Renault has yet to unveil the facelifted version of the Austral, but photos of the SUV accidentally leaked online through the automaker’s mobile app and configurator. The updated Austral adopts the facial features of the larger Rafale alongside a few rumored mechanical tweaks, with the same treatment expected to be applied to the closely related Espace. The photo suggests that the styling updates are focused on the front end. The biggest change is the much larger boomerang-shaped DRLs on the front bumper, with the upper portion of the headlights remaining intact. We can also see the redesigned grille with a new pattern and a lower-positioned Renault emblem, tweaked bumper intakes, and a slightly cleaner design for the hood.
The profile appears to be carried over
from the existing model, including the alloy wheels from the sporty Esprit
Alpine trim. Judging from the recently facelifted Renault Captur, the rear end
could also remain largely unchanged. The Renault Austral is only two years old,
making this a very early facelift. Still, the SUV faces strong competition from
the likes of the VW Tiguan and Peugeot 3008, which recently entered a new
generation cycle. Furthermore, Renault wants its SUV lineup to have a clearer
family aesthetic, from the smaller Captur and Symbioz to the larger Espace and
Rafale.
The
interior of the Austral will likely receive subtle changes. After all, the SUV
shares the latest OpenR digital cockpit with the Rafale flagship SUV, so there
is no point in upgrading the layout. The Renault Austral rides on the CMF-CD
architecture, already offering gasoline, mild-hybrid, and self-charging hybrid
powertrain options. According to the latest rumors, the turbocharged 1.3-liter
four-cylinder engine could be axed, in favor of an updated and more powerful
version of the turbo 1.2-liter three-cylinder.
Furthermore, Renault could add a plug-in hybrid option into the mix, enhancing the appeal of the Austral against its rivals. The company recently introduced a PHEV version of the mechanically related Rafale, proving the compatibility of the platform with a heavier dose of electrification.
