SUV in 2013 Low-Cost Renault-Nissan Plans to produce

Bloomberg newspaper said Renault and Nissan SUV will be co-developement low cost within 3 years or to sell in 2013.

SUVs at low prices will reduce the suppliers and reduce costs by 30% of conventional SUV

I think it will be to develop low cost V-same platform as Nissan March / Micra K13 and bring down prices below A-Juke SUV Nissan SUV segment.

Renault Ondelios Concept

Renault Ondelios Concept was first introduced at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, Ondelios was inspired by the world of aviation. According to Renault’s Design Director, Renault Ondelios is inspired by motion rather than speed. This luxury hybrid concept is equipped with glazed polycarbonate roof, a pair of gull wing doors that open vertically and futuristic interior.

This Concept car is powered by a 205 HP (150kW) of the 2.0 dCi engine that produce 450Nm of torque. This cool car is using two 20kW electric motors at the front and rear for a brake and boost system that can save more fuels.

Renault Ondelios interior has three rows of (individual) seats that accommodate up to six passengers. Each seat is equipped with an interactive portable multimedia device which can be used for sharing data or multiplayer gaming. The headrest also has speakers plus multi zone HVAC system for each passenger.

Renault Ondelios Specifications :

Introduced at : 2008 Paris Motor Show

Dimensions :

Length ; Width ; Height : 4,805 [mm] ; 1,998 [mm] ; 1,605 [mm]

Height with doors open : 2,230 [mm]

Engine :

Internal combustion engine : 2.0 dCi

Power : 205 HP ; 150 kW

Maximum torque (Nm) : 450, from 1,700 to 3,800rpm

Motors : Two 20kW electric motors

Motor Location : one at the front and one at the rear

Power supply : 4kWh lithium-ion battery. Size: 40dm3. Weight: 50kg

Acceleration from 0 to 62mph : 7.8

CO2 emissions : 120g/km

combined cycle fuel consumption : 4.5 litres/100 km

Transmission : Double-clutch seven-speed automatic transmission, Internal combustion engine drive and electric motor drive

Wheel :

Wheel base : 2,895 mm

Front track : 1,690 mm

Rear track : 1,720 mm

Unladen weight : 1,452 kg

Boot (dm3) : 530

Tires : 255/45 ZR23

Wheels Diameter ; Width : 23" ; 9"

Partners: G Studio (Bodywork), Michelin (Tires), Samsung (Telephone for communication with vehicle)

Renault's ZEs... driven by Autocar, confirmed for production

Renault will be the first major car manufacturer in the world to offer a range of zero-emissions all-electric vehicles for sale when the Twizy and Zoe go into production in 2011.

The French manufacturer is taking quite a risk given that this will leave many countries with only a short space of time in which to set up a reasonable electric charging infrastructure, though according to Autocar magazine who feature the three Renault ZE concepts this week, Israel and Denmark have both made commitments to importing 100,000 electric Fluence models by 2012. Renault will be establishing a network of "Quickdrop" centres (areas where ZE customers can take their car to have the entire battery unit changed for a fully-charged on in around three minutes) in these countries.

The Twizy

The Twizy microcar is the smallest of Renault's ZE (Zero-Emissions) concepts and has been confirmed for production in Spain in 2011. The car/scooter is a tandem two seater and is designed solely for city driving, with performance similar to that of a 125cc scooter (topping out at around 50mph). Range is short at roughly 60 miles, but realistically you don't need any more than that in a city commute and even in a city like London you should be able to get at least a couple of days' commuting out of it. As you can see in Autocar's video above, the Twizy is apparently quite fun to drive.

The Zoe

The Zoe is supermini-sized (only slightly larger than a Clio) though unlike the Twizy and the larger Fluence, the styling might well change significantly for production. Renault say the Zoe is more representative of what can be done in terms of size. Range is around 100 miles and the motor makes the equivalent of 95bhp giving a 90mph top speed.

The Fluence

Looking more production-ready than either the Twizy or the Zoe is the Fluence. Styling-wise it shares hints of Renault's 2005 Fluence concept as well as a hint of Tesla Model S. However, it's likely to look much more similar to the production petrol and diesel Fluence that appears to be replacing the old Megane saloon. The concept has the same powertrain as the Zoe and shares similar performance and range.

