French manufacturer Renault announces that the development process of the future compact SUV Austral is nearing completion. In other words, the model that will replace the Kadjar crossover in the range is very close to the official launch on the market. This could take place in the first half of 2022.
The new Austral is currently conducting the latest tests, known in the industry as the “Confirmation Runs”. They take place on the roads of France, Spain, Germany and even Romania and aim to bring the final touches before the car reaches showrooms.
Renault Austral will be longer and wider than Kadjar
The Hexagon manufacturer is testing a fleet of about 100 vehicles. At the wheel of them are 900 drivers, who will cover about two million kilometers in the next period. Of this total, 600,000 kilometers will consist of road tests and the rest on circuits.
During this last round of testing, French engineers will monitor the settings of the company’s new platform, called CMF-CD3. Other adjustments will also be made to the driver assistance systems, sound insulation and suspension.
Renault officials have officially announced that the new Austral will only be available with mild-hybrid and full-hybrid propulsion systems. The power range will extend to 200 hp and the level of CO2 emissions will be very low. No other technical details were disclosed.
The range of engines will include a 1.3 TCe unit with 12V mild-hybrid system, a new 1.2 TCe unit with sistem mild-hybrid la 48V and a thruster E-Tech Hybrid last generation.
In terms of size, the new Austral will be 4.51 meters long, being slightly longer than the model it replaces. The new SUV also appears to be wider than Kadjar and will be able to accommodate up to five adults.
The official launch of Renault Austral will take place this spring.
Source: Engine1
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