There’s yet another option for those drivers looking for a C-SUV. By John Challen.

Renault Austral

The Renault Megane E-Tech made a big impression when it was introduced, kick-starting the French OEM’s journey to electrify its range. Now there’s an addition to that lineup – and it comes in the form of a full hybrid C-segment SUV (yes, another one).

Austral is the first Renault to be built on the Alliance-developed CMF-CD platform and features a more powerful and efficient version of the E-Tech full hybrid system. In reality, that delivers a combined 200hp from a 1.2-litre turbo petrol and electric motor. It’s the only powertrain offered with Austral and Renault says it enables up to 80% of city driving to be completed in EV mode. The carmaker is claiming fuel economy of up to 60.1mpg for the range and as little as 105g/km CO2 (110g/km for the top-spec car).

There is also a big improvement in quality inside and out, with loads of technologies and 30 ADAS examples. Such was the importance placed on the UK market that a specialist team of 20 test engineers were deployed as part of developments tailored to the country.

One of the biggest changes over previous Renaults is the third generation of the company’s four-wheel steering system. Dubbed 4Control Advanced (and standard on the range-topping car), it offers much improved manoeuvrability, thanks to up to 5° of travel from the rear wheels. As a result, a turning circle of 10.1m is possible, compared with 11.2m from the two-wheel steering versions. It does take some getting used to, though – because, combined with the relatively light steering, there’s a lot of movement on initial inputs that might catch some drivers by surprise.

There are three trim levels in the Austral range, starting with the £34,695 Techno. Here, you’ll find 19-inch alloys, a 12-inch multimedia screen, 12.3-inch driver information screen and a 9.3-inch head-up display. Make no mistake – Austral is designed to offer a lot of screen space for your money. There’s also Google systems as standard and matrix LED headlights.

Move onto the Techno Esprit Alpine and there’s bigger wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, and electric front seats with driver’s massage function. Adaptive cruise control is included here, as is Alpine detailing, reinforcing the ‘sporty’ link with Renault’s sister brand. Esprit Alpine is a £2,000 price walk up from the base model, or £396 a month (compared with £367).

Finally, there’s the Iconic Esprit Alpine, which adds that four-wheel steering as standard, along with a Harman Kardon stereo, 360° camera, panoramic sunroof and wireless phone charging. It’s just under £40,000 for the range-topper, or £435 a month.

Overall, Renault’s latest addition is a welcome addition to the C-SUV segment. But it arrives at a time when it will face a lot of competition from some very capable cars. The full hybrid option will appeal to many, although the gearbox can be quite sluggish to react to throttle inputs. But on the whole, refinement is pretty good and there is plenty of power when required. Certainly a step in the right direction from the French OEM.

IN BRIEF

WHAT IS IT? C-SUV Hybrid

HOW MUCH? From £34,695

ECONOMY? 57.7-60.1mpg

EMISSIONS? 105-110g/km

Key fleet model: Iconic Esprit Alpine

Pros: Interior tech and displays; economy

Cons: Firm ride; sluggish gearbox

7-word summary: Super spec and hybrid tech from Renault

Also consider: Ford Kuga / Kia Sportage / Toyota RAV4