Renault are clearly taking a large risk putting four EVs on sale at the same time (the fourth is an EV version of the current Kangoo van) but this may well be the kick other manufacturers (and indeed customers) need to embrace electric car technology. We await 2011-12 eagerly to see if customers are ready to take the plunge...

Past, present and future in advert form

If you've been watching prime-time TV recently you might well have noticed two particular car adverts that stand out from the usual dross (VW and Honda adverts excepted, as they're usually excellent). These adverts come from Renault and BMW, and both run along a similar theme - that cars are more than simply just transport - they're objects that have changed our lives for the better and continue to do so.

How do you do that without sounding too cheesy? Get respected actors Patrick Stewart and Ewan McGregor (for BMW and Renault respectively) to do the voiceovers, give them an uplifting soundtrack ("Somewhere only we know" by Keane in Renault's case) and place as much emphasis on your past cars as you do on the ones you want to sell today.

Car adverts are an awkward business. Volkswagen usually seem to manage, with German and now international firm Doyle Dane Bernbach having handled most of their advertising since the original Beetle ads in the 1950s. Some of Honda's adverts in the past decade have been excellent - Cog and Choir stand out in particular, and Impossible Dream, which was possibly of some inspiration to Renault and BMW with their recent efforts.

The approach taken by Renault and BMW is refreshing. Of course, it might not be to all tastes, but both adverts seem to take a step back from the self-indulgent and glitzy unreality of normal car adverts and make both companies seem that little bit more down-to-earth.

Tarmac's Top Ten 'Till 'Ten

Okay, so we're a little late on the bandwagon, but Tarmac has finally compiled it's list of the top ten cars of the last ten years. From 2000 until the end of 2009 there's been a seismic shift in the kind of cars available to the market, and about the attitudes towards the car that have influenced the characteristics people look for.

Although Tarmac is by and large influenced by smaller and more efficient cars, the list reflects a diverse selection of cars that have all made a big impact on the automotive world over the last ten years. So, in no particular order...

MINI Cooper

The BMW Mini came in for some flak when it was released, much of it from original Mini owners who disliked BMW's cavalier use of "their" brand. The press loved it however. The Cooper version was arguably the best of the bunch (and Evo magazine would agree) because it offered fun in the spirit of the original Mini in a reliable and useable package. They're finally coming down in value on the second hand market now too, so there's never been a better time to buy.

Porsche Cayman

Porsche has done the unthinkable - they've accidentally built a car that, were it not for the (deliberate) deficit in power, completely eclipses their stalwart 911 in all areas. Car journalists barely have a bad word to say about it save for a slightly high price, and it seems to successfully win handling tests the world over. And being a Porsche, it's utterly useable day to day.

smart Roadster

The "My First Porsche"? There's certainly more than a hint of Stuttgart in the sound (and location) of the engine, an 800cc triple mounted inches behind your lower back. The styling is fantastic and it pulls the usual smart trick of a great driving position and loads of space. Unless you happen to be luggage, in which case you'd better be small. Even with the suspect gearbox it's a bundle of fun and 50mpg is there for the taking.

Jaguar XF

The car to prove that Jaguar a) still has "it" and b) still has a future. Thankfully the latter has been secured by Ratan Tata's purchase of the company, but the former is assured in the way that the XF went straight to the top of the class with great styling, supreme comfort and cutting edge technology. A welcome return to form.

Tesla Roadster

Hugely important, the Tesla. A fledgeling company (albeit one with strong financial backing) arrives in the market and immediately creates an electric car exponentially better than any other that's come before. Performance is seriously impressive and it even has a great range. The next few years will see the Model S, a pretty saloon that'll no doubt re-write the electric car rulebook once again.

Audi A2

Arriving right at the start of the millennium, the A2 was apparently ten years too early. A lighweight aluminium body, ultra-efficient engines and cutting-edge styling all went unnoticed when people saw the price, which starting at £12.5k was just too much for a B-segment car competing against Ford Fiestas. Best model was the later 90bhp 1.4 TDI that managed an average of 64mpg and 60mph in ten seconds.

