Renault Austral review

The cabin is dominated by two screens, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 12-inch infotainment display, positioned in an upside down L-shape. The system is built on Android, and seamlessly integrates the likes of Google Maps and Google Assistant, with other apps available through the Google Play store. Graphics too are attractive and logical, and perhaps unexpectedly, it also co-operates nicely with Apple CarPlay. No smartphone sectarianism here.

A clear and crisp 9.3-inch head-up display also comes as standard fit on all but the base Techno trim, while you also get proper hardware switches and stalks to control the climate, stereo and advanced driver assistance systems, the latter you’ll spot to next to the steering wheel in the gallery above. We can't tell you how much this reduces stress.

The transmission is controlled by a stalk, so the centre console is freed up for big trays and cupholders, variously covered and uncovered by a sliding wireless charge pad/padded wrist rest that makes it easier to jab at the touchscreen. Ish.

How do passengers fare?

It’s comfortable enough in the front, and equally roomy in the rear. If you need more bootspace, they slide forward by up to 16cm. This also has the effect of bringing your toddlers closer while you reach around to placate them with carrot batons or those sucky yoghurt sachets. The window line is rather high, mind.

Boot space is 527 litres, or a hefty 1,736 litres with the rear seats folded down. To give you some perspective, that’s more than the Nissan Qashqai e-Power, but smaller than the Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage Hybrid and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. Even so, any prams and suchlike should still fit in with ease.

Anything else we should know?

Browse the configurator and you’ll notice Renault has done with Alpine what BMW did with M, Mercedes with AMG, Toyota with GR etc: it has created badges called Iconic Esprit Alpine and Techno Esprit Alpine. Exactly what your family crossover needed. Neither does anything to the dynamics other than bringing 20-inch wheels, which results in slightly reduced economy. But they are smart trims, with nice sporty fabrics and extra equipment inside, particularly the Harman Kardon stereo on the Iconic, which is a fine thing.

Even so, whatever trim you go for, the impression left by the cabin and materials does feel a step more expensive and stylish than any of its rivals.