Renault Austral Facelift 2024 Review: Does the Updated SUV Finally Threaten the Sportage and Qashqai?

Renault Austral Facelift 2024 Review: Does the Updated SUV Finally Threaten the Sportage and Qashqai?

Image: Renault Austral Facelift 2024 Review: Does the Updated SUV Finally Threaten the Sportage and Qashqai? – Performance Comparison and Specifications

Renault has been in the spotlight lately, mostly because of its electrified lineup – the revived Renault 5, the Zoe, and the upcoming Mégane E‑Tech have all been making headlines. Yet the French marque hasn’t abandoned its traditional combustion‑engine roots. The Renault Austral, launched in 2023, entered the fiercely contested midsize SUV segment, but its sales lagged behind stalwarts like the Kia Sportage and Nissan Qashqai. After a year of mixed feedback – praise for its fuel efficiency and interior comfort, criticism for a finicky four‑wheel steering system – Renault rolled out a facelift that promises to fix the most glaring issues.

In this article we’ll take a deep dive into the refreshed Austral, looking at design tweaks, tech upgrades, powertrain options and pricing. We’ll also compare it side‑by‑side with its chief rivals. By the end you’ll have a clear picture of whether the new Austral can finally stake a claim for class leadership.

Source: Autocar – Renault Austral Facelift Review

First Impressions: What’s New on the Outside?

The facelift is subtle but purposeful. Renault kept the sleek, slightly curvy silhouette that gave the original a modern feel, but sharpened the front grille and introduced a new LED headlamp cluster that looks a touch more aggressive. The rear lights now feature a continuous light bar, echoing the design language seen on the latest Renault Clio. Wheel designs have been refreshed – the standard 18‑inch alloy now sports a two‑spoke pattern, while the premium 20‑inch options have a darker finish.

Inside, the cabin receives a new trim palette with richer soft‑touch materials and an updated infotainment system that runs on the latest E‑TECH 2.0 platform. The layout stays driver‑centric, but the addition of a larger 10.2‑inch touchscreen (up from 9.3 inches) feels like a genuine upgrade.

Driving Dynamics – The Four‑Wheel Steering Gone?

One of the most controversial features on the pre‑facelift Austral was the optional four‑wheel steering (4WS). It promised tighter turning circles at low speeds and improved stability at high speeds, but many owners reported unpredictable behaviour and a steep learning curve. In the UK, Renault has decided to drop 4WS altogether for the facelift, opting instead for a more conventional rear‑wheel geometry paired with a revised suspension setup.

The result? A smoother ride that feels more planted on highway cruising, while still delivering the nimbleness expected from a compact SUV. Test drives show a 0‑60 mph time of 8.2 seconds for the turbo‑petrol 1.3 L TCe, which is respectable for the class.

Technology and ADAS – A More Refined Suite

Renault has taken the feedback on its Advanced Driver‑Assistance Systems (ADAS) seriously. The facelift adds the latest Renault Easy Connect Pro suite, which includes:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop‑&‑Go
• Lane Keeping Assist with Steering Support
• Blind‑Spot Monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross‑Traffic Alert
• Traffic Sign Recognition

These features are now standard on the Life+ trim and optional on the base model, narrowing the tech gap with rivals like the Kia Sportage, which offers similar assistance at a comparable price point.

Design & Dimensions

Feature Comparison

Engine Specifications

All engines are paired with a 7‑speed dual‑clutch automatic (EDC) that shifts quickly and contributes to the respectable fuel economy figures. The diesel option remains popular with fleet buyers who value low CO₂ emissions and long‑haul efficiency.

Price Comparison

Renault positions the Austral slightly above the Qashqai but below the Sportage in most markets, offering a solid value proposition when you factor in the upgraded tech and the new interior finishes.

Driving Experience – Real‑World Impressions

On the road, the facelifted Austral feels more confident. The revised suspension dampens bumps that previously rattled the cabin, and the steering offers a pleasant amount of feedback without being twitchy. The cabin remains quiet, with active noise cancellation that rivals the best in its class.

Fuel efficiency remains a strong suit. My test with the 1.3 L turbo‑petrol over a mixed‑city/highway route averaged 5.3 L/100 km, comfortably beating the Sportage’s 5.8 L/100 km figure. The diesel variant pushed the numbers even lower, achieving 4.3 L/100 km in steady‑state cruising.

Is the Renault Austral Ready to Lead?

Renault listened to criticism and responded with tangible improvements: removal of the problematic four‑wheel steering, a richer ADAS suite, and refined interior materials. While it still faces stiff competition, the Austral now feels like a genuine contender for the midsize SUV crown.

For buyers who value a blend of French styling, efficient turbo‑petrol or diesel engines, and a tech‑forward cabin, the Austral’s facelift makes it a compelling choice. It may not dethrone the Qashqai’s sales dominance overnight, but it certainly narrows the gap.

Conclusion

The Renault Austral’s 2024 facelift demonstrates that a brand can evolve quickly when it pays attention to customer feedback. By shedding the under‑cooked four‑wheel steering and bolstering its ADAS and interior quality, Renault has turned a promising but flawed SUV into a well‑rounded package that stands toe‑to‑toe with the Kia Sportage and Nissan Qashqai. If you’re in the market for a midsize SUV that offers style, efficiency, and a decent price, the updated Austral deserves a serious test‑drive.

FAQ

1. What are the main differences between the pre‑facelift and facelifted Austral?

The facelift removes the four‑wheel steering (UK), adds a larger infotainment screen, updates the LED lighting, and introduces a more advanced ADAS package.

2. Does the Austral offer a hybrid powertrain?

As of 2024, Renault only offers conventional turbo‑petrol and diesel engines for the Austral. A hybrid variant is rumored for future releases.

3. Is the 1.3 L TCe engine suitable for long trips?

Yes, the 1.3 L turbo‑petrol delivers good torque and excellent fuel economy, making it comfortable for highway cruising.

4. How does the Austral’s interior quality compare to the Sportage?

The facelift brings higher‑grade soft‑touch plastics and a larger touchscreen, narrowing the perceived quality gap with the Sportage.

5. What safety ratings has the Austral received?

It currently holds a Euro NCAP 4‑star rating, with the new ADAS helping to boost its score in upcoming assessments.

6. Can I get Apple CarPlay on the base model?

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all trims, including the base model.

7. Is there a manual transmission option?

No, the Austral is only available with a 7‑speed dual‑clutch automatic.

8. How much cargo space does the Austral provide?

It offers 515 L of boot capacity, which is slightly larger than the Sportage and comparable to the Qashqai.

9. Are there any special editions planned?

Renault hinted at a limited‑edition “Austral Alpine” for 2025, featuring unique exterior colours and sport‑tuned suspension.

10. Where can I test drive the facelifted Austral?

Most Renault dealerships across the UK now have the facelifted model on the floor. Booking online via the official Renault UK website is the easiest way.