Super TestCar reviews - Renault - Laguna - 2.2dCiRenault modelsOverviewRenault Australia is about to embark on a turbo-diesel frenzy, led by the Laguna13 Nov 2006 By CHRIS HARRIS IT is a common fact that the French have carved out a niche in the world of turbo-diesel technology. Notwithstanding the Germans, they produce some of the most fuel-efficient and eco-friendly diesels around. Given the rush to turbo diesel power this year, Renault has joined the fray with its new Laguna Mk II 2.2 dCi turbo-diesel. It’s no secret that the previous Mk I petrol models failed to ignite sales – they sold just over 1500 over almost four-years - but the Phase II model, as a diesel-only offering, may provide the mid-size hatch with broader appeal. Model release date: 1 November 2006 to 1 May 2008 All car reviewsAlfa Romeo Abarth Alpine Alpina Audi Aston Martin BMW Bentley Chevrolet Chery Citroen Chrysler Dodge Cupra Ferrari DS Ford Fiat FPV Foton GWM Great Wall Holden Haval HSV Honda Hyundai Hummer Isuzu Infiniti Jeep Jaguar Lamborghini Kia LDV Land Rover Lotus Lexus Maserati Mahindra McLaren Mazda Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-AMG Mini MG Nissan Mitsubishi Peugeot Opel Proton Porsche Renault Ram Rover Rolls-Royce Skoda Saab SsangYong Smart Suzuki Subaru Toyota Tesla Volvo Volkswagen Previous modelWhen the Laguna was originally launched in 2002, Renault had high hopes for the stylish mid-size newcomer with a five-star EuroNCAP crash rating. Two models were available – the Authentique and luxury Privilege – in either five-door hatch or stylish wagon. A third specification, the Privilege LX got full leather, sunroof, rear spoiler and low-profile tyres. Australia received one engine spec initially – the crisp 3.0-litre 24-valve V6, which developed 152kW/285Nm. A 99kW/191Nm 2.0-litre four was added in October 2002, in part to offer a lower entry price at $39,990. It all sounded promising and the car drove well. However, the Laguna could not compete against the equivalent Japanese rivals and sales reflected this. It its first year – from March to December 2006 – 641 Lagunas were sold and all up just over 1500 were sold until it was quietly withdrawn in January. |
Super TestClick to share
|
Facebook Twitter Instagram