Renault Austral 2025 gets refreshed styling and hybrid-only powertrains

Gareth Wainwright • June 06, 2026 15:54

Renault is continuing to refresh its line-up so that every model reflects the brand’s latest design language. After the Espace, it is now the Austral’s turn to receive an updated look.

First introduced in 2022, the SUV now features redesigned front and rear styling - matching the Espace - with the new light signature taking centre stage. The Renault Austral 2025 also gains a new bonnet and now comes with adaptive lighting as standard.

At the back, the upper and central sections of the tailgate have been reworked with new lines, and the rear lights have been reshaped as well. When illuminated, they now appear as a series of square segments.

More technology and comfort

Inside, the key addition is a driver-recognition system. Using a new camera mounted on the left-hand A-pillar, the vehicle automatically switches settings to the user’s profile as soon as they get in.

In the second row, there is a split/folding (60/40) bench that slides 16 cm fore and aft and reclines in three positions (25°/27°/29°).

Beyond that, changes to the Renault Austral 2025 cabin are deliberately subtle and include new upholstery. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 12-inch central screen and 9-inch head-up display remain unchanged.

Hybrid only

The updated Austral retains the same hybrid powertrains: mild-hybrid and full hybrid. The 12 V mild-hybrid pairs a turbocharged 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 160 hp with a CVT-type automatic transmission.

Meanwhile, the E-Tech full hybrid system uses a turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine - producing 130 hp (96 kW) and 205 Nm on its own - combined with two electric motors and a 2 kWh battery. The main electric motor delivers 50 kW (68 hp) and the secondary unit provides 18 kW (24 hp).

Renault has also worked on soundproofing and the Renault Austral 2025 adopts new mounts for the powertrain. The aim of these changes is to improve refinement on board.

Finally, the French SUV comes with the 4Control Advanced system, which combines a multi-link rear suspension with four-wheel steering, as well as Multi-Sense, allowing drivers to personalise the driving modes.

The French SUV will be offered in two trim levels:

Techno: includes chrome roof bars and satin-chrome interior inserts on the door panels, among other items;
Esprit Alpine: black roof bars, tinted windows, 20-inch “altitude” wheels, “Twill” upholstery, plus other features.

The Renault Austral 2025 also now includes, as standard, all driver-assistance systems required by the European GSR2 regulation.