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| Renault launch new entry-level Twingo Extreme |
Renault's heritage in producing funky, stylish and practical small cars is evident in its Clio and Modus models, a line-up that was significantly enhanced with the introduction of New Twingo, which debuted last year for the first time in right-hand drive in the UK.
Demand for New Twingo has increased considerably since its launch, with the Dynamique and GT trims - the versions available in the UK - proving especially popular throughout Europe. Now, Renault's small car success is set to grow even further with the launch of a new entry-level Twingo Extreme 1.2 60, priced at £7,500 and beats some of its closest competitors on value, coming in at £400 less than the entry-level Fiat 500.
Extreme captures Twingo spirit
The Twingo Extreme still retains the sporty and stylish good looks featured on the Dynamique trim, plus all the practicality and interior space for four occupants and their belongings to travel in comfort, as well as a list of standard equipment befitting a more expensive car - all at a value-for-money price.
Peace of mind is also assured with safety and technological innovations featuring just as strongly in the entry-level Extreme as they do in the range-topping GT. Features such as ABS with EBD (electronic Brake Distribution), driver and front passenger lateral airbags and brake assist, are all standard on the Extreme.
Music and connectivity is key to the spirit of New Twingo and advances in technology have been incorporated fully into its development with the option of integrated Bluetooth hands-free telephone system as well as a 'TunePoint' (anchorage connection point concealed in the glove box) for MP3 players so you can easily transfer your music from your pocket to your Twingo.
'Extreme-ly' impressive standard equipment
Twingo Extreme still beats many key rivals such as the Citroen C2 in terms of its impressive list of standard equipment.
As well as the core features available on all versions such as remote central-locking with dead-locking and anti-drill door locks and insurance-approved engine immobiliser, Twingo Extreme also has the following standard equipment:
Sports body styling, black internally adjustable door mirrors, fixed on-piece folding rear seat, 2 X 15W RDS radio CD with fingertip control, front fog lights, electric front windows, rev counter and 14" 'Fidji' wheel trims.
Options include the opportunity to put your own individual stamp on your Twingo, with a wide range of personalisation exterior decals available. This includes a chance for customers to show off their patriotism with decals such as Union Jack door handle graphics (£45) and wing badges (£15), or Cross of St. George wing badges (£15). Customers can also enhance the sporty look of their Twingo Extreme with white or black racing stripes (£80) or chequered flag door graphics (£80).
Twingo = eco²
Renault's 'eco²' initiative focuses on the full lifecycle of its vehicles from design right through to eventual recycling. Each 'eco²' vehicle must meet three strict criteria in terms of manufacturing, emissions (being 140 g/km or lower) and recycling.
New Twingo Extreme is an eco² vehicle and beneath its sporty exterior lurks a breath of fresh air for the environment with a frugal, economical and ecological engine in the 1.2 60.
It offers an impressive fuel economy with a combined consumption of 50.4 mpg and low emissions of just 132 g/km.
Twingo Extreme on sale now
New Twingo Extreme is on sale now with the 1.2 60 petrol engine, priced at £7,500.
The insurance group for Twingo Extreme is yet to be announced, but is expected to be competitive. |
| New Renault Laguna launches across UK |
- New Laguna Hatch launches in UK showrooms today, 19th October 2007
- Ordering for top-of-the-range Hatch Initiale and all Sport Tourer models also now open. Sport Tourer models due to appear in showrooms from January 2008
- New Laguna 2.0 dCi 150 Dynamique achieves impressive residual value forecast of 32.1% over 3 years/60,000 miles - an increase of 7.2% over previous Laguna. Also, 1% above comparable new Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec
- Insurance group ratings improved by up to two group ratings for certain models compared to previous Laguna, from 7E to 11E
- New television ad campaign goes 'live', 'New Renault Laguna: You can never be too demanding' focusing on four key themes: comfort, driving pleasure, quality and safety
The new Renault Laguna is off to a promising start, having received widespread acclaim for its impressive refinement, well-appointed interior and overall feeling of quality. Launched across UK dealers from today, the French marque's upper-medium contender now looks set to take the challenge to its rivals with an equally impressive residual value forecast, up by 7.2% on its predecessor.
High residual value forecasts and low running costs
With keen pricing and a standard 3 year/100,000 mile warranty (including the first two years of unlimited mileage), New Laguna already has one of the most compelling set of total cost of ownership figures in its class, so such an impressive residual value forecast will be even sweeter news, for both private and fleet buyers alike.
The likely New Laguna best-seller, Hatch Dynamique 2.0 dCi 150 is expected to retain 32.1% over 3 years/60,000 miles*. This represents an impressive 1% gain over the new Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec at 31.1% and an impressive 4% above the Peugeot 407 2.0 HDi SE 136 at 28.1%.
For lower mileage drivers, the costs stack up even more in favour of the new Renault flagship. Over 36 months/36,000 miles, the same New Laguna retains 37.2% of its value, against just 36% for the equivalent Mondeo, 1.2% above its key Ford rival.
Low insurance groups - up to two insurance groups lower than Laguna II
Rounding off the low costs of ownership for New Laguna are its low insurance groups, which have recently been re-rated to make the new range even more attractive.
For both Hatch and Sport Tourer models, they now range from 7E for all 1.5 dCi 110 models up to just 11E for the most potent and luxurious Initiale 2.0 16V 170 Turbo Auto.
In spite of the overall gains in quality and specification, the Hatch models are an average of £300 less than their predecessors. For example, the likely best-seller, Hatch Dynamique 2.0 dCi 150, costs £18,400, £470 less than the current model. |
| Four stars in Euroncap for new Twingo |
New Twingo has scored four stars and 28(*) points out of 37 in the passive safety tests conducted by the independent organisation EuroNCAP.
Alongside this excellent, officially recognised level of passive safety, New Twingo also delivers reassuring handling and class-leading road manners with sure-footed, reliable performance.
Like all the vehicles in the Renault range, New Twingo features technologies that have proved their efficiency in real driving situations.
The restraint system comprises pretensioners with load limiters, an anti-submarining bar at the front, rear seats with profiled cushions to avoid submarining (when the pelvis slips under the lower seat belt) and a new generation-airbag for the front passenger seat. This restraint system prevents submarining and thus avoids serious injuries to the chest, stomach and legs.
In the event of impact, three systems are activated in succession in less than ten-thousandths of a second. The pretensioners keeps passengers in their seats, while the load limiters reduce the pressure of the seat belt on the occupant's chest to avoid injury, and the airbags deploy to cushion the impact.
New Twingo has up to six airbags: two at the front and two lateral airbags as standard, and optional curtain airbags. The front passenger seat features a so-called "3D" airbag, a first for Renault. The shape and volume of this airbag optimises the distribution of force between the passengers head and chest in the event of impact.
New Twingo also demonstrates Renault's expertise in child safety. It is equipped as standard with Isofix anchorage points on the front passenger seat, making it easy to install a rear-facing child seat, as well as on both independent rear seats.
Twingo's structure features energy-absorbing crumple zones to safeguard the cabin and protect all the occupants of the vehicle. In the event of frontal impact, the sill and door beam of New Twingo spread the force over the entire length of the car to absorb and dissipate the kinetic energy. |
| Renault announces 2007 Megane E85 launch |
Renault UK will launch its first bioethanol car into the UK market when the Mégane Hatch E85 goes on sale at the end of 2007.
This will be Renault's first bioethanol vehicle to be sold in the UK and is in line with eCO2, the company's commitment to producing environmentally-friendly vehicles for the whole life cycle of the vehicle, from design to their eventual recycling. With eCO2, Renault provides customers with a choice of vehicles across its range, both kind to the environment and motorists' pockets, including the new Mégane E85.
The new Mégane E85 uses the 1.6 16V 105 engine. The existing 1.6 16V petrol engine has undergone a number of modifications so that it adapts automatically to bioethanol fuel. The main upgrades have been made to the fuel tank, injection system and combustion chambers. The new vehicles were developed with input from expertise developed in Brazil, where Renault has been selling FlexFuel versions of Clio and Mégane running on bioethanol E100 since 2004.
