Renault Laguna GT Revealed

Renault has made a habit over the last ten years of producing stylish transport for the masses and they appear to be keeping to that theme with the new Laguna GT. Renault class the Laguna GT as a sports tourer which should give an indication of the way the vehicle will drive. Two engine options exist for the GT customer and they are both exclusive to the GT range. A 205hp 2.0L turbo petrol engine and a 180hp 2.0L dCi Diesel should provide effortless trans-continental ability.

More interestingly, the Renault Laguna GT’s will come equipped with a sophisticated four wheel steering set up which Renault refer to as its Active Drive chassis. According to the press release some of the benefits are “enhanced manoeuvrability, rigorous dynamic response and unmatched steering precision”. It all sounds very impressive in what is essentially a sporty version of a family vehicle.

The exterior styling is improved over the standard Laguna models with the fitment of special 18 – inch Celsium alloy wheels which hide large 320mm front brake discs. 300mm discs slow down the rear wheels.

The interior boasts dark charcoal leather upholstery and aluminium pedals and gear knob। The Renault Laguna GT will be officially launched at the 2008 Geneva motorshow.








Press Release

RENAULT LAGUNA GT

A CONCENTRATE OF DRIVING PLEASURE AND AUTOMOTIVE EFFICIENCY

Stylish, expressive Renault Laguna GT introduces the new Active Drive chassis with four-wheel steering (4WS) and two exclusive high-performance engines in the form of the diesel 2.0 dCi 180hp and the petrol 2.0 turbo 205hp. Renault Laguna GT makes a sparkling entry into the select field of sports tourers, combining real and perceived quality with performance, safety and driving pleasure.

Not only does the Active Drive chassis with four-wheel steering break new ground on the sporting saloon market but it also brings a long list of real benefits which combine to reach new heights in driveability and active safety. These include enhanced manoeuvrability, rigorous dynamic response and unmatched steering precision which gives the driver truly intuitive control over the cornering line. The steering is immediately reassuring and agreeable, even at low speeds. In town and on winding roads, the car is easy to drive: agile and precise. The Active Drive chassis with four-wheel steering also excels in active safety, both under difficult braking conditions and during avoidance manoeuvres at speed. Sleek and distinctive, Renault Laguna GT delivers a unique and unprecedented blend of driving pleasure and peace of mind at an affordable price which is backed by a three-year (or 150,000km) warranty.

Distinctive GT styling

Renault Laguna GT's stylish looks express an elegance that goes much further than sporting ability alone. The lines of its long, steeply-raked bonnet highlight the purposeful front-end and grille which is redolent of the most powerful Renaults. The car's forceful character is further underpinned by its lateral air-intakes and headlamps with black masks. Renault Laguna GT sits on specific, generously sized 225/45 18-inch Bridgestone Potenza tyres, the DNA of which can be traced back to Formula 1, while the special Celsium wheels barely conceal 320mm diameter discs at the front and 300mm discs at the rear which provide plenty of braking bite.

The promise of the Active Drive chassis is also exuded by the aerodynamically designed sills which extend from the front of the car to the characteristic straight-section twin tailpipe at the rear. Sports tourer attributes run through to every last detail, such as the gloss black wing mirrors and smoked rear lamp units.

Sports interior

As well as appearing on the outside centre pillar, the exclusive GT logo is also embossed on the light grey alcantara of the front seatbacks. As on all Renault Laguna models, the interior design exudes a most impressive sense of comfort and quality for all occupants.

Sports design details abound, highlighting the exclusive capacities of the GT version: cross-drilled aluminium pedal, sports gearshift lever knob, dark charcoal leather upholstery with reinforced lateral support and special steering wheel. Extreme attention has been paid to materials and finish, true to the car’s unwavering commitment to pure motoring pleasure.

