Facelifted Renault Austral Shows Off New Rafale-Style Lights And Grille, Launches in 2025
Introduction
Renault’s Austral SUV is set to receive a facelift, featuring new lights, grille, and bumpers. This update follows the design template established by Renault’s other models like the Rafale coupe-SUV and will also be applied to the larger Esapce, which is a stretched version of the Austral. Along with the exterior changes, Renault is rumored to replace the Austral’s 1.3 TCE inline four engine with a more powerful 1.2 TCE triple.
Background
The Renault Austral was introduced in 2022 as a replacement for the Kadjar. Since then, Renault has adopted a new corporate look for its models, as seen on the Clio, Rafale, and Captur. Now, it’s time for the Austral to receive the same updated front-end design. Additionally, the facelifted Austral is expected to bring significant powertrain changes.
Visual Changes
Our spy photos reveal the revised Austral being tested on mountain roads in Europe. Despite the camouflage, some noticeable visual changes can be seen. The headlights have a boxy shape with new DRLs that are angled differently from the current model. It is expected that the DRLs will have a boomerang shape, similar to other Renault models like the Clio, Captur, and Rafale. The hood has also been redesigned, eliminating the central notch seen on the current model. Instead, it features a straight leading edge and a plastic filler panel between the hood and grille, reducing repair costs in case of a minor collision.
Powertrain Changes
While the rear changes are not clearly visible in the spy photos, it is expected that the rear lights will be tweaked. Interior modifications are likely to be minimal, as the Austral already features Renault’s latest dashboard design. The major changes will be under the hood, with rumors suggesting that the older 1.3 engine will be replaced by an uprated version of the 1.2 engine. The exact details will be revealed when the facelifted Austral makes its debut later this year or early in 2025.
Conclusion
The facelifted Renault Austral is set to bring a refreshed design with new lights, grille, and bumpers. It will follow the design language of Renault’s other models and introduce important powertrain changes. With its anticipated debut later this year or early next year, the updated Austral is expected to continue the success of its predecessor.