The benefits of E85 fuel are widespread and are particularly relevant for the Fleet market. A new tax incentive sees a 2% discount on employees' taxable car benefits where the car is capable of running on E85 fuel, an ethanol fuel based on a mix of at least 85% ethanol with conventional petrol. The introduction of the Mégane E85 will offer fleets an innovative, modern, comfortable, spacious and Euro NCAP five-star safety-rated car perfect for user-choosers and larger fleets.
Renault considers biofuels to be one of the most effective solutions in the long-term quest for control over CO2 emissions. Biofuels are ecologically effective, as a diversified, renewable, plant-based energy source. And they are economically effective because the cost of developing compatible engines is reasonable, and the cars are therefore affordable. Biofuels will also be helping to cut down energy dependency on fossil fuels.
The crops used to produce biofuels absorb CO2 from the atmosphere as they grow (part of the process of photosynthesis). E85 bioethanol can achieve CO2 gains of up to 70% over the so-called well-to-wheel cycle compared to the same model powered by a conventional petrol engine. The figure is about 20% for B30 biodiesel.
Biofuel-compatibility is one of the criteria behind the Renault eCO2 signature. With a Mégane running on bioethanol (E85) alongside other vehicles running on biodiesel, such as B30 powered Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) which are currently being evaluated for the British market and will be tested with some fleet operators, Renault confirms its commitment to this technology, as one of the few carmakers to offer its European customers cars running on both types of biofuel.
Bioethanol is made by distilling fermented vegetable matter, typically in the form of wheat or beet in Europe, sugarcane in Brazil, or maize in the USA. The resulting fuel is then mixed with petrol in varying proportions: 5% for E5, 10% for E10, 85% for E85 and up to 100% for E100.
Prices and full information will be announced when Mégane E85 goes on sale at the end of 2007. |
| Renault announces prices for new Twingo |
- Dynamique 1.2 16V 75 priced at £8,375
- GT 1.2 TCE (Turbo Control Efficiency) 100 priced at £9,995
- Competitive pricing sees Twingo beating some rivals not only in price but also in standard equipment
- Customers can save up to £1,505 with the Twingo GT compared to competitors
- New Twingo arrives in the UK for the first-time in right-hand-drive on 7th September
- Ordering set to open in July
UK drivers will be able to get behind the wheel of New Twingo in right-hand-drive for the first time when it goes on sale on 7th September. And it is certainly worth the wait.
Renault has been a successful major player in the small-car segment for decades with more than 2.4 million Twingos sold worldwide since the model was launched in April 1993. New Twingo is the first vehicle in an extensive range renewal programme under the Renault Commitment 2009 plan.
In the UK, New Twingo will be available in two engines and trims. The popular and sporty Dynamique trim with a 1.2 16V 75 petrol engine is priced at £8,375 and the GT with the new 1.2 TCE 100 engine is £9,995. The new 1.2 TCE 100 engine recently debuted in some Clio and Modus versions and was developed by the Alliance.
The Twingo Dynamique offers a saving of £770 when compared on price to its closest competitor, the Citroen C2 1.4 Design. Twingo also beats the Citroen, Ford KA Zetec, Toyota Aygo 1.0 Black and Peugeot 107 Sport XS in terms of standard equipment with many of its competitors either not offering certain items of equipment at all or only as an option.
Twingo Dynamique is the only one out of those models listed to offer features such as individual sliding rear seats and front fog lights as standard. Front lateral airbags are also standard on Twingo but aren't available at all on the Citroen or the Ford.
Twingo GT offers savings of up to £1,505 when compared to its nearest competitors, the Fiat Panda 100 or Citroen C2 1.6 VTR. It also has the best combined mpg of all listed as well as the lowest emissions which means Twingo GT not only saves you money but is also the environmentally-friendly choice.
Twingo GT also has an impressive list of standard equipment that its competitors can't match. Twingo GT is the only car of those highlighted to offer automatic headlights and windscreen wipers as standard. Safety features such as front lateral airbags are standard on Twingo GT but aren't available on the Fiat or Ford, despite the Twingo being cheaper than both.
Twingo is the way small cars are meant to be, feisty, practical and connected. When it was first launched in 1993 everyone fell in love with its cute, good looks but time has moved on rapidly and Twingo of the 21st Century is a car with the modern buyer and their demands in mind.
Its sporty good looks combine with the largest boot space in its class ensuring there's plenty of room behind the wheel and that there's enough space for four occupants and all their belongings to travel in style. Not only that its frugal economy and low emissions also add to its appeal to today's environmentally conscious market.
You can also, for the first time on any Renault vehicle, personalise your Twingo to reflect your own personality with a range of exterior decals available from launch. The fashion conscious can really express themselves and add their own design flair to the funky style of New Twingo by choosing decals to suit their own tastes whether they are subtle such as silver swirls on the circular door handles or loud and sporty with double white stripes along the roof and bonnet. Prices will range between £15 and £62 plus fitting costs.
The technologically minded can also be assured that New Twingo has benefited from modern innovations such as active and passive safety features including ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) and driver and front passenger lateral airbags, or equipment to ensure comfort such as air conditioning which is standard on the GT.
Music and connectivity is key to the spirit of New Twingo and advances in technology have been fully incorporated into its development with the option of integrated Bluetooth Hands free telephone system as well as a 'TunePoint' (anchorage connection point concealed in the glove box) for MP3 players ensuring you can easily transfer your music from your pocket to your Twingo.
Twingo is assertive and assured, boasting the high levels of interior and exterior quality and equipment that a buyer expects from a modern vehicle.
Renault recently launched its 'eco2' initiative which focuses on the full lifecycle of its vehicles from design right through to eventual recycling. Each eco2 vehicle must meet three strict criteria in terms of manufacturing, emissions (being 140 g/km or lower) and recycling.
New Twingo is an eco2 vehicle and beneath its sporty exterior lurks a breath of fresh air for the environment with a frugal, economical and ecological choice of engines. The 1.2 16V 75 emissions of 135 g/km and a combined mpg of 49.5.
The new 1.2 TCE 100 engine provides the torque of the 1.6 VVT 111 engine, the power of the 1.4 16V and the economy and emissions of the 1.2 16V 75. New Twingo also has the lowest emissions of its class for a 100hp car.
With a combined mpg of 47.8, low emissions of just 140 g/km, a top speed of 117 mph and 145 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, the 1.2 TCE 100 offers frugal fuel economy and a strong performance.
The Dynamique trim is a popular choice with customers and will be offered in New Twingo with the 1.2 16V 75 petrol engine and priced at £8,375.
Standard equipment on New Twingo Dynamique includes brushed aluminium effect instrument surrounds, dark carbon injected dashboard, rev counter, 15" 'Alizar' alloy wheels, sports body styling (foglights, body coloured side mouldings, sports bumpers) and 2 x 15W CD RDS radio.
The New Twingo GT will ensure you stand out from the crowd with its sporty good looks. Priced at £9,995, the New Twingo GT features the 1.2 TCE 100 petrol engine which is not only powerful but ecological too.
Standard equipment in addition to the Dynamique standard features includes leather steering wheel, aluminium effect pedals, air conditioning, 15" 'Noxiane' alloy wheels, electrically adjustable and heated silver door mirrors, rear spoiler, visible exhaust pipe, GT sports suspension and extra tinted glass in rear windows and tailgate.
The Twingo Dynamique will be available in seven colours, two non-metallic - Pacific Blue and Capsicum Red, and five metallic, Pearl Black, Mercury, Tempest, Blaze and Extreme Blue.
The GT will be available in six colours, one non-metallic, Capsicum Red, and five metallic as per the Dynamique version.
On sale 7th September
Ordering for the New Twingo is set to open in July, with the car arriving in UK showrooms on 7th September.