GT version with three-year (or 150,000km) warranty

Renault Laguna GT is available in saloon and estate forms, both of which occupy the topend of the Laguna range in terms of technology and engines. In addition to delivering best-in-class performance, driveability and acoustics, the very latest evolution of the 2.0 dCi engine yields exceptional peak power of 180hp/131kW at 3,750rpm, while peak torque of 400Nm is available from 2,000rpm. Renault Laguna GT is also available with a sports version of the two-litre 16-valve petrol unit (205hp/150kW at 5,000rpm; 300Nm from 3,000rpm). Derived from Renault Sport technology as featured on Mégane RS, it has been specifically optimized for Renault Laguna GT. The international media test-drive programme begins on March 20, followed by a staggered sales release schedule for most European countries starting mid-spring. Renault Laguna GT will be unveiled at the 2008

Geneva Motor Show

With its Active Drive chassis and specific powerplants, this is a car for demanding, imageconscious motorists. Yet it is remarkably affordable for a vehicle with this spectrum of features. Renault Laguna GT takes up a unique position on the sports saloon market, offering a sensational driving experience with total peace of mind.
Source: Renault



Related entries:

Renault lineup for Geneva - including new concept and Laguna GT

Dacia Launches Logan Pick-up in Romania

The Dacia Logan family has presented its newest addition, the Logan Pick-up. Expected to go on sale in Romania in March and possibly to have its first public appearance at the Geneva Motor Show, the new vehicle follows the sedan version of Logan, the MCV, the Van and also the Sandero, a vehicle that has had its world premiere in Brazil and will soon be produced in Dacia’s plant in Pitesti. In fact, with the major aesthetic differences between the Logan and the Sandero, maybe it would be a better idea to name the family after its platform, the B0, derived from the B platform used in Nissan and Renault vehicles.
Whatever the correct name is, all cars produced over this platform share its low prices and huge space, and the Pick-up is no exception. In terms of dimensions, it is 4.50 m long, 1.74 m wide, 1.55 m tall and bears an internal luggage compartment that holds up to 300 l. Outside, in the bed, it is possible to carry objects as long as 1.80 m. In terms of prices, they will start at € 7,250.
Power will come from two engines: a petrol 4-cylinder 1।6-litre engine with two valves per cylinder that delivers 90 cv at 5,500 rpm and a peak torque of 128 and two versions of the same 1.5-litre, fed by common rails, with 70 cv and 85 cv. All transmissions will be manual and 5-speed,

Although Renault denies this car will be produced in Brazil, for example, there is an enormous potential for this product in all countries were Logan is sold. And the Pick-up has also enlightened one aspect of recent spy-shots we have published। Check the new rear mirrors in the picture. They are very similar to the ones we have spotted in what is said to be Logan’s replacement and definitely different from the ones used by the current B0 line.



That said, pieces of the new car are being released in other siblings and possibly, as some of our sources have said, the Logan will not be replaced, but remain as a more accessible sedan, while the vehicle we have discovered will supply an upper class customer.

Source: Renault

Related entries:

Dacia Logan Rendering & Spy Photos
Dacia Logan Van Revealed
Dacia Logan MCV in Detail

Dacia Confirms the Production of a New SUV

This is something everyone knew beforehand, but official statements turn strong rumours into reality: François Fourmont, Dacia’s president, has confirmed the Romanian brand will build “a sort of SUV” in an interview before the official presentation of the Dacia Sandero to the European market, which will take place at the Geneva Motor Show. The information has been presented both by Autocar and Automarket.ro, the original source of the information, but we are not than fluent in Romanian, unfortunately।

The new car, according to Automarket।ro, will be based on the Logan Steppe Concept, but we would bet on a stronger possibility, also brought up by Autocar as a first option: the new SUV will be based on the Sandero. Besides presenting more modern looks, and an SUV would cost a little more, appealing to more demanding customers, Sandero has been spotted with all-wheel drive and tall suspension in the Romanian factory of Pitesti, undergoing tests, according to Autocar. It has also first been introduced in Brazil, a country were the “a sort of SUV” type of vehicle has proved to be a huge success since the introduction of the Fiat Palio Weekend Adventure, in 1999. Therefore, it would be a natural decision to premiere the SUV in the South American country as well.