Ferrari 360CS

Unlike the A2 the CS isn't the most fuel efficient car around, but it wins it's top ten slot for being the ultimate expression of one of the ultimate marques. The normal 360 was wonderful but the Challenge Stradale is like the standard model fuelled after a night of Vodka and Red Bull. Louder, meaner, more aggressive and ready to take on the world. There's never been a better car on which to paint go-faster stripes.

Lotus Elise S

Impressive though the Tesla is, the basic Elise proves that you don't need an electric drivetrain to make a sports car efficient. With 1.8 litres of Toyota power, sixty arrives in under six seconds and you're still offered an average of 37mpg when you aren't using all the revs. And being a Toyota engine, there's a strange sense of calm that models with the Rover K-Series never offered. Sublime handling? That's been there all along.

Renaultsport Clio 200 Cup

Renault have probably averaged one hot Clio each year for the past ten, but the latest is definitely the greatest. Sure, the new front end is questionable (Tarmac loves it though), but the giant killing ability certainly isn't. The 200 Cup is a true emperor in a long dynasty of Clios - 16V, Williams, 172, 172 Trophy, 182, 182 Cup, 197,197 Cup, 200...

Volkswagen Scirocco

Who'd have thought it? Trustworthy - if slightly staid - Volkwagen, bringing out one of the most attractive designs of the last decade? Yet that's what they've done with the Scirocco, and yet being based on the old faithful Golf you still get all the comfort and quality you'd expect. It's a car that makes you question the need for a 3-door Golf with style and handling like the Scirocco offers.

Here's to the next ten years...

Smart saved with Renault partnership

A recently announced deal between Daimler, and Renault-Nissan will see the next generation of Smarts sharing platforms with the French marque. The alliance also sees each company taking three percent of the other's shares.

This news is good for Smart, as the company has long been struggling to turn a profit and the deal guarantees its future. A short wheelbase platform being developed by the new pairing will underpin the next generation Smart, as well as the Renault Twizy and a new Nissan small car to take on Toyota's iQ. A longer wheelbase will also be used, which could provide a replacement for the short-lived Smart ForFour.

The move also increases the chance of a full production electric Smart, given that the Twizy is currently an electric-only concept.

Source: AutoExpress
Image: Tarmac

Renault Ondelios Concept

Renault Ondelios Concept was first introduced at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, Ondelios was inspired by the world of aviation. According to Renault’s Design Director, Renault Ondelios is inspired by motion rather than speed. This luxury hybrid concept is equipped with glazed polycarbonate roof, a pair of gull wing doors that open vertically and futuristic interior.

This Concept car is powered by a 205 HP (150kW) of the 2.0 dCi engine that produce 450Nm of torque. This cool car is using two 20kW electric motors at the front and rear for a brake and boost system that can save more fuels.

Renault Ondelios interior has three rows of (individual) seats that accommodate up to six passengers. Each seat is equipped with an interactive portable multimedia device which can be used for sharing data or multiplayer gaming. The headrest also has speakers plus multi zone HVAC system for each passenger.

Renault Ondelios Specifications :

Introduced at : 2008 Paris Motor Show

Dimensions :

Length ; Width ; Height : 4,805 [mm] ; 1,998 [mm] ; 1,605 [mm]

Height with doors open : 2,230 [mm]

Engine :

Internal combustion engine : 2.0 dCi

Power : 205 HP ; 150 kW

Maximum torque (Nm) : 450, from 1,700 to 3,800rpm

Motors : Two 20kW electric motors

Motor Location : one at the front and one at the rear

Power supply : 4kWh lithium-ion battery. Size: 40dm3. Weight: 50kg

Acceleration from 0 to 62mph : 7.8

CO2 emissions : 120g/km

combined cycle fuel consumption : 4.5 litres/100 km

Transmission : Double-clutch seven-speed automatic transmission, Internal combustion engine drive and electric motor drive

Wheel :

Wheel base : 2,895 mm

Front track : 1,690 mm

Rear track : 1,720 mm

Unladen weight : 1,452 kg

Boot (dm3) : 530

Tires : 255/45 ZR23

Wheels Diameter ; Width : 23" ; 9"

Partners: G Studio (Bodywork), Michelin (Tires), Samsung (Telephone for communication with vehicle)

Renault Electric Sports Car DeZir Concept

Renault Electric Sports Car DeZir Concept

The Renault DeZir project is the first to have been led by Laurens van den Acker and marks the start of a sequence of concept cars that will provide an insight into Renault Design's new vision for the future. DeZir stands out as an illustration of the brand's commitment to more emotional styling.

