Renault has announced further details of its Austral E-Tech full hybrid SUV, which launches this summer.

The Austral full hybrid SUV supports Renault’s plans to “re-conquer the C-segment” and enhance its focus on electrified cars

The replacement to the Kadjar, the Austral family SUV supports the carmaker’s plans to “re-conquer the C-segment” and enhance its focus on electrified cars, as per the ‘Renaulution’ strategy.

The sole powertrain in the UK is a 200hp petrol full hybrid with a 1.7kWh lithium-ion battery that achieves up to 60.1mpg on the combined WLTP cycle, with emissions from 105g/km of CO2 and an electric-only mode for city driving.

It forms a trio of electrified C-segment models in the Renault range, joining the fully electric Megane E-Tech and the hybrid Arkana E-Tech.

Demand for full hybrids in the UK continues to rise. Latest SMMT figures show demand for the first quarter of 2023 was up 36.9% while Renault data published in March showed its own electrified vehicle sales, including fully electric cars, were up year-on-year by 96% compared to February YTD 2022, with hybrid sales rising by 131%.

Alongside its full hybrid powertrain, the Renault Austral will also deliver a sporty SUV design with a boot capacity of up to 555 litres, accessed via an electric tailgate on selected trims.

The interior features a contoured cockpit, 35 litres of modular storage and a range of technologies, including a wireless smartphone charging station and up 30 advanced driver assistance systems, plus Multi-Sense driving modes for different journeys and terrains.

Three versions will be offered – Techno, Techno Esprit Alpine and the Esprit Alpine.

The Techno includes 19-inch alloy wheels, matrix LED vision headlights, mirage-effect rear LED lights, flush roof bars, shark fin antenna, surround parking sensors with rear-view camera, and hands-free key card with keyless entry.

Digital solutions include twin 12-inch screens for multimedia and driver information and a 9.3-inch head-up display, all powered by Google services, which include Google Play, Google Maps and Google Assistant. A range of up to 35 apps with exclusive content are available. Two front and two rear USB ports ensure connectivity with the 8-speaker Arkamys audio system.

The Techno Esprit Alpine model ups equipment with 20-inch alloy wheels, Esprit Alpine detailing, heated front seats and steering wheel, electric power tailgate, electric driver and front passenger seats with massage function, traffic & speed sign recognition with overspeed prevention, and adaptive cruise control with lane centring.

The top-rung Esprit Alpine adds in four-wheel steering, 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, 360-degree around view 3D camera, panoramic sunroof, and wireless phone charging station.

Pricing and offers for the Austral E-Tech will be announced shortly. Interested customers can also sign up to a priority list – accessible at Renault.co.uk – and pay a £500 deposit to secure a place when orders open.