Also called “boutique off-roads”, an expression for their off-road looks, but lack of 4WD and, therefore, reduced (or no) off-road capabilities, these cars are frequently criticised for presenting only a reinforced and raised suspension। The first vehicle that has gone a little beyond that was the Ford EcoSport, based on the current Ford Fiesta, which has the SUV looks and a flagship version equipped with all-wheel drive. Renault is long said to be preparing its SUV over the B0 platform and has even hired one of the men responsible for the EcoSport project in Ford, Cassio Pagliarini, who is currently the Marketing Director of the French automaker in Brazil.

Renault and Ford project’s similarities are evident: the new Dacia/Renault SUV will be a front wheel drive vehicle with 4WD option (just like the EcoSport) and its strongest sales argument will be the low price (EcoSport is the cheapest Brazilian SUV)। Over the Ford competitor, the SUV based on the Sandero would also offer a lot more space. We must have more news about Dacia/Renault’s “sort of SUV” in the months to come. The official presentation will surely not wait until 2009, since the car is part of Renault’s Contract 2009.



Related entries:

Renault Sandero Launched in Brazil
Dacia Logan Rendering & Spy Photos
Dacia Launches Logan Pick-up in Romania

New Twingo Renaultsport Unveiled

Just a day after Renault announce they are to bring the Twingo further to the masses with the launch of their entry-level 'Extreme' model, things have just gotten a whole lot more extrême. It's not the first time that the hot hatch concept has come to the city car, but it's certainly the first time in Renaultsport form. Based largely on the Twingo concept car of 2006, the new Twingo Renaultsport is the third variant to gain the exclusive moniker, joining Clio and Megane hot hatch models.

Designed by Renault Sport Technologies' experts to achieve an affordable city car able both to deliver sports car performance and good day-to-day usability, the Twingo Renaultsport is a car born of a challenge. A 'fiery new' 1.6-litre petrol unit producing 133 hp satisifies the pursuit of an engine suitable in everyday driving and sporting punchiness, while for a refined drive with precise sports handling and responsiveness, the unit is mated to an efficient, balanced chassis.

Twingo Renaultsport is styled to thrill, packaging the compactness of its city car body with more curvaceous, assertive styling. Athletic wider wings, profiled sills and rear spoiler are all suitable additions, while strikingly prominent wheel arches are reminiscent of the previous-generation Clio V6 - a car enthusiasts lapped up with pride. Expect details inside to be similar to those in its siblings', namely optional bucket seats, chromed pedals, and a stylish sports fit and finish.

The new Twingo model was unveiled today near to Paris, France, alongside the international launch of the new R28 Formula 1 car. The F1 car was developed by the same Renaultsport team who developed the Clio, Megane and now new Twingo Renaultsport hatches. The car will make its public debut at March's Geneva Motor Show.



Press Release

TWINGO RENAULT SPORT: EXPERIENCE THE RENAULT SPORT THRILL

Renault Sport Technologies profited from the international launch of the latest R28 Formula 1 single-seater in Boulogne-Billancourt, near Paris, France, today to take the wraps off Twingo Renault Sport. Renault's new, affordable, high-performance car slots into the Renault Sport range alongside its bigger sister cars, Clio and Mégane Renault Sport.

Twingo Renault Sport is a genuine hot hatch with looks to match and was designed to deliver both enjoyable roadholding and genuine sports performance. Its efficient, balanced chassis has been mated to a fiery but flexible 133hp engine to form a package that is sure to appeal to all those who seek sporting sensations and driving pleasure during everyday motoring.