The DeZir is a two-seater coupé that Renault says stands out as an illustration of the company’s commitment to more emotional styling. With its sports car looks and ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in five seconds, or 0 to 50 km/h in just two seconds, it’s hard to disagree.

Although the DeZir is purely a concept car at this point, Renault is strongly hinting that it shows not only the direction they plan on heading with sports cars in the future, but that it is indicative of a new overarching design and styling philosophy across the entire Renault brand.

The 'Z' in the name Renault DeZir is a direct reference to Renault's Z.E. signature, and several features of its design are suggestive of two qualities readily associated with electric mobility, namely advanced technology and light weight.

DeZir is powered by an electric motor mounted in a mid-rear position to optimize weight distribution over the front and rear wheels. The vertically-mounted 24kW/h lithium-ion battery is located behind the benchseat and provides the car with a range of 160km.

Battery cooling is ensured not only by the air channelled from the front to the back of the car, but also – and above all – by the flow of air that enters through the lateral scoops concealed behind the aluminium panels on either side of the body.

Employing the same principles as the KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) seen in Formula 1, when the car decelerates, kinetic energy is recovered and stored in the battery. This energy can then be employed by the driver to provide a temporary power boost using a button located on the steering wheel. The car can be charged in 8 hours at 240-v, can get to 80% charge in 20 minutes at 4o0-v (3-phase) and will accept battery swapping made possible by the Better Place alliance.

The basic motor is the same as the unit used for Renault's production electric cars, although an evolution has enabled its power and torque to be uprated to 110kW (150ch) and 226Nm respectively. Through the extensive use of lightweight materials such as the Kevlar body, the DeZir tips the scales at just 830kg or 1,830 pounds. According to the French carmaker, the DeZir can go from zero to 100km/h (62mph) in 5 seconds and reach a top speed of 180km/h or 112mph.

The DeZir will debut in October at this year's Paris Motor Show, but no date has been set for its full release. According to Fast Company, by the end of 2013 the Renault-Nissan alliance hopes to produce 500,000 electric vehicles globally, including the 2011 Fluence ZE and the 2011 Kangoo ZE electric van.

2011 New Renault Cars Latitude Family Saloon

Through much of the last decade, Renault's product lineup lived up to the long-standing French reputation for peculiar design. This was particularly true of its flagship model, the bizarre looking five-door hatchback Vel Satis. That unsuccessful model is now set to be replaced by a much more conventional looking four-door sedan dubbed the Latitude. The Latitude is built on a stretched version of the mid-sized Laguna platform and shares its powertrain options, including the new 3.0-liter diesel V6.

The Latitude is based on the Renault Group’s 2010 Samsung SM5 sedan — which itself is based on the Renault Laguna — that recently went on sale in South Korea. Renault has today provided the first glimpse of its latest international status-enhancing family saloon, Renault Latitude. The Renault Latitude will replace the discontinued and controversial Vel Satis hatchback. Tailored to meet the demand of its different markets, Renault Latitude's specification will deliver the car's different customers a truly high-end package that will position it as the spearhead of international Renault's saloon car range. It will be shown at the forthcoming Moscow Motor Show, Russia, and is due to go on sale this autumn in Asia, Africa, Russia, Turkey, Gulf, Australia and Mexico.

European version of Renault Latitude will be one of the principal new attractions of the 2010 Paris Motor Show where visitors will get a chance to examine its interior design, while full details of the model’s equipment lists and engines ranges will also be released. The international media will be invited to road test Renault Latitude before the end of 2010, and sales will begin shortly afterwards. The contours of the grille are flanked by distinctive bi-Xenon adaptive directional headlights, while chrome embellishments contribute to the unmistakable impression of dynamism and status exuded by the car's overall lines. Its rear-end forms point to ample boot space, and the new car can effectively claim one of the biggest boots in its class. The rear lighting signature employs LED technology and harmonizes perfectly with the chrome rear strip which carries the new model's name: Renault Latitude.