Insurance groups have yet to be announced but are expected to be competitive. |
| Renault launch Limited Edition Clio Renaultsport 197 F1 Team R27 |
The Clio Renaultsport 197 is already being hailed by many as the undisputed small hot hatch class benchmark, but Renault's performance arm has already sought to move the game onto the next level with the launch of the eagerly-anticipated Clio Renaultsport F1 Team R27. This new limited edition is also the first Clio Renaultsport 197 to feature the new Cup Chassis, which will become optional on the standard model later in 2007.
Built at the Renaultsport factory in Dieppe, the new addition to the Clio Renaultsport range is inspired by the back-to-back success of the FIA World Championship winning-Renault F1 Team, and understandably shares part of its name with this year's Grand Prix car, the R27.
Continuing Renault's rich heritage for producing grin-inducing hot hatches, the Clio Renaultsport 197 F1 Team R27 features £1,500 worth of extra kit within its price tag of £17,250. Among the specification improvements are the aforementioned Cup Chassis, plus 17" Anthracite coloured alloy wheels, extra tinted windows, red painted brake callipers, Recaro seats and exclusive Renault F1 Team decals (those on the doors and roof are a no-cost delete option).
Chassis set-up effective in the extreme
In keeping with Renault's tradition for offering a Cup Chassis option on its models for those performance enthusiasts who want an even more focused driving experience, the Cup Chassis fitted as standard on Clio Renaultsport 197 F1 Team R27 and includes a raft of enhancements for both track and road driving.
Among them, the ride height has been lowered by 7mm compared to the Clio Renaultsport 197 to ensure a lower centre of gravity and reduced load transfer for more effective cornering. Its cornering power has been improved even further by the springs which have been stiffened by 27% at the front and 30% at the rear, giving reduced body roll and pitch when cornering. With a 10% increase in bending stiffness and more flexible bump-stops, the double-axis strut suspension system is also more stable when braking and offers greater steering precision when negotiating bends in quick succession. Lastly, it is equipped with the standard Clio Renaultsport 197's robust, powerful Brembo brake system, using 312mm ventilated disks at the front and 300mm solid disks at the rear.
A sporty, responsive, normally-aspirated engine with output of almost 100hp per litre
Clio Renaultsport 197 F1 Team R27 is powered by a normally-aspirated 2.0 16V engine and mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. Offering a wide power band, maximum power of 197hp is available at 7,250rpm, with 215Nm of torque at 5,550 rpm. The new flagship Clio Renaultsport reaches 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds and takes only 27.5 seconds to travel 1,000 metres from a standing start. Combined fuel consumption is 33.6 mpg with carbon dioxide emissions of 199 grams per kilometre.
Renault F1 Team shows its colours
The Clio Renaultsport 197 F1 Team R27 has standard decals on the front, rear, roof and door to celebrate Renault F1 Team's Championship victories in 2005 and 2006. Customers also have the option to choose not to have the roof and door decals if they prefer, at no additional cost.
In keeping with its motorsport lineage, the new version also features Brembo four-piston brake callipers at the front, Liquid Yellow paint which originally appeared on the Clio Renaultsport 182 and Clio Renaultsport V6 255 and exclusive Renault F1 Team badging. Derived from the world of Formula One, it also boasts a rear air diffuser which channels airflow to increase downforce on the car's rear end, so counteracting lift. Meanwhile, on the side of the car, extractor vents on the front wings reduce turbulence to optimise the car's drag co-efficient and facilitate the outflow of under bonnet heat.
Including Liquid Yellow, the new model is available in six colours, including two non-metallic (Ultra Red and Racing Blue) and four metallic colours (Liquid Yellow, Deep Black, Nimbus and Albi Blue).
Standard features
The Clio Renaultsport 197 F1 Team R27 offers the same comprehensive standard equipment list as the Clio Renaultsport 197, but in addition to air conditioning, cruise control, ESP and speed limiter, the new version adds 17" Anthracite coloured alloy wheels, red painted brake callipers, Renaultsport Recaro Seats, extra tinted rear windows, 60W radio and MP3 compatible CD player with four speakers, two tweeters and fingertip remote controls, and a 1 to 500 numbered plaque and F1 Team decals.
The Recaro seats are usually an £850 option but feature as standard on the Clio Renaultsport 197 F1 Team R27, offering harness cut-outs for a sporty look as well as a weight saving of six kilograms.
The numbered plate alongside the handbrake leaves no doubt as to the unique sporting heritage of the Clio Renaultsport F1 Team R27.
New Renaultsport accessories available
A full range of Renaultsport accessories will be available shortly for personalising other models in the Clio III range, including a Clio Cup rear spoiler, side skirts, twin exhaust pipes and front bumper lower grille. Further details and pricing will be
available in May.
Available to order now
Ordering is open now for the New Clio Renaultsport 197 F1 Team R27, priced at £17,250 on-the-road with a competitive insurance group rating of 15E. First customer deliveries begin in June. |
| Renault revised Clio Campus 2007 range |
The chic Clio II still has a strong place in the UK new car buyers affections, as keeping it on sale as an entry-level car under New Clio III has proved popular with 14,500 sold in the first eight months of this year. Now called Clio Campus, its popularity means that Renault has decided to keep updating the car to keep it competitive. The face-lifted and re-styled Campus 2007 range, including a new special edition, is now available to order from only £6,975 including £1,000 cashback.
The iconic Campus name was revived in October last year, with the much-loved Clio II continuing alongside the all-new Clio III, as the value-for-money supermini of choice for a younger market.
Campus has now been face-lifted to feature a brand new front bumper design, new tailgate with number plate moved to a restyled rear bumper giving it the latest Renault family look and new dedicated Clio Campus badging giving it an even more fresh, modern and funky look. The range has also been expanded to include an all-new Special Edition Campus Sport i-music which will include a 'Tune Point' (anchorage connection point concealed in the glove box) for MP3 players such as iPods, as standard.
The choice of engines remains the same as the 2006 version - 1.2 8V 60hp and 1.5 dCi 68hp and Campus Sport and Campus Sport i-music are available in 1.2 16V 75hp and 1.5 dCi 68hp. New Clio Campus 2007 is available in three-door only at launch, with the five-door version being re-introduced in January 2007 due to popular demand.
Campus = lower prices than its rivals
With Clio Campus, Renault offers customers a supermini for the price of a smaller city car. Prices for Clio Campus start at just £7,975 (currently available with a £1,000 cashback offer making it just £6,975) similar to smaller city cars like the Citroen C1, Ford Ka, Kia Picanto, Peugeot 107 and cheaper than any Ford Fiesta, Citroen C2, Kia Rio or Peugeot 206 supermini for example.
Clio Campus 2007 also has some interior changes including the addition of multifunction trip computer on Campus and the introduction of front lateral airbags as a £200 option on Campus Sport.
Clio Campus Sport i-music Special Edition
The Clio Campus Sport i-music is an all-new special edition with two new exclusive standard features.
Extra tinted rear windows, which were previously not available on Campus, come as standard as well as a 4 x 22 radio/ single CD with a TunePoint - a jack socket positioned in the glove box to allow the connection of an MP3 player such as a Sony Walkman, Creative Zen or iPod allowing you to listen to all your favourite tracks in sporty and stylish surroundings of the Campus.
This is in addition to the Sport's extra equipment including alloy wheels, front sports seats, body coloured door mirrors and rear spoiler, front fog lamps and leather steering wheel and gearknob.
Campus Sport i-music is available in two standard non-metallic colours, Glacier White or Capsicum Red, and four optional metallics, Pearl Black, Mercury, Extreme Blue and Tempest.
The i-music special edition is also specifically badged on the door pillars to identify it.
Manual air conditioning is available on all versions as a £525 option.
The new Clio Campus 2007 range is available to order now with prices starting at £7,975 for the Clio Campus 1.2 8V rising to £9,775 for the Campus Sport i-music dCi 68 Special Edition.