Unmistakable sporting credentials

Renault has produced an affordable high-performance car which sits alongside Clio and Mégane Renault Sport in the Renault Sport range. Twingo Renault Sport's compact proportions and incisive, assertive styling are redolent of the Twingo Concept show car which was unveiled at the 2006 Paris Show. Twingo's existing lines are underpinned by a more curvaceous, athletic stance and the newcomer's sporty calling is further emphasized by its wider front and rear wings, profiled sills and spoiler.

Driving pleasure and sporting sensations during everyday motoring

Twingo Renault Sport is the response of Renault Sport Technologies' experts to a twopronged challenge, namely to deliver sports performance while at the same time ensuring that the new car is easy to use on a day-to-day basis. Twingo Renault Sport's chassis is both responsive and finely tuned to provide precise, balanced sports handling, while specific work on the pitch of its new 133hp 1,598cc engine reveals its punchy temperament.

The public will have the opportunity to examine Twingo Renault Sport in further detail at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show.

Source: Renault

Related entries:

New Twingo Renaultsport Unveiled
New Renault Trafic and Generation Facelifts Revealed
Renault Twingo Concept Unveiled

Renault lineup for Geneva - including new concept and Laguna GT

Carlos Ghosn will be a busy man at Geneva. You’ll spot him easily, he’ll be the guy in the suit with the sweaty brow sprinting in-between the Renault, Dacia, Infiniti and Nissan stands.

He will be spending a considerable amount of time at the Renault stand though as Renault are preparing to release 4 new models at the show. There will also be an announcement regarding the future of its value brand, Dacia.

Initial details of the Twingo RS and the Koleos have been released recently. The Twingo will sport a 133bhp 1.6L engine in its compact little body which should firmly plant it in “pocket rocket” territory. Could this be the spiritual successor to the original Clio 16V?

The Koleos is Renault’s first proper crossover SUV. It shares much with its Nissan X-Trail cousin under the skin so expect similar powertrains and reasonable off road ability.

The start of the show could be the new Laguna GT with Renaultsport honed 4 wheel steer, further details of this vehicle will be available on Friday the 22nd of February.

The fourth vehicle is likely to be a concept car but news on this vehicle is scarce. Renault concept vehicles are usually striking though, so expect a show stopper for Geneva.



Press Release

RENAULT GROUP SET TO TAKE GENEVA MOTOR SHOW 2008 BY STORM
• Four Renault world debuts in Geneva: Twingo Renaultsport, Koleos, Laguna GT with four-wheel-steer chassis honed by Renaultsport, plus stunning concept car
• Pre-show details for Twingo Renaultsport and Koleos already revealed. Laguna GT preliminary information available on Friday 22nd February. Latest concept to be revealed at Renault Press conference (no advance information or photos will be released)
• Renault Press conference at 08:15 on 4th March, Stand 4130
• Dacia Press conference at 13:45 on 4th March, Stand 5030
Nearly two years into its growth plan, Renault Commitment 2009, the fruits of the Renault Group’s unprecedented product offensive continue relentlessly. Following a raft of unveilings at the Geneva and Frankfurt motor shows last year, the former will be the setting next month for no fewer than four new Renault world debuts, plus a major announcement regarding the future of its value brand, Dacia.
Initial details for two of the new Renault models at the show have already been released in recent weeks, namely the eagerly-anticipated Twingo Renaultsport and Koleos, the company’s first compact 4x4. Sharing the limelight will be the new ‘GT’ performance version of New Laguna, with its four-wheel-steer chassis honed by Renaultsport. Further details of this new sports-oriented upper-medium challenger will be released on Friday, 22nd February.
Completing the quartet will be arguably one of the company’s most striking and seductive concept cars. However, no preview information will be released. Following the unprecedented acclaim for the Laguna Coupé Concept at Frankfurt in October last year, the latest beauty to emerge from Renault Design is likely to prove the show-stealer in Switzerland. Like the car itself, details are being kept firmly under wraps until Press Day on 4th March.
Renault Group will be hosting two Press conferences on Tuesday 4th March. Patrick Blain, Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing, will host the Renault event, taking the covers off of the concept car at 08:15 CET on Stand 4130. Later in the day, a Dacia Press conference is scheduled for 13:45 CET on Stand 5030, which will be given by Béatrice Foucher, Product Director.