Based on the same architecture as New SM5, which was recently launched in the Korean market, Renault Latitude profits extensively from Renault's engineering expertise. Occupants benefit from a comfortable, silent ride, as well as a particularly precise chassis and a choice of powerplants that are sure to give it a decisive edge over its rivals. The complete equipment list, which will be revealed at a later date, places the emphasis on innovation and travelling comfort, including a dual-mode air ionizer with double fragrance diffuser, triple-zone climate control, a massaging driver's seat, Bose Premium audio, the Renault hands-free card, etc.

2010 Renault Modus Evian Masters Limited Edition - Renault Cars

Renault has release a new limited edition version of Modus which features the event celebrated colours, Renault Modus Evian Masters Tournaments 17th Edition. The new limited edition Modus is recognizable by its pink and white Evian Masters badging on the front wings, tailgate and logos of the Evian Masters on the front side and the trunk, as well as darkened mirrors and alloy rims.

2010 Renault Modus Evian Masters

This new limited edition version is based on the Dynamique equipment level of Modus, but comes with a number of exclusive appointments: a panoramic electric sunroof, automatic climate control, a 4x20W radio-CD with MP3 playback and steering wheel-mounted fingertip remote control, and a City Pack comprising electrically-folding exterior mirrors and a rear parking proximity sensor which, combined with the car's compact size, take the stress out of parking in built-up areas.

The limited edition Modus Evian Masters can be ordered with one of two high-end engines from the Modus range:

• the TCe 100, a feisty and flexible 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol powerplant which delivers responsive performance in all situations,

• and the diesel dCi 85 which, with CO2 emissions of just 114g/km, offers a remarkable trade-off between performance and fuel economy. It qualifies for the €500 'eco-bonus' subsidy system which operates in France.

For more than 10 years, Renault has been the official partner of the Evian Masters, the 2010 edition of which will take place on July 22-25.

As official supplier to the event, Renault will provide a fleet of 90 vehicles for use by the tournament's organisers, while the 10 former Evian Masters winners attending the event will be loaned a Modus Evian Masters for their transport needs for the duration of the competition. Renault will also have a Modus Evian Masters on display at the Hole in One, as well as a stand in the Partners' Village.

Only 500 Renault Grand Modus Evian Masters will be produced, with sales beginning on June 5, 2010 (French market only). Order books have already opened, however, and prices start from €17,150 (Renault Modus Evian Masters TCe 100). Renault Modus limited edition Evian Masters: panoramic electric roof.

The Renault Modus interior ambience is further enhanced by the split leather trimmed steering wheel and gear level knob, as well by the satin-finish chrome center console and air vent surrounds. Based on the Dynamique equipment level of Renault Modus, the limited edition Modus Evian Masters has a distinctly high-end feel to its appointments. It packs the following equipment :

- Panoramic electric sunroof

- Elliptical headlamps with dedicated cornering lights

- Foglamps

- Automatic climate control with chilled glovebox

- Automatic headlamp and windscreen-wiper activation

- 80W radio-CD MP3 with six loudspeakers (including two tweeters), steering wheel-mounted fingertip remote control and separate display

- Electric rear windows with driver-controlled deactivation for children

- City Pack (electrically folding exterior mirrors + rear parking proximity sensor)

Prices to the limited edition Renault Modus Evian Masters start from 17,150 Euro and represent a benefit in kind customers of 3.9 per cent. Only 500 cars will be produced. They will be available exclusive in France from June, although order books are already open.

2011 New Renault Sports Cars Megane GT/GT Line

Renault Sports Cars Technologies has helped create two new sporting versions of Renault’s New Mégane – GT and GT Line. 2011 New Renault Mégane GT and GT Line, unveiled at the Geneva Motorshow in March, are available across of the body types that make up the Mégane family (Hatchback, Coupé, Estate, Coupé-Cabriolet) and go on sale in June.

2011 Renault Megane GT/GT Line

Meanwhile, the success enjoyed by New Mégane R.S. – which has already achieved number one status in France, and which holds third place in Germany and Spain – points to a healthy market for Mégane's sporting versions. Building on the reputation and success of its existing performance models, Renault now provides a sporting option for all the body types  that make up the Mégane family.

