The Renault Austral (Phase II, introduced in 2025) 1.2 E-TECH Full Hybrid Multimode represents Renault’s continued push into electrified powertrains within the compact SUV segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Austral lineup, this variant combines a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and a sophisticated multimode automatic transmission to deliver a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The Austral itself is built upon the CMF-CD platform, shared with other Renault and Nissan models, and is primarily aimed at the European market, offering a modern alternative to established competitors like the Peugeot 3008 and Volkswagen Tiguan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Austral |
| Generation | Austral (Phase II, 2025) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 (200 Hp) E-TECH Full Hybrid Multimode |
| Start of production | 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 106 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 | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 130 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 133.3 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 2 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 400 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the front seats |
| Electric motor power | 70 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 205 Nm (151.2 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| System power | 200 Hp |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 1750 rpm (151.2 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System, Particulate filter |
| Kerb Weight | 1538-1612 kg (3390.71 – 3553.85 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090-2142 kg (4607.66 – 4722.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530-552 kg (1168.45 – 1216.95 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 527 l (18.61 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1736 l (61.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4533 mm (178.46 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2083 mm (82.01 in.) |
| Height | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2667 mm (105 in.) |
| Front track | 1482 mm (58.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Front overhang | 949 mm (37.36 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 917 mm (36.1 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180 mm (7.09 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.1 m (33.14 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. FHEV. ICE and electric motor drive front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Multimode |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS, 4-wheel steering |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 235/55 R18; 205/55 R19; 235/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 19; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Austral 1.2 E-TECH is the Renault H5Ht 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 engine is paired with two electric motors – a 70 hp electric motor integrated into the multimode automatic transmission and a high-voltage starter-generator. This configuration allows for a range of driving modes, including pure electric driving for short distances, and efficient hybrid operation. The multimode transmission, a key component of the E-TECH system, isn’t a traditional automatic or CVT; it features a unique arrangement of gears and clutches to optimize power delivery and fuel economy. It effectively provides a continuously variable ratio without the typical ‘rubber band’ feel often associated with CVTs.
Driving Characteristics
The 200 hp combined output of the engine and electric motors provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.4 seconds. The E-TECH system prioritizes efficiency, and the power delivery feels smooth and refined, particularly in hybrid mode. Compared to lower-powered versions of the Austral, this variant offers noticeably improved acceleration and responsiveness. However, it doesn’t deliver the sporty feel of some competitors with more powerful engines. The multimode transmission is programmed to maximize fuel economy, which can sometimes result in slightly hesitant responses during quick acceleration. The electric motor assistance helps to fill in torque gaps, providing a more linear power delivery than the 1.2-liter engine would offer on its own.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 E-TECH Full Hybrid Multimode trim typically includes a generous level of standard equipment. This often encompasses features such as a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, automatic climate control, keyless entry, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery is typically cloth or a combination of cloth and synthetic leather, with higher trim levels offering full leather options. Optional extras can include a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio system, and parking assist features.
Chassis & Braking
The Austral utilizes an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This provides a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is electric power-assisted, offering a light and precise feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than outright sportiness, prioritizing a smooth and controlled ride.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Austral 1.2 E-TECH Full Hybrid Multimode has been generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined powertrain. Compared to the petrol-only versions of the Austral, the hybrid variant offers significantly improved fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions. However, some reviewers have noted that the hybrid system adds weight, which slightly impacts handling. Compared to competitors like the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid and Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid, the Austral offers a competitive combination of price, features, and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Renault E-TECH hybrid technology represents a significant step forward for Renault in terms of electrification. The 1.2 E-TECH powertrain, while relatively new, is expected to prove reliable due to Renault’s extensive experience with hybrid systems. The long-term durability of the hybrid components, particularly the battery pack, will be a key factor in determining the Austral’s overall reliability. On the used car market, the Austral 1.2 E-TECH is likely to hold its value well due to its fuel efficiency and the growing demand for hybrid vehicles. The combination of a modern design, efficient powertrain, and comfortable interior positions the Austral as a compelling option in the competitive compact SUV segment.