Special offers - cashback and subsidised insurance
In addition to the entry-level Campus being available with £1,000 cashback making it just £6,975, Campus Sport and Sport i-music will be available on Selections with a discounted insurance offer and £700 cashback giving a starting price of £7,975. The insurance package will offer two years fixed price insurance starting from only £12 per month and subsidised by Renault UK. |
| Espace is more dynamique |
Renault's ground-breaking Espace has set the benchmark in the large MPV market for more than 20 years now and the latest revised version launched earlier this year ensured it remains the most modern, stylish and safest large MPV, leading Fleet World magazine to describe Espace as the segment leader, without question.
Diesel-engined versions of Espace account for 90% of sales so for the 2007 model year all diesel versions are now Euro IV emission compliant with 10 more horsepower for the entry-level 1.9 dCi raising the power output to 130hp. Some diesel engines are also equipped with exhaust particulate filters (FAP). The mid-level Dynamique trim, first introduced on Espace in January 2005, has become the most popular version, so a fresh new look with new interior and exterior features is available to order from 11th September.
New interior and exterior features
New Espace Dynamique will be available in five engine choices, one petrol, the 2.0 Turbo 170 and 2.0 Turbo 170 Auto and four new Euro IV diesel: the dCi 130, dCi 140 Automatic FAP, dCi 150 and the powerful dCi 175 FAP.
Other Espace engines available in the range include the entry-level petrol 2.0 16V 140 and range-topping 3.5 V6 24V 245 auto and 3.0 dCi V6 180 auto, the Espace's trump card as it is the only MPV to offer a V6 diesel engine.
The interior includes all-new upholstery for the Dynamique trim with red stitching, bi-coloured red and black seatbelts and new four spoke leather steering wheel emphasising the Espace Dynamique's stylish and sporty look.
The exterior features new 17 Tellus alloys, chrome exterior door handles and roof bars and a body-coloured windscreen base ensuring the modern theme continues on the outside of New Espace Dynamique as well as the inside.
The new-look Espace Dynamique may be more stylish than other MPVs, but it's also versatile and safe too with features such as seats with the safety belt built-in to provide maximum comfort and safety irrespective of the positioning of the seat or angle of recline and the 'slide and lock' system, which are sliding seat rails set in the floor allowing infinite movement within the cabin to maximise practicality. New Espace ensures you and your family not only travel in comfort but also secure in the knowledge that Espace comes with a top five-star crash test safety rating from Euro NCAP.
Prices for the New Dynamique start at £23,945 for the 2.0 Turbo 170, rising to £28,175 for the dCi 140 Auto FAP.
More colours and more sound
Driving such a superior and stylish MPV as an Espace obviously ensures you stand out from the crowd, and now you can set yourself apart from those other less sophisticated MPVs even more by choosing the all-new colour for the Espace range, Venitian Red.
The boot-mounted 4x30W 6 CD player has been deleted and replaced by a more practical and more powerful 4x40W dash-mounted 6 CD player, previously a £450 option.
Espace Dynamique available to order 11th September
The New Espace Dynamique will be available to order from 11th September with prices starting from £23,945 for the 2.0 Turbo 170, rising to £28,175 for the dCi 140 Auto FAP. |
| Renault announces new Clio Renaultsport 197 |
Fans of the hot hatch faced a winter of discontent last year when the undisputed class-leading Clio Renaultsport 182 ceased production to make way for the much-acclaimed all-New Clio.
Well the good news is the wait for its successor is already over - only six months after the launch of the New Clio as the Clio Renaultsport 197 is now available to order prior to its launch day of 18th July - the opening day of the British Motor Show.
Ordering opens on Monday 8th May exclusively for registered members of the www.renaultsport.co.uk community before anyone else, priced at £15,995 and an insurance group of 15E.
This has not been the normal two or three year wait for the hot version while the engineers set to work modifying the standard car because at Renault, they have a separate company, Renault Sport Technologies, who develop all the high performance road and race track cars. They have been developing the Clio Renaultsport 197 side-by-side with the normal model for the last three-years.
Renault has a rich heritage in performance sport hot hatches, and Renault's New Clio Renaultsport 197 is no exception. With best in class power, an impressive level of standard equipment, the Clio Renaultsport 197 ensures it is a very worthy successor to its predecessors.
With a 2.0-litre engine producing 197hp at 7,250rpm and 215 Nm of torque at 5,550, a new six-speed gearbox, this results in 0-62mph in just 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 134mph, customers would need to go up a class and pay thousands more to find a car that matches New Clio Renaultsport 197's performance, making the £15,995 price tag excellent value for money.
For example in the supermini hot hatch class, the new Ford Fiesta ST and VW Polo GTi have only 150hp, the MINI Cooper S is just 170hp, whereas in the next class up, the Golf GTi is also 197hp but costs over £20,000.
New Clio Renaultsport 197 has a combined mpg of 31.7 and CO2 emissions of 209 g/km. |
| Renault jump in the hybrid, greener debate |
Moves by Honda and the RAC Foundation this week to try and convince the British public that you can save money with Honda hybrids and that British drivers don't understand greener cars backfired somewhat with the revelation that Renault's new Megane range includes new dCi diesel engines which match all the low emission and fuel consumption claims made for hybrid cars whilst costing between £3,550 and £5,050 less.
British drivers don't understand greener cars said Honda at the launch of its new Civic Hybrid - Yes they do says Renault which is why they buy thousands of Megane dCi diesels every year giving them the same environmental CO2, Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) and fuel consumption benefits as a hybrid. Yet with prices for a Megane five-door Hatch dCi 86 starting at only £12,750, that's an astonishing £3,550 less than the new Honda Civic Hybrid and £5,015 less than the cheapest Toyota Prius.
The facts
The hybrid cars offered by Honda and Toyota work by offering two power units - one petrol and one electric. Petrol engines are less efficient than diesel engines which are not popular in their home country of Japan so by mating a small electric motor to a small petrol engine they can improve the environmental performance of their car.
In Europe however, many years of diesel engine development has seen turbo chargers and common rail injection improve the efficiency of diesel engines leaps and bounds to the point where a petrol/electric hybrid offers no advantage but the cost and complexity of having two power units adds greatly to the price and servicing costs.
Same VED tax band
The Government has announced new VED bands to reduce the tax for low emission cars with a £65 reduction for Band A cars emitting less than 100g/km of CO2 and a £35 reduction for Band B for cars emitting between 101 and 120g/km.
Widely assumed to be a band for only hybrids and supermini diesels, both the Megane dCi 86 and dCi 106 fit in this category with CO2 emissions of 120g km compared to 109 g/km for the Honda and 104 g/km for the Toyota. Mind you, the Megane is an exception as you will not find any other cars of this size like the Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra or VW Golf in this VED band. Megane is the only car in this class with emissions as low as 120g/km.
Same fuel economy
So what about the reason for the hybrid's existence - lower fuel consumption due to its electric power? Well actually it's only making up for is the less efficient petrol engine so the official combined fuel economy of the Megane dCi 86 is 62.8 mpg and the dCi 106 is 60.1mpg compared to 61.4mpg for the Civic and 65.7mpg for the Prius.
Same Performance
So although we are talking about being green here, does the Megane's performance suffer by having only one engine - not at all. The Megane dCi 86 and 106 dCi have a top speed of 108mph and 115mph respectively and 0-62mph times of 12.7 seconds and 11.1 seconds compared to the Civics' top speed of 115mph and 0-62mph time of 12.1seconds and a top speed of 106 mph and 0-62mph time of 10.9 seconds for the Prius.
Much lower price
So the Megane has the same VED tax band, the same fuel economy and the same performance as a hybrid so the only difference comes with the purchase price. Two power plants don't come free and it shows in the price. If Honda and the RAC Foundation were wondering why people don't want to buy a hybrid here's the answer. A much cheaper alternative already exists and sells very well to the enlightened British public. A Megane Hatch dCi 86 Authentique with air conditioning costs £12,750. A Honda Civic Hybrid costs £16,300 and the cheapest Toyota Prius costs £17,760.
If you don't want to be ruled totally by economising then go on and spoil yourself by moving up to the faster but still super economical dCi 106 six speed Megane with the more luxurious Expression trim level for £14,250 - you'll still be saving thousands.