New Renault Mégane GT and GT Line demonstrate that motoring enjoyment can be affordable, and also serve as eloquent illustrations of Renault's new brand signature, 'Drive the Change' New Renault Mégane GT and GT Line are manufactured in the same factories as those that produce the core-range versions: Palencia (Mégane Hatchback, Coupé and Estate GT and GT Line), and Douai (Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet GT and GT Line).

These new versions bring distinctive styling and genuine driving emotions within reach of as many motorists as possible and also bridge the gap between mainstream Mégane and the allout performance credentials of Mégane R.S. GT Line is a Sport Pack which is available as an option on Mégane Dynamique equipment level versions. They feature a specific chassis and are powered by the Mégane’s core-range of economical and ecological engines. New Renault Mégane GT and GT Line stand out by their sporty styling cues both inside and out. Their sporty character is further accentuated by the Malta Blue body colour (which is exclusive to these versions) and by the Dark Metal (anthracite grey) or polished carbon finish of certain details.

New Renault Mégane Hatchback and Estate GT Line and GT inherit the same 'Sport' chassis as Mégane Coupé. As is the case with Mégane Coupé, the ride height has been lowered by 12mm. The GT Line and GT versions of new Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet place the accent more on comfort and feature the same ride height as the standard model. Further exclusive touches include the polished carbon interior door pull handles, outer air-vents and dashboard trim.

Even more exclusive are the new Renault Mégane GT versions which come with 'GT' badging on the grille and 'GT Renault Sports Cars' badging on the tailgate. They sit on 18-inch Dark Metal-coloured Jetow aluminium wheels. Inside, 'GT' badging figures on the dashboard trim strip and front head rests, along with 'Renault Sport'2 branding on the door sills. Drivers will also appreciate the thick-rimmed leather-trimmed steering wheel incorporating thumb rests that was developed for Renault Mégane RS.

The engines available for new Renault Mégane GT and GT Line have been selected to meet customer demand and match the performance characteristics of each version. New Renault Mégane GT Line are available with the same engines as the mainstream Renault Mégane range and deliver a combination of driving comfort and impressive fuel consumption. GT versions are powered by the Renault Mégane range's more potent, more exclusive powerplants for even greater performance. The more exclusive Renault Mégane GT is available with either of the Mégane range's two most powerful turbocharged engines: the petrol TCe 180 or the diesel dCi 160.

The TCe 180 Euro5 (132kW) is a new evolution of the turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine and delivers outstanding driving enjoyment. With peak torque of 300Nm at 2,250rpm, it is extremely responsive and provides exceptional pick-up from low revs thanks to its twin-scroll turbo and continuously variable camshaft angle at the intake port which optimizes airflow into the combustion chambers and enables the turbine to spin up to speed more quickly. The turbo responds to the slightest touch of the accelerator from as low as 1,200rpm. This engine drives through a six-speed manual gearbox.

The dCi 160 Euro5 (118kW) is derived from the Alliance's 2.0-litre diesel turbo engine and is acclaimed as one of the most efficient of its class. With peak torque of 380Nm available from as low as 2,000rpm, this engine climbs smoothly and swiftly up the revs to 5,000rpm. Its 1,600-bar fuel injection rail, piezoelectric injectors, the advanced form of its pistons and its variable geometry turbo all contribute to making this four-cylinder diesel engine one of the most efficient in its class. The two balancer shafts efficiently filter out vibrations and contribute to an exceptionally quiet ride for even greater driving pleasure and comfort. The dCi 160 Euro5 engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.

2010 Renault Laguna Sports Car Coupe Monaco GP Limited Edition

Following its unveiling at last month's 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the new Monaco GP limited edition version of Renault Laguna Sports Car Coupé is due to hit the French market this month when it goes on display at the Coupé-Cabriolet & SUV Motor Show in Paris. The newcomer's fluid, elegant lines are emphasized by its stunning, sporty styling which features a black roof, black exterior mirror housings and 'black shadow' wheels which contrast with the Sports Car's striking pearlescent white finish.

