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Renault Austral E Iconic

Austral E-Tech Iconic Full Hybrid 200 on test

After the environmental bonus for plug-in hybrids expires in 2023, full hybrid cars will gain in importance. With the Austral E-Tech Full Hybrid, Renault is presenting a powerful version with a system output of 200 hp. The SUV is predestined for long distances and relaxed cruising. The three-cylinder in-line engine with 131 hp is combined with a 68 hp electric motor powered by a 1,7 kWh battery. A long-distance test reveals the qualities of the Austral E.

The test version in our test is equipped with the highest equipment level "Iconic Esprit Alpine" with a few extras. These include 20-inch alloy wheels, an attractive nappa leather steering wheel and electrically adjustable front seats. The assistance systems include a blind spot warning system with active steering intervention, cross-traffic warning with rear emergency brake assistant and "Active Driver Assist".  

Iconic features

The Austral replaces the previous Kadjar model. Based on the new CMF-CD platform, there are some interesting further developments in the areas of interior design, engine management and driver assistance systems compared to the previous model. The space in the rear is sufficient for up to 3 people. There are also two USB charging sockets for the rear seats and two air-conditioning outlet channels. A fold-down center armrest with two beverage containers is integrated into the center of the rear bench seat. This seat has a classic 2/3 split and can be moved manually up to 15 cm further forward for a more spacious trunk.

At the front when looking at the cockpit, the trend towards digitization, which was already realized in the Megane E-Tech, is missing. A digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel and a central angled infotainment display in portrait format dominate the driver's cockpit. The multifunction steering wheel covered in nappa leather with integrated controls can be operated quickly and intuitively.

Three control levers are mounted one below the other behind the steering wheel on the right-hand side. From top to bottom, these are the auto selector, windshield wiper controls, and audio controls. The audio control is unfortunately completely covered by the steering wheel. But it could also be completely neglected and replaced by the audio controls in the steering wheel.

Austral E-Tech Iconic Full Hybrid 200 - Adaptive inner side door
Austral E-Tech Iconic Full Hybrid 200 - Adaptive Inner Side Door

Sophisticated driver assistance systems

The car is equipped with a very complex full hybrid system. The two engines are equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission for the combustion engine and a two-speed transmission for the electric motor. This means that up to 15 speed steps can be implemented while driving. From the driver's point of view, however, the automatic transmission works relatively calmly and shifts gears without large gradations.

While driving, the drives work in parallel or individually depending on the load. In built-up areas, the purely electric route sections are limited to parking and, due to the low battery capacity, to short distances. As with other manufacturers, the downgrade is to one three cylinders-Combustion engine has advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, the consumption in the compact SUV segment in everyday driving with 5 to 6 liters of premium petrol in ECO mode is moderate for the heavy SUV and therefore produces fewer pollutants. On the other hand, the three-cylinder runs rougher than a comparable four-cylinder.

Austral E-Tech Iconic Full Hybrid 200 - Center infotainment display
Austral E-Tech Iconic Full Hybrid 200 - Center infotainment display

800 km long-distance test Kiel - Berlin - Kiel

With the adaptive driving control, the SUV clearly demonstrates its advantages in the area of ​​relaxed cruising in long-distance traffic. The extensive assistants were tested extensively on our extended test drive. On extended freeway journeys, the automated cruise control must be able to clearly identify all vehicle profiles ahead, from large-format trucks to the narrow silhouette of a motorcycle.

In the current version, the adaptive cruise control provides relaxed regulation of the driving speed in all regular driving situations on long journeys and maintains a selected distance from the vehicle in front. The menu can also be used to set the prescribed speed limits to be adjusted automatically. Here the regulation works with a slight time lag when the limits are falling. When the turn signal is activated, the speed is already actively increased and it is easier to cut in quickly without obstructing the following traffic.

Austral E-Tech Iconic Full Hybrid 200 - Adaptive Cruise Control
Austral E-Tech Iconic Full Hybrid 200 - Adaptive Cruise Control

long-distance qualities

All assistants can also be individually configured and adjusted to your own needs. However, the settings were not completely saved after the car was switched off. Other pleasant accessories are configurable ambient lighting and a very good sounding harman/kardon sound system with easily adjustable settings.

If you want to relax with a massage while driving, you can call up various programs with different intensities on the front seats. Even more important and functional is the easy-to-read head-up display with all the essential information about the driving speed, maximum speed and the navigation instructions. It's entertaining and doesn't seem overwhelming.

The long-distance ambience and the seats with good lateral support convey a safe and easily manageable driving experience. On this test track, we were able to achieve a good consumption value for an SUV with an average consumption of 5,6 liters of Super E10 in Eco mode, mainly at highway speed.

Conclusion

The Austral E full hybrid in Iconic equipment is probably the answer to classic combustion engines of the past. It convinces with an attractive finish, a well thought-out interior concept and enough space for up to 5 people or a trunk that can be used variably. With these flexible application options, the Renault Austral E ideal for leisure activities or interesting as a family car.

Addendum

Test from spring 2023

How do you like the new Austral E?

N. Hawthorn
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