The Renault Austral 1.3 (158 hp) Mild Hybrid Automatic is a compact SUV introduced by Renault in September 2022. Positioned as a mainstream offering within the Austral lineup, it represents a key model in Renault’s strategy to modernize and electrify its range. The Austral replaced the Kadjar in the European market, aiming to provide a more compelling package in the highly competitive C-segment SUV class. This variant utilizes a mild hybrid powertrain designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions while maintaining a balance of performance and affordability. It is built on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance’s CMF-CD3 platform, shared with other models like the Nissan Qashqai.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Austral |
| Generation | Austral |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 (158 Hp) Mild Hybrid Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 140 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6D Full |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 184.4 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 0.15 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 12 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Power | 158 Hp @ 5250-5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 118.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1800-3750 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1800-3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H5Ht |
| Engine displacement | 1333 cm3 (81.34 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.2 mm (2.84 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.3 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1464 kg (3227.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2003 kg (4415.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 539 kg (1188.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1525 l (53.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 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) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, MHEV |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 296×26 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 292×16 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R17; 235/55 R18; 205/55 R19; 235/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 19; 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Renault Austral 1.3 (158 hp) Mild Hybrid Automatic, launched in September 2022, is a five-door, five-seat compact SUV designed to appeal to families and individuals seeking a practical and efficient vehicle. It slots into Renault’s lineup as a replacement for the Kadjar, offering a more modern design, improved technology, and a focus on fuel economy. The ‘Mild Hybrid’ designation indicates a 48-volt system that assists the internal combustion engine, providing a small boost in power and enabling features like extended start/stop functionality. This particular variant, with its 1.3-liter engine and automatic transmission, is positioned as a mid-range option, balancing performance with affordability and ease of use.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Austral 1.3 is Renault’s H5Ht engine, a 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver 158 horsepower at 5250-5500 rpm and 270 Nm (199.14 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1800-3750 rpm. The mild hybrid system consists of a 48V battery and a belt starter generator (BSG). The BSG recovers energy during braking and deceleration, storing it in the battery, and can provide a temporary power boost to the engine during acceleration. The engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT), chosen for its smooth shifting and efficiency. This transmission is a key component in optimizing fuel consumption and providing a comfortable driving experience. The engine management system is tuned to prioritize fuel efficiency, with the mild hybrid system contributing to reduced emissions and improved MPG.
Driving Characteristics
The Renault Austral 1.3 Automatic offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 158 hp engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations, including highway merging and overtaking. The 0-60 mph time of around 9.2 seconds is respectable for the class. The seven-speed DCT transmission shifts smoothly and responsively, contributing to a relaxed driving feel. The mild hybrid system is largely unobtrusive, providing a subtle boost during acceleration. Compared to higher-powered versions of the Austral, this variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. Manual transmission options, if available in other markets, generally offer a more engaging driving experience, but the automatic provides greater convenience, particularly in urban environments. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine may feel slightly strained when climbing steep hills or carrying a full load.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Austral 1.3 Mild Hybrid Automatic typically comes well-equipped, even in base trim levels. Standard features often include a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, automatic climate control, keyless entry, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition. Higher trim levels add features like larger touchscreen displays, premium upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Interior upholstery is typically cloth in lower trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout is modern and driver-focused, with a digital instrument cluster providing key vehicle information.
Chassis & Braking
The Renault Austral utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The torsion beam rear suspension is a cost-effective solution that minimizes weight and complexity. The Austral 1.3 is equipped with ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. The steering is electric power-assisted, providing a light and responsive feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Austral 1.3 Mild Hybrid Automatic has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers have praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel-efficient powertrain. Compared to other trims in the Austral lineup, the 1.3-liter version offers a more affordable entry point, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel economy of 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg) is competitive within the compact SUV segment. However, some critics have noted that the engine can feel underpowered when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to diesel-powered alternatives, the 1.3-liter petrol engine offers lower CO2 emissions but may not match the diesel’s fuel economy in certain driving conditions.
Legacy
The Renault Austral 1.3 Mild Hybrid Automatic represents a significant step forward in Renault’s efforts to offer more efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles. The H5Ht engine, while not groundbreaking, is a reliable and well-proven unit. The mild hybrid system adds a layer of sophistication and contributes to reduced emissions. As a relatively new model, long-term reliability data is still emerging, but early indications suggest that the powertrain is durable and dependable. On the used car market, the Austral 1.3 is expected to hold its value reasonably well, particularly as demand for fuel-efficient vehicles continues to grow. Its combination of practicality, comfort, and affordability should ensure its continued popularity among buyers in the compact SUV segment.