2010 Renault Laguna Sports Car Coupe Monaco GP

Renault Laguna Sports Car Coupé Monaco GP's performance credentials match its looks, too, thanks to its exclusive 4Control chassis with four-wheel steering which is standard equipment, as well as a range of particularly efficient powerplants. Its equipment specification places the accent on motoring enjoyment and travelling comfort with an exciting package of hi-tech, safety and comfort refinements. Designed and manufactured in France, Renault Laguna Coupé Monaco GP ranks among the best Sports Cars in its class for quality and stands out as a flagship for Renault's highend range. Two years after the first public appearance of Laguna Sports Car Coupé round Monaco's legendary race track, this limited edition version – the run of which is restricted to just 400 units – celebrates the long-standing partnership that exists between the brand and the Automobile Club de Monaco.

Available with a choice of four DPF-equipped diesel powertrains (dCi 150 with either sixspeed manual or automatic transmission, dCi 180 with six-speed manual gearbox or 3.0 V6 dCi 235 with six-speed automatic transmission) and one petrol engine (3.5 V6 240 with six-speed automatic transmission). Its 4Control chassis with four-wheel steering delivers exclusive driving pleasure, plus outstanding handling and active safety performance.

Renault Laguna Sports Car Coupé, which has emerged as the uncontested leader in its class in France thanks to the unfettered motoring enjoyment it delivers, celebrates the second anniversary of its first public appearance round Monaco's famous Grand Prix circuit in May 2008 with the release of an exclusive Monaco GP limited edition version. In addition to the elegant, uncluttered lines of this high-end Sports Car coupé's exterior, Laguna Sports Car Coupé's performance package also ensures unprecedented yet reassuring driving thrills.

Laguna Sports Car Coupé Monaco GP in association with a wide choice of engines. This groundbreaking innovation attracts customers who seek to benefit from the advantages of four-wheel steering. The nimble handling provided by the 4Control chassis both in built-up areas and on twisty roads out of town is worthy of that of a small city car (it has the same turning circle as a Clio). At the same time, the system guarantees exceptional stability, plus the road holding ability of a sporting car, not to mention unrivalled safety, e.g. when taking avoiding action or when braking in difficult conditions (asymmetric grip on slippery surfaces, optimized ESC calibration).

All the available diesel engines are equipped with a particulate filter and comply with Euro5 legislation. They are available with a manual gearbox or automatic transmission to combine driving enjoyment with efficient and responsive sports cars performance:

- The affordable and economical dCi 150 (110kW) is acclaimed for its dynamic performance. Mated to the six-speed manual gearbox, it returns appreciably low combined cycle fuel consumption of just 5.7 litres/100km (equivalent to CO2 emissions of 149g/km). Versions with six-speed automatic transmission combine punch and response, yet remain very affordable.

- The sportier, more powerful and torquier dCi 180 (131kW) powerplant stands out as a surprisingly attractive compromise for its class. With 400Nm of torque available from as low as 2,000rpm, it accelerates crisply and smoothly, and contributes to the impeccable directional stability of the 4Control chassis. Even so, its combined cycle fuel consumption remains contained at 6.2 litres/100km (163g of CO2/km).

- The top end of the range naturally features the 3.0 V6 dCi 235 which drives through a six-speed automatic transmission. This three-litre block (2,993cc) stands out as a benchmark in terms of its dynamic performance, driving pleasure and silent ride. Peak power is 235hp (173kW), while maximum torque stands at 450Nm. Thanks to these vital statistics, Renault Laguna Sports Car Coupé V6 dCi 235 accelerates from standstill to 100kph in 7.3 seconds, yet its combined cycle fuel consumption does not exceed 7.2 litres/100km (189g of CO2/km). Special attention has been paid, too, to its acoustic performance: in addition to its silence at normal speeds, a perceptible bark when accelerating and during transient phases irresistibly suggests performance.

The 240-horsepower (175kW) 3.5 V6 petrol engine delivers maximum torque of 330Nm at 4,400rpm. It drives through the same six-speed automatic transmission as the V6 diesel and covers the 1,000-metre standing start in 27.6 seconds. Although an ideal match for Renault Laguna Sports Car Coupé's dynamic credentials, its combined cycle fuel consumption is just 9.9 litres/100km (230g of CO2/km).

Renault Laguna Sports Car Coupé Monaco GP will be available at Renault dealers in June, with prices starting from €38,800. Order books open early-Mai. Ordering for the latest addition to the Laguna Coupé range is open now, ahead of deliveries in July. Production for the white hot limited edition ends in September.