Top selling car brand accidentally leaks bold new look for a popular model… just two years after it made its debut

A TOP selling car brand has accidentally leaked the bold new design of a popular model ahead of its release.

The car only came out two years ago but is already slated for a facelift.

Renault debuted the Austral SUV in 2022 as a successor to the highly popular Kadjar.

A close cousin of the new Espace, it is currently only available in mild or full hybrid spec using the E-Tech platform.

At the time, company design director Agneta Dahlgren heralded the car’s “combination of generous shapes, curved shoulders, projecting sides and the integration of subtle technical details”.

However, the company is already planning to release an updated version with several design tweaks.

The new variant is not scheduled for release until next year but Renault accidentally spoiled the surprise when a photo of it leaked online.

The image was briefly available for customers to view on the Renault website in the online configurator.

This tool allows prospective buyers to see how their car will look, for example, in different colours or with added extras.

But the brand accidentally loaded the new Austral into the app, meaning those looking to buy one were greeted with the snap of the redesigned car.

The overhaul includes a new grille, changes to the headlights and a reconfigured nose.

While the changes may seem minor, it’s still unusual for a manufacturer to facelift one of its models so early – with most waiting at least three years before tinkering with the design.

And the changes go deeper than just the superficial, with Renault set to upgrade the suspension and refine the engine to comply with the latest EU emission standards.

Engineers will also look to improve the gearbox and ride quality, which have met with early criticism for occasionally feeling a little clunky.

The biggest change, though, is that it is rumoured that a first-ever plug-in hybrid version of the model could be introduced under the new design.

The tech is expected to be borrowed from the similar Rafale model, developing up to 296 horsepower.

Pricing hasn’t been confirmed, but the Austral currently retails from £34,695.

It comes after Renault revealed it would be reviving one of its more unusual motors for the first time in nearly 40 years after it was discontinued.