Clio Campus, new Clio or Modus in VED band B
And you don't want to drive something as big as a Megane but still squeeze into the VED band B then Renault offer two Clio Campus, six New Clios, and 11 Modus mini-MPV's that all use the Renault dCi 68 and 86 engines to great effect emitting less than 120g/km.
Conclusion - Hybrids don't add up against a Renault diesel
Why pay up to £5,000 more for a car that is the same size with the same end results? Hybrids are an interesting novelty but don't achieve anything that a dCi-engined Renault can't achieve. So the next time a hybrid owner boasts about the Greenness of their hybrid you can be sure that the conscience of a Megane dCi owner will be clear as they lounge on the beach in Barbados with the money they saved. |
| Renault wins the first GP as the first Megane special editions hit showroom |
Life is sometimes all about perfect timing and Renault has it spot on with the arrival of its New Megane Renaultsport 225 Renault F1 Team special edition in UK showrooms this week, perfectly coinciding with victory in Bahrain for the Renault F1 Team in the opening round of the FIA Formula One World Championship.
The 2005 World Champion Renault F1 Team and Fernando Alonso got the 2006 F1 Championship season and their title defences off to a fantastic start, with Alonso winning a hard fought battle with Michael Schumacher to win the Bahrain Grand Prix 2006.
Now customers can get their hands on their own version of the Renault F1 Team car for the bargain price of just £19,500 with the arrival of the special edition Megane Renaultsport 225 'Renault F1 Team' in UK showrooms this week.
Created in honour of Renault F1 Team's double 2005 FIA World Championship wins, which saw Renault claim the World and Drivers' Championships last year, the Megane Renaultsport 225 'Renault F1 Team' provides the thrill of driving on the road that the R26 race car does on the track.
It comes in the eye-catching Renault F1 Team decals and detailing featuring the F1 Team logo and metallic blue paint. Each car has its own numbered plaque and includes amongst its standard features the sporty Cup chassis, large black gloss 18 alloy wheels that are 1.5kg lighter than Megane Renaultsport 225 and 8 wide Vs 7.5 and Recaro seats in blue/ black cloth to echo the exterior styling.
Just as the race-winning R26 Renault F1 Team car benefits from the latest technological advances, so does the Megane Renaultsport 225 'Renault F1 Team' special edition.
Re-tuned front and rear damper settings, uprated front and rear spring rates (25% front and 77% rear), de-connectable ESP for track days, revised stiffened electrically assisted power steering and Brembo front brake callipers and increased brake master cylinder diameter all come as standard on the Megane Renaultsport 225 'Renault F1 Team' special edition. Keeping your cool is also assured with climate control.
Renault F1 Team is hoping to repeat its success in next weekend's Malaysian Grand Prix 2006, and now you can get your hands on one of the hottest hatches, the Megane Renaultsport 225 'Renault F1 Team' special edition, available in UK showrooms now at £19,500. |
| New Clio Renaultsport |
The challenge faced by Renault Sport Technologies' engineers when first penning New Clio Renaultsport 197 was to respect the original personality of Clio III while at the same time highlighting the newcomer's own dynamic qualities. The result is an outstanding car which puts the accent firmly on performance, passion and driving pleasure and hits the UK market in early Summer.
New Clio Renaultsport stands out as a worthy successor to Clio Renaultsport 182 2.0 16V and features a groundbreaking first in its segment in the form of a rear air diffuser which uses technology derived directly from Formula 1. In association with the extractor vents in the front wings, it ensures excellent aerodynamic performance.
Sportier than ever, New Clio Renaultsport is powered by an evolution of the normally-aspirated 2.0 16V engine, the power of which has been increased to 197hp. This is equivalent to near 100hp/litre, making it the highest specific power output of its category. This has been achieved partly thanks to an increase in its volumetric efficiency which has not only improved engine power but has also taken torque to a best-in-class 215Nm at 5,550rpm.
Acceleration from standstill to 62 mph requires a mere 6.9 seconds, while the kilometre standing start is covered in just 27.5 seconds. Top speed is 134 mph.
With a combined cycle fuel consumption of 31.7 mpg (209g of CO2/km), New Clio Renaultsport's fuel consumption is amongst the lowest of the hot hatch segment for cars of comparable power output.
Coupled with the new six-speed gearbox, this powerful, responsive engine offers first-class sports performance and driving pleasure.
The double-axis strut system guarantees rigorously precise handling.
New Clio Renaultsport is built at Renault's Dieppe plant, which specialises in the production of the brand's sports models.
Chapter 1: Punchy looks
- Designed for performance
- Sporty interior
Chapter 2: Formula 1-derived aerodynamics
- Air diffuser: racing technology
- Extractor vents for optimised performance
Chapter 3: A high-performance chassis
- Innovative front suspension, strengthened rear suspension
- Glued to the road
- Uprated braking
Chapter 4: A specific power output of near 100hp/litre
- A sporty, responsive normally-aspirated engine
- Driving pleasure and acoustic comfort
- A six-speed gearbox engineered for performance
Chapter 5: Driving pleasure in complete safety
- Active safety: a development priority
- Passive safety: uncompromising protection for all passengers
Chapter 6: A hot hatch success story
- A single production site
- An uncontested success |
| Renault commitment 2009 |
Today President and Chief Executive Officer Carlos Ghosn announced Renault Commitment 2009, a growth plan whose ambition is to make and sustain Renault as the most profitable European volume car company.
Renault makes three major commitments:
- Position the next Laguna, which will be launched in 2007, among the top three models in its segment in terms of product and service quality;
- Achieve an operating profit margin of 6% in 2009;
- Sell an additional 800,000 units in 2009 as compared to 2005.
A new, exciting page in the history of Renault is being written, based on the motivation and dedication of the women and men of our company, said Mr. Ghosn.
An unprecedented product offensive in Renault history
Renault will launch 26 new products better focused on the needs and aspirations of its customers. The strength of the product plan will lead to an unprecedented acceleration of vehicle launches: in addition to the two launched in 2006, Renault will launch an average of eight models each year from 2007 to 2009, which is double the number launched from 1998 to 2005. Half of these cars will expand the lineup.
The product offensive will result in widening the lineup in four directions:
- Renewing the pillars of the existing lineup - the Megane family, Twingo, Kangoo and Master;
- Developing a luxury range: with five vehicles launched during the plan, Renault will double the volume of its sales in this segment1;
- Entering new segments where Renault is currently not present, such as SUVs, 4x4s, crossovers and niche vehicles.
- Developing products to support growth in markets outside Europe, such as with the Logan program.
Renault's sales outside Europe are expected to grow from 27% of total sales in 2005 to 37% in 2009, an increase of 80%.
The average age of Renault products sold in Europe will drop from 3.8 years in 2005 to 2.2 years in 2009.
The enrichment of Renault's offer is expected to increase sales by an additional 800,000 units in 2009 compared to 2005.
Quality and technology commitments
The next Laguna, to be launched in 2007, will be among the top three in its segment in product and service quality. The progress made on this product will be applied with the same diligence to the rest of the lineup throughout the world.
In terms of fuel economy and CO2 emissions reduction, the Renault lineup is among the most efficient in the world today. The company's objective is further improvement. By 2008, Renault will sell one million cars emitting less than 140 grams of CO2 per kilometer, of which one-third will emit less than 120 grams.
In addition, 50% of gasoline-powered engines for sale in Europe in 2009 will have the ability to operate with a mixture of gasoline and ethanol. By the same date, all diesel engines will be able to operate with 30% diester2.
Within the Alliance, Renault is preparing a full range of alternative technologies, such as hybrids, fuel cells and electric vehicles. In France by the end of the plan, Renault will test fuel cell vehicles equipped with the latest Alliance technologies.
As the current European safety leader, Renault will continue to innovate in this field to strengthen its leadership position.