Source: Renault

Related entries:

2008 Renault Koleos: In Detail
Renault Koleos Concept Unveiled at Paris

Renault lineup for Geneva - including new concept and Laguna GT

Carlos Ghosn will be a busy man at Geneva. You’ll spot him easily, he’ll be the guy in the suit with the sweaty brow sprinting in-between the Renault, Dacia, Infiniti and Nissan stands.

He will be spending a considerable amount of time at the Renault stand though as Renault are preparing to release 4 new models at the show. There will also be an announcement regarding the future of its value brand, Dacia.

Initial details of the Twingo RS and the Koleos have been released recently. The Twingo will sport a 133bhp 1.6L engine in its compact little body which should firmly plant it in “pocket rocket” territory. Could this be the spiritual successor to the original Clio 16V?

The Koleos is Renault’s first proper crossover SUV. It shares much with its Nissan X-Trail cousin under the skin so expect similar powertrains and reasonable off road ability.

The start of the show could be the new Laguna GT with Renaultsport honed 4 wheel steer, further details of this vehicle will be available on Friday the 22nd of February.

The fourth vehicle is likely to be a concept car but news on this vehicle is scarce. Renault concept vehicles are usually striking though, so expect a show stopper for Geneva.

Press Release

RENAULT GROUP SET TO TAKE GENEVA MOTOR SHOW 2008 BY STORM
• Four Renault world debuts in Geneva: Twingo Renaultsport, Koleos, Laguna GT with four-wheel-steer chassis honed by Renaultsport, plus stunning concept car
• Pre-show details for Twingo Renaultsport and Koleos already revealed. Laguna GT preliminary information available on Friday 22nd February. Latest concept to be revealed at Renault Press conference (no advance information or photos will be released)
• Renault Press conference at 08:15 on 4th March, Stand 4130
• Dacia Press conference at 13:45 on 4th March, Stand 5030
Nearly two years into its growth plan, Renault Commitment 2009, the fruits of the Renault Group’s unprecedented product offensive continue relentlessly. Following a raft of unveilings at the Geneva and Frankfurt motor shows last year, the former will be the setting next month for no fewer than four new Renault world debuts, plus a major announcement regarding the future of its value brand, Dacia.
Initial details for two of the new Renault models at the show have already been released in recent weeks, namely the eagerly-anticipated Twingo Renaultsport and Koleos, the company’s first compact 4x4. Sharing the limelight will be the new ‘GT’ performance version of New Laguna, with its four-wheel-steer chassis honed by Renaultsport. Further details of this new sports-oriented upper-medium challenger will be released on Friday, 22nd February.
Completing the quartet will be arguably one of the company’s most striking and seductive concept cars. However, no preview information will be released. Following the unprecedented acclaim for the Laguna Coupé Concept at Frankfurt in October last year, the latest beauty to emerge from Renault Design is likely to prove the show-stealer in Switzerland. Like the car itself, details are being kept firmly under wraps until Press Day on 4th March.
Renault Group will be hosting two Press conferences on Tuesday 4th March. Patrick Blain, Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing, will host the Renault event, taking the covers off of the concept car at 08:15 CET on Stand 4130. Later in the day, a Dacia Press conference is scheduled for 13:45 CET on Stand 5030, which will be given by Béatrice Foucher, Product Director.

Renault Altica Concept Car

A sporty estate with the accent on style

"Altica strikes a successful balance between flowing and sporty lines. This car is an original and futuristic vision of the sporty estate car, while its graphic identity is both bold and innovative."

Patrick le Quément, Renault's Senior Vice President, Corporate Design.

