e-motor |
Battery | 2 kWh (400 V) |
Transmission | 7-speed multi-mode automatic |
Combined Power | 146 kW (200 hp) |
Peak Torque | 410 Nm |
0–100 km/h | 8.4 s |
Top Speed | 175 km/h |
WLTP Combined Consumption | from 4.7 L/100 km |
CO₂ Emissions | from 106 g/km |
Total Combined Range | up to 1 100 km |
Dimensions & Capacity
Specification | Measurement |
---|
Length | 4 510 mm |
Width (w/o mirrors) | 1 825 mm |
Height | 1 644 mm |
Wheelbase | 2 667 mm |
Ground Clearance | 226 mm |
Boot Volume | 575 L |
Seating / Doors | 5 / 5 |
Main Trims & Pricing
Trim | From (€) |
---|
Evolution | 38 600 |
Techno | 40 500 |
Esprit Alpine | 43 000 |
(Prices include VAT; local incentives and delivery fees excluded.)
Pros
Balanced handling thanks to 4Control Advanced and multilink rear suspension
High-tech cabin with dual displays, OpenR Link and Google integration
Long combined range (≈1 100 km) without external charging
Spacious and practical: five seats and a 575 L boot
Efficient hybrid powertrain with low real-world consumption
Cons
Large dimensions and weight can compromise pure agility
Small hybrid battery offers no meaningful electric-only range
Premium pricing, with optional extras quickly adding up
Maintenance of advanced systems (4Control, ADAS) may incur higher costs
Maintenance & First Service Costs (indicative)
Service / Repair | Approx. Cost (€) |
---|
1st Service (1 year or 20 000 km) | 200–250 |
2nd Service (2 years or 40 000 km) | 250–300 |
Front brake pads replacement | 220–260 |
Front discs + pads replacement | 400–500 |
Oil filter + engine air filter replacement | 80–120 |
12 V battery replacement | 120–180 |
Single tyre replacement | 100–150 each |
4Control system maintenance (inspection & lube) | 150–200 |
All costs include parts and labor; actual prices vary by region and dealership.
In Summary
The Renault Austral E-Tech full hybrid 200 delivers a sophisticated blend of advanced technology, comfort and long-range capability without ever needing to plug in. With three well-equipped trims—Evolution, Techno and Esprit Alpine—it lets buyers tailor style, features and budget, while offering a uniquely balanced driving experience for families and long-distance travellers alike.
Verdict — Renault Austral (Model Year 2025)
Hybrid mild-hybrid & full-hybrid · Power from 130 to 200 hp · Front-wheel drive · 7-speed EDC dual-clutch automatic
The Renault Austral stakes its claim as the new benchmark in the compact-SUV segment, marrying bold styling, cutting-edge technology and efficient hybrid drivetrains. Up front, the signature boomerang-shaped full-LED light signature and geometric grille give it a strong, contemporary presence; the sculpted flanks and pronounced wheel arches underscore its athletic stance on the road.
Inside, the “OpenR” cockpit centers around a sweeping 12.3″ curved display that merges digital instrumentation and infotainment into one seamless surface. Soft-touch materials, satin-finish trims and tasteful accents create an inviting ambience. Heated, power-adjustable front seats provide long-haul comfort, while clever storage solutions and a 440 L boot (expandable to 1,474 L with rear seats folded) highlight its practical versatility.
Key Technical Highlights:
Full-Hybrid E-Tech 200 hp: 1.2 L turbo-petrol + electric motor + 1.7 kWh battery, no plug-in required, up to 80% electric-only driving in urban use
48 V Mild-Hybrid (130 or 160 hp): 1.3 L turbo-petrol paired with belt-driven starter-generator, balancing cost and fuel economy (5.5–6.0 L/100 km WLTP)
7-Speed EDC Dual-Clutch Auto: Smooth, rapid shifts for seamless acceleration
Front-Wheel Drive as standard; McPherson front suspension and torsion-beam rear axle
Level-2 ADAS Suite: Adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking as standard
Category | Where It Excels | Where It Holds Its Own | Where It’s Limited |
---|
Design & Image | Modern, dynamic lines; distinctive full-LED signature | Well-crafted finishes; up to 20″ alloy wheels | Less sporty than some rivals |
Comfort & Space | Supportive, well-trimmed seats; generous headroom | Dual-zone climate; hands-free tailgate | Noticeable central tunnel |
Real-World Efficiency | Predominantly electric urban driving in full-hybrid | Competitive fuel figures for the segment | Limited pure-EV range outside cities |
Driving Dynamics | Precise steering; comfort-oriented suspension tuning | Stable at highway speeds | Noticeable body roll in spirited turns |
Practicality | Spacious, modular boot; abundant cubby space | Optional panoramic sunroof | Rear opening less generous than some |
Infotainment & Connect | 12.3″ OpenR curved display; full Apple CarPlay/Android | OTA map & software updates; built-in voice assistant | 3D navigation reserved for top trims |
Safety & ADAS | Comprehensive Drive Assistance pack included | Front/rear sensors; 360° camera | Some advanced aids limited to premium |
Running Costs | “Easy Care” maintenance plans; low fuel consumption | 5-year warranty; roadside assistance | OEM parts & labor pricier at dealers |
Depreciation | Strong Renault brand appeal in C-SUV segment | Stable demand on the used market | Intense competition within segment |
Who It’s For
Drivers seeking a compact yet roomy SUV that feels refined, packed with smart tech and efficient hybrid powertrains—ideal for families and commuters wanting lower fuel bills and emissions without sacrificing comfort.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you crave sportier handling or extended EV-only range, consider plug-in options like the Volkswagen Tiguan e-Hybrid or Ford Kuga PHEV.
Recommended Configuration
Full-Hybrid E-Tech 200 hp in Techno trim, with the 12.3″ OpenR display, panoramic roof and 360° camera/sensor pack—striking the best balance of tech, space and driving pleasure.
Official Pricing
E-Tech 200 hp Techno: from € 42,500
TCe 160 hp Intens (mild-hybrid): from € 35,900
E-Tech 200 hp Iconic (panoramic roof + ADAS Plus): from € 48,200