Resources necessary to assure the plan's success
Renault will improve its competitiveness through a cost reduction program, optimised investments in all areas, and the benefits from synergies developed with Nissan within the Alliance. It will focus on:
- Reducing purchasing costs by 14% in three years;
- Reducing manufacturing costs by 12% and increasing the capacity utilisation rate from 60% in 2005 to 75% in 20093;
- Reducing logistics costs by 9%;
1. Luxury vehicles are those with a sales price above 27,000 euros, according to the price commonly used in the global automotive industry to define models in that segment.
2. Diester is a fuel obtained from vegetable or animal oil.
3. Renault's standard capacity utilisation rate is calculated on the basis of a full capacity rate of 5,000 hours per year. This rate is more demanding than the one usually reported by the industry, which runs between 3,760 to 4,000 hours per year.
- Reducing general and administrative costs from 5.1% of revenues to less than 4% by the end of the plan, with all support functions committed to achieving world-class performance as measured by an independent global benchmarking firm;
- Reducing total distribution costs per unit in Europe by 8%;
- Research and development expenses and investments for new vehicles will not exceed 11.5% of revenues in the period from 2006 to 2009.
Cross-functional management that is focused on customer satisfaction and driven by profit is being established through regional management, globalised functions, program management and 11 cross-functional teams.
Renault, the most profitable European volume car company
Renault's performance will be measured by the increase in its operating margin. The company commits to reach 6% operating margin in 2009. This achievement - which will be a record for Renault - will be surpassed the following year. This commitment will make and sustain Renault as the most profitable European volume car company.
A linear and significant increase in the dividend - from 1.8 euros per share in 2005 to an objective of 4.5 euros per share in 2009 - will be proposed to Renault's board of directors, who will submit a yearly resolution to the annual shareholders' meeting.
With a clear vision, and prioritised, precise and measurable objectives, I am convinced that Renault will become, in the framework of the Alliance, a great company with sustainable high performance in the global automotive industry, said Ghosn. |
| Renault set to build on New Clio success with 5 doors |
Renault's New Clio has enjoyed a phenomenal launch since the three-door version arrived last October, with its combination of funky, sleek looks, large interior cabin space, high quality materials and top performance and value.
New Clio three door's talents have bowled both the public and Press over, with many top awards already under its belt including the much-coveted European Car of the Year 2006 and Best Supermini at the What Car? magazine and Test Drive magazine awards 2006. Not content with that, New Clio remains the car to beat in magazine group road tests remaining at the top of the pile against every rival car it has been tested against to date.
Five times the Va Va Voom!
Now, with the arrival of the five-door New Clio, the success looks set to continue. In UK showrooms from 27th January, New Clio five door offers the same top quality package as the three-door but with five times the Va Va Voom!
The five door offers even more practicality and ease of access to all that space, for those who regularly carry rear seat passengers but don't require the extensive versatility and deceptively spacious interior offered by the Modus mini-MPV. A Va Va Voom sized helping of luxury and style are also assured with the top-of-the range Privilege and Initiale, offering the ultimate in luxury in the supermini segment, and available exclusively only on the five-door version.
New Clio five-door is suitable for all budgets with prices starting from £8,995 for the entry-level Authentique 1.2 16V 75 rising to £15,050 for the luxurious Initiale with its powerful 1.5 dCi 106 engine, six speed gearbox and leather-lined interior. This is a £600 premium over the three door Clio.
A Va Va Voom sized amount of standard equipment at a great price!
New Clio five door has an impressive list of standard equipment available on each of its five trim levels. However it's core features set the benchmark offering some features such a front lateral airbags on all versions including Authentique, which were previously not available on the entry-level Clio II model helping New Clio become the eighth Renault to achieve the maximum five-stars from Euro NCAP. Customers can be reassured they are travelling in safety and luxury in five door New Clio.
The trim levels available are the Authentique, Expression, the sporty Dynamique, Privilege and range-topping luxurious Initiale.
Just like the three-door New Clio, the five-door version leaves its rivals in the shade when it comes to price which may be a nasty surprise to them but a pleasant one for customers! Expected to be the biggest seller in petrol form is the Dynamique 1.4 16V 98 petrol engine at £10,850. This compares well to equivalent rival models such as the VW Polo Sport 1.4 100 which at £13,110 is £2,260 more or the Vauxhall Corsa SXi 1.4i 16V which at £11,400 is £550 more expensive than the Clio.
In diesel form, Renault expects its Dynamique 1.5dCi 86 with air conditioning at £12,250 to be its biggest diesel seller, and which also compares favourably to its rival's equivalent models. The Ford Fiesta Zetec Climate 1.6 Duratorq TDCi is priced at £12,295 and the VW Polo Sport 1.4 Tdi 80 which at £13,480 is £1,230 more and six hp less than the Clio!
It is not just pricing where New Clio is a class above, it also offers excellent fuel economy too, with the Dynamique 1.5 dCi 86 which offers an impressive combined fuel consumption of 64.2 mpg and CO2 emissions of just 117 g/km.
Low insurance groups
Insurance groups start from as low as 2E for the entry-level New Clio five-door, rising to 6E for the luxurious Initiale which is packed full of standard equipment including Climate Control, parking proximity sensors, Renault Hands Free keycard ( a segment first) and metallic paint. Not only does New Clio five-door offer a top quality package worthy of the European Car of the Year 2006 and impressive interior cabin space, it saves you pounds on your insurance too!
In some cases the insurance group has dropped when compared to the equivalent previous Clio II model such as the Dynamique 1.4 16V 98 which was 5E but is now lower at 4E, and the Expression 1.5 dCi 68 which was 4E but is now two groups lower on New Clio at 2E.
New Clio five door's low insurance rating compares favourably to its rivals, with the Authentique's 2E rating being one class lower than the equivalent Ford Fiesta Studio 1.25 Duratec which is 3E. The New Clio Dynamique 1.4 16V 98 insurance rating is just 4E compared to the Fiesta Zetec 1.4 at 5E and the Peugeot 206 Sport 1.4 at 6E.
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| Renault launches Scenic Oasis special edition |
Renault's distinctive Scenic range continues to ride high in the sales charts, even with the arrival of recent entrants to the compact-MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) sector. To ensure that the original mid-sized MPV maintains its popularity against its key rivals, particularly among retail customers, Renault has launched a new special edition for the Scenic range, 'Oasis'. This special edition has already proved popular with other Megane bodystyles and places the emphasis firmly on technology and value-for-money, with prices from £15,920.
Based on the Expression trim level, the Oasis offers £1,250 of extra equipment for just £300 more. The first of the added extras is the Hands-Free Renault Card - still unique in its sector - which automatically opens the car doors when it senses the card and also allows the driver to start the car just by pressing the start button, without the need to hunt through pockets or shopping bags for a traditional key.
The Hands-Free system is very family-friendly, much like several other items of additional equipment on the new Scenic model: 6-CD changer, alarm, electrically folding door mirrors and a fixed glass panoramic sunroof. Other standard equipment includes: 60W RDS radio/single CD with fingertip remote controls, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, air conditioning, front and rear electric windows, automatic headlamps and windscreen wipers.
For customers wishing to specify their Scenic to an even higher level, several options are available, including: cruise control with speed limiter (£250), metallic paint (£350), opening tailgate window (£150), parking sensor (£250) and Sleep Safe child head restraints (£50 single).
Eight versions of the latest addition to the high-selling Scenic range are available, with five models in five-seater Scenic guise and three in seven-seater Grand Scenic. Customers can choose from four engine (no dCi 86 or 1.6 VVT 111 auto on Grand Scenic) and three gearbox combinations. |
| Renault off to flying start with launch of Renaultsport F1 Team |
Renault has announced prices and specifications for the New Renault Megane 2006 range and also raised the bar in the sports hatch stakes with the launch of a special edition Megane Renaultsport 225 to celebrate its Formula 1 Constructors' Championship title from last season.
The Renault Megane continues to be Europe's best-selling car, so the arrival of two new special editions and the lack of price rises over the current version looks certain to keep the distinctive range at the top of the sales charts. And that's not forgetting the fact that prices still start from just £11,450 on the road. There are no changes yet to the Scenic MPV range which is built on the Megane platform.