Renault has taken the wraps off its new concept car, Altica, a sporty estate that combines flowing lines with a spacious interior. Its dynamic stance is underpinned by a long bonnet and curved forms, while its modular interior ensures outstanding load capacity.

Altica stands out as a dynamic vision of the estate, combining the practicality of the latter, the sports appeal of a coupé and a high standard of travelling comfort.

Flowing, sporty lines

The panoramic windscreen and rear window underline the car's fluid aerodynamics. The two-tone paintwork accentuates the side design and also asserts Altica's graphic identity. The car's overall stance – low-slung lines, long bonnet, prominent wings – and proportions express true sports car dynamics. Comprised of a mosaic of transparent panes, the rear quarter lights suggest forward movement.

Altica's interior mirrors its sporty, dynamic exterior design. The suspended drive station is held in place by four profiled rods that hint at the world of Formula 1.

The transparent roof and panoramic windscreen erase the boundary between the interior and the outside world and also ensure a brightly-lit cabin. The mosaic design of the rear quarter lights allows sunlight to filter into the cabin much like it does through stained glass windows and gives the interior a more welcoming feel. The layout and angling of the panes ensure good three-quarter rear visibility for the driver which is indispensable when parking.

The headlamps feature four different modes – daytime running lights (DRL), sidelights, dipped beam and main beam – and function using rows of diodes.

They also produce a halo effect when the DRL mode is selected. This is achieved in two ways. First of all, each polycarbonate headlamp module cover is speckled with thousands of small, micro-engraved nicks. Invisible to the naked eye, these nicks have no effect on the beams and permit light to pass unhindered. In the daytime running mode, however, the surface of the module cover is illuminated from the edge. The light is accordingly trapped inside the mass and spreads out like a fluid over the entire surface to produce an original and effective halo effect for the DRL and sidelight functions.

An estate with the accent on style

Altica's sports pedigree is reinforced by its scissor doors, the form of which ensures easy access to this low vehicle.

The generous interior volumes of Altica provide a very high standard of travelling comfort despite the car's sporty characteristics. Each of the four individual seats boasts outstanding comfort.

Instead of the seats, which are fixed, it is the drive station and pedal assembly that adjust to match the driver's physique thanks to a motorized mechanism. The height-adjustable centre armrest deploys automatically as the driver sits down.

The vertical positioning of the dashboard takes its inspiration from the world of aeronautics and permits the driver to feel at one with the car.

The centrally-positioned dial features two display modes: "comfort" and "sport". The "comfort" mode indicates the car's speed in the centre of the display while the perimeter shows the legal speed limits which turn red if exceeded. In the "sport" mode, the speed continues to be displayed in the middle of the dial but the perimeter becomes a digital rev counter and turbo pressure indicator. The graphics of the high-resolution screen provide a distinctly human touch to this high-tech display which itself suggests watchmaker-like precision and sophistication.

Altica features a number of clever storage spaces, including the shell-like glove box, concertina-style storage compartment in the armrests and a tray situated underneath the floor at the rear.

The rear seat backs can be folded into the flat floor which is equipped with straps that permit heavy or bulky loads to be held secure. This layout transforms Altica into a two-seater sports coupé with a vast 1,300-litre boot, while the boot lid provides very easy access and an extremely low loading sill.

Driving pleasure, power and control

Altica is a dynamic sporty estate that combines driving pleasure with a sensation of power and control.

With its long bonnet, sports dimensions (length: 4.27m; width: 1.83m) and very low centre of gravity, Altica offers remarkable performance.

Altica's new 177hp 2.0 dCi particulate filter-equipped diesel engine takes the car from a standing start to 100kph in just 7.5s. Coupled with a six-speed gearbox, this powerplant – which boasts maximum torque of 380Nm – provides excellent pull-away and mid-range acceleration. This hasn't been achieved to the detriment of fuel consumption, however. The Renault-Nissan Alliance engine is very inexpensive to run and fuel consumption is equivalent to 140g of CO₂ per kilometre. In terms of both performance and driving pleasure, it stands out as the best diesel engine in its class and a version of which, without the particle filter, debuts in the Laguna GT dCi 175 this month.

