The Renault Austral 1.2 E-TECH Full Hybrid Multimode, launched in September 2022, represents Renault’s entry into the increasingly competitive compact SUV segment. Positioned as a technologically advanced and fuel-efficient option, the Austral is built upon the third-generation CMF-CD platform, shared with other Renault and Nissan models. This particular variant, featuring a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with a full hybrid system and a multimode automatic transmission, aims to balance performance with economy, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and modern SUV. It serves as a key model in Renault’s strategy to electrify its lineup and offer compelling alternatives to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Austral |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 (199 Hp) E-TECH Full Hybrid Multimode |
| Start of production | September, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 104 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6D Full + Euro 6E |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm, 135.1 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 2 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 400 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Electric motor power | 68 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 205 Nm (151.2 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| System power | 199 Hp |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 1750 rpm (151.2 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HR12 |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75.5 mm (2.97 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.3 mm (3.52 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System, Particulate filter |
| Kerb Weight | 1517 kg (3344.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2153 kg (4746.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 636 kg (1402.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1455 l (51.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4510 mm (177.56 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1843 mm (72.56 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2083 mm (82.01 in.) |
| Height | 1644 mm (64.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2667 mm (105 in.) |
| Front track | 1482 mm (58.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Front overhang | 925 mm (36.42 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 917 mm (36.1 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180 mm (7.09 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.1 m (33.14 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission E-TECH multi-mode |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 330×16 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), 4-wheel steering (4WS, active rear steering) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/55 R18; 205/55 R19; 235/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 19; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Renault Austral 1.2 E-TECH is the HR12 engine, a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 130 horsepower at 4500 rpm and 205 Nm (151.2 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance efficiency and power output. The “E-TECH” designation signifies Renault’s full hybrid system. This system incorporates a 68 hp electric motor integrated with the multimode automatic transmission, drawing power from a 2 kWh lithium-ion battery. The transmission itself is a complex unit, featuring four forward gears and a dedicated gear for electric-only operation. The system intelligently blends power from the engine and motor, allowing for electric-only driving at lower speeds and assisting the engine during acceleration. The hybrid system also incorporates a regenerative braking system to recapture energy and recharge the battery.
Driving Characteristics
The 199 hp combined output of the engine and electric motor provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.4 seconds. The E-TECH multimode transmission prioritizes fuel efficiency, resulting in smooth but sometimes less-than-immediate responses to throttle inputs. Compared to higher-powered versions of the Austral, this variant offers a more relaxed driving experience. The electric motor provides instant torque, improving responsiveness at lower speeds, but the overall sensation is less sporty than models equipped with more powerful engines. The transmission’s programming is geared towards maximizing fuel economy, which can sometimes result in the engine revving higher during acceleration before the transmission shifts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Renault Austral 1.2 E-TECH Full Hybrid Multimode typically comes well-equipped, reflecting its positioning as a modern and technologically advanced SUV. Standard features often include a digital instrument cluster, a large touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery is typically cloth or a combination of cloth and synthetic leather, depending on the trim level. Optional extras can include a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and leather upholstery. Trim levels vary by market, but generally offer increasing levels of luxury and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The Austral utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness. Front brakes are ventilated discs measuring 350×30 mm, while rear brakes are solid discs measuring 330×16 mm. The braking system is assisted by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and other electronic stability control systems. Some versions of the Austral also feature four-wheel steering (4WS), which enhances maneuverability at low speeds and stability at higher speeds.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Austral 1.2 E-TECH Full Hybrid Multimode has been generally well-received by automotive critics, who praise its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. However, some reviewers have noted the transmission’s occasionally hesitant responses and the engine’s somewhat unrefined character. Compared to other trims in the Austral lineup, the 1.2 E-TECH offers the best fuel economy but less outright performance. It competes with other hybrid SUVs in the compact segment, such as the Toyota C-HR and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, offering a compelling alternative with its distinctive styling and Renault’s focus on innovation.
Legacy
The Renault Austral 1.2 E-TECH Full Hybrid Multimode represents a significant step in Renault’s electrification strategy. While it is still relatively new to the market, early indications suggest that the powertrain is proving to be reliable. The hybrid system’s complexity may require specialized maintenance, but Renault’s extensive dealer network should provide adequate support. As the demand for fuel-efficient vehicles continues to grow, the Austral 1.2 E-TECH is likely to become a popular choice in the used car market, offering a blend of practicality, technology, and economy.