New Megane Renaultsport 225 'Renault F1 Team' special edition
Giving the New Megane 2006 even more impact is the launch of a new special edition, Megane Renaultsport 225 Renault F1 Team, to celebrate Renault's 2005 Constructors' and Fernando Alonso's Drivers' Formula 1 World Championship titles.
Based on the Megane Renaultsport 225 Cup - and therefore three-door Sport Hatch - the eye-catching newcomer offers a powerful combination of track-proven technology and £1,450 worth of equipment for only £900 more than the Cup, at a price of £19,500.
In addition to the standard specification of the 'Cup' version, the latest hot hatch from Renault's performance division gains: 60W CD/MP3 RDS radio, climate control, new black-gloss 18 spoked lightweight alloys with matching door mirrors and blue/black Recaro front sports seats and blue detailing on the steering wheel and gearshift gaiter. Standard equipment on the 'Cup' includes: Cup Chassis (includes Brembo front brakes, disconnectable ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), uprated dampers and springs and shock absorbers to reinforce the sensation of rigidity and augment cornering ability), plus cruise control with speed limiter, exclusive Dunlop SportMaxx tyres and trip computer.
As you would expect when it comes to the glamorous world of Formula 1, the new special edition certainly isn't lacking in image or exclusivity, boasting 'Ultra Blue' paintwork, a numbered plaque at the base of the centre console, plus unique Renault F1 Team decals and badging on the front wings and front and rear bumpers. The production level is not limited to a specific number.
New 'Maxim' special edition
Broadening the appeal of the New Megane 2006 range even further, particularly in the retail sector, a new 'Maxim' special edition will also be available from launch to appeal to the more cost-conscious buyer.
Available for the same price as the already sporty Dynamique versions on which it's based, the new special edition is available in Hatch and Sport Hatch models with a choice of either the 1.5 dCi 86 or the petrol 1.6 VVT 111, the two biggest-selling engines which account for approximately 60% of Megane hatchback sales.
Reflecting the New Megane 2006 range's unique French style and built-in value for money approach, Maxim versions boast £450 of free extra equipment such as 17 Steppe alloy wheels and 60W single CD/MP3 player, with prices of £13,250 and £13,550 for the Sport Hatch versions, £13,750 and £14,050 for the Hatch.
New Megane 2006 - Timely arrival in highly competitive lower medium sector
The lower medium sector has seen the arrival of several new and revised contenders in recent months and the arrival of New Megane 2006 could not be more timely. Designed to build upon the success of the previous range, the facelifted line-up offers a revised look, greater refinement and an ever wider choice of engines and options.
New Megane 2006 - Range Structure
The Megane range structure and equipment levels remain very similar to the original collection, with seven distinct body styles, namely the Hatch, Sport Hatch, Sport Saloon, Sport Tourer and Coupe-Cabriolet, offered with a total of five different trim levels (depending on model and excluding Renaultsport range): Extreme, Authentique, Expression, Dynamique, Privilege. Scenic and Grand Scenic do not change until 2007.
From the outside, each of the Megane range's five body styles receives a subtle exterior facelift. At the front, the new models have a revised V shaped front grille and front bumper, a more prominent Renault diamond and new slim, tapered headlamps, whilst at the rear there are new rear light clusters (excluding Coupe-Cabriolet) and bumper unit.
There are also several alterations to specific trim levels, such as body-coloured door mirrors and door handles on Authentique, 'Flint' bumper and side rubbing strips from Expression upwards, chrome effect roof bars on Sport Tourer versions from Dynamique and above, plus a wide range of new wheel trims and alloy wheel designs for each version.
The improvements to New Megane are even more apparent on the inside, where the revised interior reflects steps made in quality and materials, similar to those of New Clio and New Laguna which have been received so well.
Each of the New Megane 2006 models features new interior trim and cabin detailing, plus new look dials with white background lighting and soft-touch dashboard materials. To emphasise their sporting air, Dynamique models also have chrome surrounds to the vents, controls and handles.
Renault continues to improve the quality of its products in all areas and New Megane 2006 benefits from the company's increasingly high standards. As such, the new versions have improved fit and finish, the interior being an even quieter environment than before thanks to enhanced soundproofing of the cabin, engine and drivetrain.
The good news continues with the improvements to the electric steering column gleaned from the development of the Renaultsport Trophy, focusing mainly on a revised tube in tube steering column to give superior feel and handling around the centrepoint. The ECU (Electronic Control Unit) has also been re-programmed to give more consistent steering responses.
While some of the revisions to the latest Megane range are clearly quite comprehensive, Renault's usual attention to detail is also clearly evident even right down to the new flat blade wipers for example.
Megane Renaultsport 225 - Same high performance, even greater purpose
The Renaultsport range remains the same with a three model line-up, Megane Renaultsport 225 in Hatch and Sport Hatch guise, with the focused 'Cup' version in Sport Hatch only. Prices again are unaffected, however, there are several notable revisions to the range in addition to the new Renault F1 Team special edition.
This starts with greater differentiation between the standard 225 and the more hardcore 225 'Cup' version, as the latter receives gets a striking new blue/black 'Scotec' cloth interior, while the normal Megane Renaultsport 225 now comes equipped with a full leather interior, climate control and 60W single CD/MP3 RDS radio as standard. These optional extras on the outgoing range would have cost over £1,000, yet the retail price remains the same.
There are also two noteworthy option changes for the entire Renaultsport range. The first picks up where the Clio Renaultsport 182 Trophy hot hatch left off, as the Recaro seats are available as an £850 option on all Sport Hatch versions. And, due to the continued demand for the the Cup Chassis option on the standard Megane Renaultsport 225, which accounts for around 40% of current range sales, the pack now includes anthracite-coloured door mirrors to give the cars even greater on-road presence.
Two colour changes are also made with the launch of the new vibrant non-metallic blue, Ultra Blue, which replaces Capsicum Red, plus the new metallic pearlescent blue, Albi Blue, which replaces Arctic Blue.
New Megane, New Power
The Megane range already featured some of the most highly-regarded engines in its sector and New Megane 2006 will be no different. The line-up gains a new flagship 2.0 dCi 150 diesel engine and sees the welcome addition of an entry-level dCi 106 6-speed option to the Megane Coupe-Cabriolet series, offering an impressive 56.5mpg on a combined cycle. With prices for the new entry-level diesel version starting at £19,110, this top-selling and now even more frugal, convertible looks certain to cause even more of a stir among its rivals, whatever the weather.
The class-leading 2.0 dCi 150 engine which was recently introduced on New Laguna is scheduled to appear across the Megane range in May and will offer a strong combination of refined, lusty performance and low fuel consumption for long distance and inner city journeys. This new powerplant offers 340Nm of torque at just 2,000rpm, plus a 0-62mph time of 8.7 seconds in the Hatch, only marginally slower than the most powerful 2.0T 165 turbo petrol engine at 8.3 seconds.
In keeping with New Megane 2006 sense of style, there are also several colour changes to the range. Nordic Green is added to the Megane Coupe-Cabriolet models, while elsewhere, Hessian is replaced by Quartz, Extreme Blue replaces Ottoman Blue (all except Sport Saloon) and Gunmetal replaces Hologram Grey.
Orders for the New Megane 2006 range can be placed from 1st February in time for the new registration plate change. Scenic and Grand Scenic are unaffected by the changes to the Megane range. |
| Megane Renaultsport 2006 to make UK debut |
Visitors to this week's Autosport International show (12-15 January) will be the first in the UK to see the New Megane Renaultsport 225 in the metal when the car makes its debut at the NEC Birmingham today (Thursday 12 January).
Renault already had an impressive show line-up even before this announcement, with last season's FIA Formula 1 World Championship-winning R25 already confirmed to appear alongside the awesome Megane Trophy race car. Now the unveiling of the latest incarnation of the company's highly-regarded sports hatch will no doubt prove just as big a crowd-puller.
