@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
@ Renault Group Media
VS

Ford Kuga vs Renault Austral – Differences & prices compared

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Ford Kuga or Renault Austral?

Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

An In-Depth Comparison: Ford Kuga vs. Renault Austral

The automotive market is saturated with a multitude of SUV offerings, but few are as competitive as the Ford Kuga and Renault Austral. Both models promise innovative technologies, efficient engines, and spacious interiors, making them appealing choices for families and adventure seekers alike. In this comparison, we will analyze the technical specifications, innovations, and distinctive features of both vehicles to help you determine which one suits your needs better.

Austral @ Renault Group Media

Engines and Performance

The Ford Kuga stands out in its class with a variety of engine options, catering to different driving styles and environmental preferences. It offers petrol, full hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants, ranging from 150 to 243 horsepower (HP). With impressive fuel consumption figures between 0.9 to 6.4 liters per 100 kilometers, the Kuga ensures that drivers can enjoy spirited performance while remaining mindful of fuel costs and emissions. Additionally, its acceleration capabilities are noteworthy, with the quickest variant reaching 100 km/h in just 7.3 seconds.

On the other hand, the Renault Austral is equipped with petrol MHEV and full hybrid options. Its performance ranges from 158 to 200 HP, with fuel consumption as low as 4.7 liters per 100 kilometers. The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h comes in at 8.4 seconds for the more powerful engine variant, showcasing the Austral's balance of efficiency and responsiveness. While its maximum speed of 174 km/h is slightly lower than the Kuga's, the Austral uses its robust 270 Nm of torque to provide a confident driving experience.

Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Transmission and Drive Options

Both vehicles employ modern transmission systems to enhance driving comfort. The Kuga is available with either a manual or an automatic CVT transmission, and it offers both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. This flexibility allows drivers to choose the setup that best matches their lifestyle, whether they're commuting in the city or exploring rugged terrains.

Conversely, the Austral features an automatic transmission exclusively, optimizing ease of use and providing a seamless driving experience. The front-wheel drive system is standard, focusing on urban and highway driving efficiency. While the variability in drivetrain options may appeal to some, the Kuga’s AWD option could be a deciding factor for buyers seeking adventure capabilities.

Austral @ Renault Group Media

Interior Space and Comfort

When it comes to interior space, the Ford Kuga offers a roomy cabin with a trunk capacity ranging from 412 liters. The 5-seat configuration ensures ample space for passengers, making it a top choice for families. Additionally, the Kuga's payload capacity reaches up to 549 kg, allowing for the transport of heavier loads, which is especially useful for road trips or weekend getaways.

The Renault Austral, meanwhile, boasts a trunk capacity of 500 liters, providing more cargo space compared to the Kuga. Its interior dimensions allow for comfortable seating for five passengers, with a maximum payload capacity of 509 kg. The slightly larger cargo area and efficient use of space can be particularly advantageous for those who prioritize transporting larger items.

Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Innovative Technologies

Both the Ford Kuga and Renault Austral come equipped with a suite of technological innovations aimed at enhancing safety and connectivity. The Kuga benefits from Ford's advanced driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping aid, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The seamless integration of smartphone technologies allows drivers to stay connected while on the move.

Similarly, the Renault Austral integrates an intuitive infotainment system featuring advanced navigation and connectivity options. Its driver assistance features, such as automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, aim to enhance safety across various driving scenarios. Both vehicles reflect a commitment to modern technology, ensuring that drivers can enjoy convenience, safety, and connectivity.

Austral @ Renault Group Media

Conclusion

Choosing between the Ford Kuga and Renault Austral ultimately boils down to personal preferences and priorities. The Kuga offers versatility with multiple powertrain options, enhanced performance, and competitive payload capacities, making it a perfect fit for those who value a more dynamic driving experience. The Austral, on the other hand, excels in fuel efficiency, cargo space, and advanced technology features, appealing to those who seek a practical yet innovative SUV.

In the end, both models present compelling case studies in what modern SUVs offer, ensuring that potential buyers have plenty to consider in their quest for the ideal family vehicle.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Renault Austral has a a bit advantage in terms of price – it starts at 29700 £, while the Ford Kuga costs 34200 £. That’s a price difference of around 4500 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Ford Kuga manages with 2.80 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the Renault Austral with 4.80 L. The difference is about 2 L per 100 km.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Ford Kuga has a slightly edge – offering 243 HP compared to 200 HP. That’s roughly 43 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Ford Kuga is a bit quicker – completing the sprint in 7.30 s, while the Renault Austral takes 8.40 s. That’s about 1.10 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Ford Kuga performs minimal better – reaching 200 km/h, while the Renault Austral tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 20 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Renault Austral pulls a bit stronger with 270 Nm compared to 240 Nm. That’s about 30 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Ford Kuga is hardly perceptible lighter – 1526 kg compared to 1539 kg. The difference is around 13 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Renault Austral offers noticeable more room – 555 L compared to 412 L. That’s a difference of about 143 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Renault Austral performs slightly better – up to 1761 L, which is about 227 L more than the Ford Kuga.

When it comes to payload, Ford Kuga a bit takes the win – 550 kg compared to 477 kg. That’s a difference of about 73 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Ford Kuga proves to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Ford Kuga is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £34,200
Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Ford Kuga

  • Engine Type : Petrol, Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 243 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.8 - 6.8 L
  • Electric Range : 68 km

Ford Kuga

3.5 (2)
rate

The Kuga is Ford’s adaptable family SUV that blends usable space with a surprisingly lively driving character, making daily commutes and weekend escapes equally enjoyable. With smart interior packaging, an easy-to-use infotainment setup and composed road manners, it’s a sensible choice for buyers who want a bit of fun without the fuss.

details

Renault Austral

5 (2)
rate

The Renault Austral dresses the family SUV in elegant modern looks and a surprisingly grown-up cabin that feels thoughtful and livable. It balances comfort and clever technology with a relaxed road presence—an appealing choice for buyers who want style and everyday sense without fuss.

details
Ford Kuga
Renault Austral
Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
Austral @ Renault Group Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
34200 - 46300 £
Price
29700 - 37800 £
Consumption L/100km
2.8 - 6.8 L
Consumption L/100km
4.8 - 6.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
68 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
1.1 - 14.4 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
55 - 154 g/km
co2
109 - 148 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
42 - 54 L
Fuel tank capacity
55 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1526 - 1859 kg
Curb weight
1539 - 1613 kg
Trunk capacity
412 L
Trunk capacity
527 - 555 L
Length
4604 - 4645 mm
Length
4533 mm
Width
1882 mm
Width
1825 mm
Height
1673 - 1681 mm
Height
1645 mm
Max trunk capacity
1534 L
Max trunk capacity
1736 - 1761 L
Payload
541 - 550 kg
Payload
464 - 477 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
CVT, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 243 HP
Power HP
158 - 200 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.3 - 9.9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.4 - 9.7 s
Max Speed
195 - 200 km/h
Max Speed
180 km/h
Torque
240 Nm
Torque
270 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
111 - 178 kW
Power kW
116 - 147 kW
Engine capacity
1496 - 2488 cm3
Engine capacity
1199 - 1332 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, D, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
Brand
Ford
Brand
Renault
What drivetrain options does the Ford Kuga have?

The Ford Kuga is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.