Altica's low fuel consumption also stems from its exceptional aerodynamics. Located at the extremity of the roof at the point where the vehicle and the passing air flow separate, a discreet mechanical system generates jets of air which are alternately blown and sucked through a 2mm wide slit. Known as "Synthetic Jet", the system actively controls the separation of the air flow according to the vehicle's speed. This innovative technique, which reduces drag and controls the structure of the air flow, is a registered Renault patent and reduces the car's Cd at 80mph by 15% for an energy consumption of just 10W.

Valeo

Altica's lights employ high-performance light emitting diodes (LEDs).

The dipped and main beam functions are housed in a single module which tops a linear directional light. The LED control unit permanently adapts the quantity and orientation of the beam as a function of the conditions.

During motorway driving, the LEDs that ensure long range visibility are automatically activated and controlled to guarantee optimum visibility at all times without dazzle. The colour of the light emitted by the LEDs is similar to that of daylight for enhanced optical comfort and visibility.

The daytime running light (DRL) mode, which is activated most of the time while the car is moving, also use LEDs. Their high efficiency and the low amount of energy they require significantly reduce the power that is consumed compared with a conventional light source. The life expectancy of LEDs is also much longer than that of all contemporary light sources.

As a world first, the sidelight function is ensured by a veil of light that covers the entire headlamp thanks to Valeo's exclusive MicroOptique technology.

Renault Altica Concept Car Specifications

Overall length	4,270mm
Width (excluding door mirrors)	1,830mm
Height	1,360mm
Wheelbas6e	2,620mm
Front and rear track	1,540mm
Front overhang	936mm
Rear overhang	714mm
Ground clearance	175mm
Weight	1,300kg

• Four-cylinder 2.0-litre 16-valve turbocharged Euro 4-compliant dCi diesel engine with balancer shafts and particulate filter

• Power: 130kW / 177hp and maximum torque of 380Nm at 2,000rpm

• Standing start to 62mph in 7.5 seconds

• Maximum CO2 emission:140g/km, for a standard cycle fuel consumption of 5.3l/100km

• Six-speed manual gearbox

• Front-wheel drive, front, transverse-mounted engine

• 21-inch wheels

• 245 / 35 - ZR21 tyres

• Valeo

• Exclusive MicroOptique technology: micro-engraved module cover for the daylight running light (DRL) and sidelight functions. Lighting and signal functions using high-performance LEDs

• Michelin

• Pilot Sport 2 tyres

• Montupet

• Specific light alloy wheels

Interior

• Four independent seats; the two rear seats can be folded down to obtain a boot storage volume of up to 1,300 litres

• Drive station suspended by four rods

• Motorized adjustment of pedal assembly and steering wheel positions

• The steering wheel and pedal assembly move automatically clear when the door opens; automatically deploying centre armrest.

• Analogue and digital centrally-positioned instrument with two display modes: "sport" and "comfort"

• Additional storage space underneath the rear parcel shelf of the boot floor

• Active Synthetic Jet system located at the rear edge of the roof reduces drag at 80mph by 15%

• Two scissor doors activated by optical sensors

• Panoramic windscreen and transparent roof

• Mosaic rear quarter lights optimize 3/4 rear visibility

• Wide boot lid opening and very low loading sill (located 450mm from the ground)

Related entries:

Renault Megane III Spied

streamlined new Renault Megane Spy

Still being tested in advance of its debut later this year, the third generation Renault Megane was picked up by a spy photographer this week. These photos seem to be of the Megane 5-door hatchback. Speculatively based on the Renault Altica concept car from the 2006 Geneva Motor Show, the new Megane should take on several different incantations, including 3-door, 5-door, sedan, and coupe models. A convertible, crossover, and station wagon could also be in the pipeline.

