First look: Renault shows slick new Laguna coupe

FOLLOWING the plastering of images across the internet over the past week, Renault has produced full official details of its Laguna Coupe on the eve of the Frankfurt motor show.

Described as a concept, the coupe is the first derivative from the all-new Laguna sedan platform, the latter also making its debut at Frankfurt in full production trim ahead of an Australian arrival mid-2008.

Interesting features on the coupe include the first application of Renault’s new “Active Drive” chassis (with four-wheel steering) and a “brand-new” 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel engine developed in conjunction with alliance partner Nissan.

According to Renault, the V6 dCi produces between 170kW and 195kW and maximum torque of 450Nm-550Nm, depending on the version. It drives through a six-speed automatic transmission.

The coupe’s design cues draw from the 2004 Fluence concept car, with the 4685mm length used to maximum effect with a long nose and short rear overhang.

Note also the inclusion of frameless doors and 20-inch aluminium wheels with 245/35-section Michelin Pilot Sport rubber.

Renault will also unveil an all-new version of its Kangoo micro van/MPV, which is longer (at 4213mm) and more luxurious than the previous model, as well as a Kangoo concept car that “sets the tone for the new, wider Kangoo line-up”.

The Kangoo Compact Concept, as it is known, is an urban runabout developed in partnership with Rollerblade and designed to appeal to young people. Both Kangoo models feature a 78kW/240Nm 1.5-litre dCi 105 engine.