Renault has revealed further details of its upcoming Austral SUV, this time releasing teaser images showing parts of the interior trim.
One image shows a section of a two-tiered dashboard with a padded matte surface on top, a strip of light running along the step between the two levels and the lower level finished in real wood treated using a Japanese lacquering method. This cabinet-making technique, Renault says, highlights the wood's natural grain by using a cloth to apply several layers of metallic pigments to the wood, helping to maintain the feel of the timber's grain and texture. Below the bottom tier of the dashboard is a long, narrow air vent surrounded by a chrome-effect trim.
Another image shows the strip of light between the two tiers of the dashboard continuing along the surface of the inner door and also a continuation of the black, padded upper surface of the dash along the top of the door panel. The same padding is used on the rear doors too.
The third image is of the Austral's centre console which incorporates a chrome-trimmed hand rest. The design of the centre console, according to the company is "inspired by aviation and watchmaking" and "evokes precision craftsmanship". When sliding the cover back and forward it makes a clicking sound similar to a dial on a safe.
Thus far, Renault has released a lot of information in dribs and drabs prior to the Austral's launch on March 8. We know, for the most part, what it looks like with C-shaped headlights and a lightbar running across the front of the car in a similar fashion to the soon-to-be-launched Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric. We also know about the Austral's engine line-up.
What do we know about the Renault Austral?
The Austral's powertrain options will consist exclusively of hybrid systems.
There'll be a "micro-hybrid" assisted 1.3-litre petrol engine as seen in the Renault Arkana delivering 140hp and fuel consumption of around 5.7 litres/100km, in addition to another new drivetrain using a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 48V hybrid assistance.
A plug-in hybrid option, much the same as that found in the Renault Captur, will, combining its hybrid system with a 1.6-litre petrol engine, provide up to 200hp and around 50km of electric-only range.
Neither a petrol- nor diesel-only model will be offered.
When is the Renault Austral coming to Ireland?
Although the Austral will be revealed on March 8, it won't hit Irish roads until late this year. Pricing has yet to be announced, but considering that it's replacing the outgoing Renault Kadjar, with all the new technology and hybrid powertrains, expect an increase on the Kadjar's €33,550 starting price.