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.
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Renault Laguna range
Released: March 2002
Ended: January 2006
Family Tree: LagunaWhen 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year – from March to December 2006 – 641 Lagunas were sold and all up just over 1500 were sold until it was quietly withdrawn in January.
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