The Renault Austral, set for a mid-cycle refresh, is gearing up to replace its predecessor, which has only been on the market for two years. This upcoming iteration, built on the Renault-Nissan CMF-CD platform, shares its underpinnings with models like the Rafale, Espace, and Qashqai. The 2025 Austral will feature a range of electrified powertrains, including both mild-hybrid and full-hybrid options, with transmission choices spanning manual, automatic, and CVT depending on the configuration.
Recent sightings of the 2025 Renault Austral have revealed the model undergoing testing, disguised under vinyl wraps that hint at its redesigned exterior. The refresh is expected to align the Austral with Renault’s latest corporate design language, similar to that seen on the Clio, Captur, and Rafale. The updates include less angular daytime running lights (DRLs), sharper headlamps, a revised grille, a tweaked hood, front quarter panels, and a reimagined bumper. The rear will also see significant changes, with new taillights, a refreshed bumper, and possibly new color options and wheel designs to complete the makeover.
Inside, the 2025 Austral is expected to retain much of its current modern design, characterized by a vertical infotainment system, a clean center console, a horizontal digital gauge cluster, and a well-designed steering wheel. However, Renault might introduce subtle enhancements, such as updated software for the two main screens, new steering wheels, and refreshed trim and upholstery. Facelifts often bring these kinds of interior upgrades, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Austral benefit from them as well.
While Renault has yet to officially unveil the updated Austral, digital renderings from Kolesa offer a glimpse of what to expect. These realistic illustrations, based on recent spy shots, depict the Austral with a new front fascia that significantly improves its overall aesthetic. The rear has also been reimagined, featuring redesigned taillights and a bi-tone paint scheme that enhances its modern appeal.
Under the hood, rumors suggest that the current 1.3L engine might be replaced by an updated 1.2L unit, likely with mild-hybrid technology to boost efficiency. The rest of the powertrain lineup is expected to remain largely unchanged, ensuring continuity in performance.
The facelifted Renault Austral is anticipated to debut within the next few months, with some reports suggesting a reveal before the end of the year, while others hint at an early 2025 introduction. Regardless of the exact timing, the refreshed Austral is poised to become one of the most attractive options in the compact crossover segment, thanks to its sleeker design and advanced features.