The current generation of the Megane is already six years old, having received a facelift in 2006. Although Renault gave the car a new nose that year, we never really liked the rear of the car. We're hoping this year Renault refreshes the car all around, so that we can feel proud when we drive one. Our artist's rendering, in the gallery at right, shows this cleaned up look. We would also like to assume that the RenaultSport trim level sticks around, with improvements to the trim's 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol engine, getting 225 horsepower.

Supposedly coming out at the Paris Auto Show this September, the Renault Megane Mk3 will be competing against a crowded field, with the Fiat Bravo, Ford Focus, Opel Astra, Peugeot 308, and VW Golf all battling for market share.

Related entries:

Renault Megane III Spied
Renault Altica Concept Car

2008 Renault Koleos: In Detail

First 4x4 crossover from Renault

Renault has finally done it, they have built their own, and very first for the French automaker, crossover vehicle. Renault has named it the Renault Koleos and is a true multi-cultural project. Renault designed the car, Nissan developed the crossover and Renault Samsung Motors manufactured it at their Busan plant in Korea. The Koleos will take its first bow at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show.

The Renault Koleos comes in either two-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive, measures 4,52 meters in length, 1.85 meters in width, has 206 mm (diesel powered 188mm) ground clearance and comes with a choice of two engines. The petrol engine produces 126 kW (175 hp) of power and will be coupled to a six-speed manual transmission, while some markets will also see a six-speed automatic. The diesel engine can be had with two power outputs, 110 kW (150 hp) or 127 kW (175 hp) where the 175 hp version is only available as a 4x4 with manual transmission and the entry level crossover is available in 4x4 or 4x2 with either an automatic or manual six-speed.

Besides being the first crossover for Renault, the Koleos is also the first to feature 4-wheel-drive from its launch. As mentioned before, Nissan developed the car which resulted in the Koleos using the Nissan X-Trail's suspension system. The All mode 4x4-I system spreads torque to where it is most needed, so under normal driving conditions only the front wheels receive torque, but when grip decreases up to 50% of torque is directed to the r

Press Release

First 4x4 crossover from Renault

Renault is pleased to present Koleos, its first ever crossover. Ideal for escaping the everyday routine, Renault Koleos is comfortable, easy to drive and boasts genuine off-road ability. It has been designed to be versatile, too, offering the same reassuring drive when motoring in and about town, on open roads and on motorways as it does when it is taken off the beaten track. Meanwhile, Renault Koleos delivers the same standard of comfort as that expected of a saloon car, as well as cabin space worthy of a compact MPV.

Designed by Renault, developed by Nissan and manufactured in Renault Samsung Motors' Busan plant in Korea, Renault Koleos is the fruit of extremely close collaboration between teams from each of these Renault-Nissan Alliance brands.

Renault Koleos will be on show at the Geneva Motor Show from March 4, 2008. The launch of Koleos marks a decisive step in the brand's development, not only in Europe but across the world. The release of its first 4x4 crossover is a sure sign that Renault has the capacity to take its own authentic stance and a completely fresh approach in segments from which it has traditionally been absent.

Renault Koleos offers a unique standard of safety and comfort, a parameter that has become a recognised Renault hallmark which is not only clear for all to see but also highly affordable.

The release of Koleos sees Renault take the wraps off its first ever 4x4 crossover, a vehicle designed for getting away from it all which combines an efficient all-wheel drive chassis, the dynamic lines of a saloon car and the cabin space of an MPV.

Renault has made sure that Koleos has all the necessary genes to ensure that all passengers travel first class and that the new vehicle is easy to use. The seating and suspension provide a high standard of comfort and the driver benefits from outstanding forward visibility thanks to the low-mounted dashboard, while Koleos' split-opening tailgate greatly facilitates loading.

ear wheels.

Please read the attached detailed press release for further details.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Related entries:

Renault Koleos Concept Unveiled at Paris