Performance car fans will be pleased to learn that not only are there no price increases for the revised Megane Renaultsport 225 range, even with more standard equipment like climate control, full leather interior and 60W CD/MP3 RDS radio on the Megane Renaultsport 225 for example, but also that there is a new special edition designed to celebrate the company's Formula One success last season.
Possibly the most apt form of everyday, practical transport for motor sport fans around the country, the new Megane Renaultsport 225 Renault F1 Team special edition comes with 60W CD/MP3 RDS radio, climate control, Cup Chassis (includes Brembo front brakes, disconnectable ESP, exclusive Dunlop SportMaxx tyres, uprated dampers and springs), new black-gloss 18 spoked lightweight alloys with matching door mirrors and Recaro front sports seats.
Emphasising the car's motor sport roots, the latest addition to the Renaultsport stable also features unique Renault F1 Team decals and badging on the front wings and front and rear bumpers, plus a numbered plaque at the base of the centre console. Even with its comprehensive list of standard equipment and exclusivity this new three-door Sport Hatch version costs only £900 more than the Cup on which it is based, but offers £1,450 worth of extra features at £19,500.
As mentioned above, prices for the new range are unchanged for the current version. The Cup is available at £18,600, followed by the 225 Sport Hatch at £19,500 and Hatch for £20,000. Orders for the New Megane 2006 range can be placed from 1 February at Renault dealers nationwide. For those lucky enough to be attending the show, to take a closer look at one of the high performance Renaults on display, whether for road or track, visit the Renault display in Hall 7.
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| Clio and Modus score a hat-trick |
Proving that Renault's small cars have as much substance as they do style, the New Clio and Modus have scooped three awards between them in Test Drive magazine's inaugural Car of the Year awards, including the overall Readers' Choice Award.
With an enviable array of talents including its ingenious 'boot chute' and 'Triptic' multi-adaptable rear seat system, the Renault Modus has continued to attract an ever-growing fanbase since its launch in 2004. In fact, Renault's funky mini-MPV already struck gold twice last year, winning both Scottish Small Car of the Year and Diesel Car magazine's Best Supermini. This time around, Modus won not just once, but twice, in Test Drive's 2006 awards, including the prestigious Readers' Choice Award and Compact MPV title.
In winning the Readers' Choice Award, Modus fought off all of the other fifteen category winners, including considerably more expensive cars such as the BMW 5-Series and Nissan 350Z. During the course of a day's vigorous testing, the Test Drive Car of the Year reader test team car continued to bestow considerable praise on Renault's small car with a big heart, including comments such as, It's the most ingenious car here and It's so practical and well thought out and it's fun to drive.
In the Compact MPV category, Modus drove away with the Gold Award thanks to its good driving experience, solid safety credentials, storage space and overall versatility. Indeed, the magazine enthused, The Modus has MPV flexibility yet is as easy to live with as a supermini - a genuine winning combination.
For the last ten years, Renault's chic Clio has consistently featured among the UK's Top 10 best-selling cars and the signs are already looking extremely positive for the latest version. Not content with scooping the European Car of the Year 2006 title in November, New Clio continued its impressive introduction as it joined its sister model on the podium, taking gold in the Supermini category.
Since its launch in October, New Clio has attracted numerous plaudits for its impressive blend of fine driving characteristics, interior quality and space, refinement and style. Its latest award win certainly attested to these credentials, The new Clio's excellent, composed ride and its refined, relaxed feel are aimed at customers who have to live in the real world. Long motorway journeys need hold no dread.
Test Drive's final verdict on the car was equally noteworthy, The new Clio may still be a little car, but it has convinced us it's big on big-car features. And it will convince anyone who buys it too. |
| Renault reveals new Megane 2006 |
The current Renault Megane took the market by storm when it was launched with its distinctive design and character including that famous shaking that ass rear end. For 2006 it has received the first nip and tuck facelift affecting five of the Megane bodystyles, namely the Hatch, Sport Hatch, Sport Saloon, Sport Tourer, Coupe-Cabriolet. The Scenic and Grand Scenic, which were launched after the rest of the range, remain unchanged.
On sale from 1 February 2006, fans of the shapely rear end will be relieved to know that has not changed, and many fans there are too, as the Megane range has been Europe's best selling model now for three years including 2005.
New Megane's facelift coincides with a revised range of engines, all of which are Euro 4-compliant. The diesel range has been expanded with the introduction of a high power 150hp version of the latest 2.0 dCi unit - the new market benchmark in performance and fuel consumption - as well as the inclusion of a periodic regeneration particulate filter for the 1.9 dCi unit, whose power output has been upped to 130hp. The New Megane diesel range has also been extended to include the award-winning 85hp and 105hp versions of the 1.5 dCi engine. The 105hp variant alone boasts the best power/fuel consumption/CO2 emissions ratio in its class.
In addition to the list of both new and proven diesel power plants, the choice of petrol engines available for New Megane stands out as one the most comprehensive on the market and extends from the 1.4 16V (100hp), the 1.6 16V (110hp), the 2.0 16V (135hp) and the 2.0T (165hp) to the 225hp 2.0 16V Turbo unit which powers Megane Renaultsport.
Refined appeal
Megane's innovative, attractive lines have evolved to feature an even more eye-catching frontal styling and a more modern design for the rear. New Megane also comes with a range of new technologies aimed at enhancing travelling comfort and driving pleasure.
The more refined, dynamic design of New Megane is aimed at establishing it as the benchmark in its segment. Its racy front end and muscular, robust lines exude an impression of strength and dynamism which is underpinned by the new design of the headlamps, grille and front bumper. The headlamps are more high-tech thanks to their elliptical modules, highlighting New Megane's frontal styling. The car's revised front end is further accentuated by the slightly more pronounced V of the grille which tops the redesigned front bumper. The more generously dimensioned air-intake and the protective housing have been re-penned to blend in even more harmoniously with the new front-end design. The foglamps are now located further towards the outside of the car, as on Megane Renaultsport.
Meanwhile, at the rear, the now translucent light clusters are the new lighting cues of New Megane Sport Hatch, Hatch and Megane Renaultsport, with parallel horizontal lines highlighting the car's dynamic, modern looks. The styling of the rear lights of the Sport Saloon and Sport Tourer versions has also evolved. The design of the new bumper - which is unchanged in the case of Megane Renaultsport - has been refreshed by the inclusion of protective beading.
Inside, New Megane comes with a choice of upholstery available in new, even more refined colours.
Renault's engineers have equipped New Megane with new functions aimed at further enhancing travelling comfort and driving pleasure, including parking proximity sensors, rain and light sensors, optimized climate control, flat blade windscreen wipers and an active carbon cabin filter. New Megane comes with the new-generation Carminat Navigation II System which is not only easier to use but which also features a bigger-capacity memory.
The 150hp 2.0 dCi: flagship of a new generation of diesel engines
New Megane's facelift coincides with a revised range of power plants, all of which are now Euro 4-compliant. The diesel range sees the introduction of the brand's new flagship, the 150hp 2.0 dCi, the inclusion of a periodic regeneration particulate filter for the 1.9 dCi - the power output of which has been increased to 130hp - and a 5hp gain for the 1.5 dCi engines.
The new 2.0 dCi features the latest diesel technologies. Powerful, quiet-running, economical and clean, it is one of the most efficient engines in its category, delivering 150hp at 4,000rpm with torque of 340Nm at 2,000rpm. Combined with a new manual 6-speed gearbox, it offers a particularly wide speed range and a level of dynamic and sports performance rarely seen in its segment, while careful attention has also been paid to acoustic comfort. The engine accelerates from a standing start to 100kph in a best-in-class time of 8.7 seconds. The 150hp 2.0 dCi-powered New Megane is the most fuel-efficient car in its segment with consumption of just 5.4l/100km (combined cycle), which also represents the segment's lowest CO2 emission value (144g/km).
The range of 1.9 dCi engines has been extended to include a new version whose power output has been increased to 130hp and which is now equipped with a periodic regeneration particulate filter. As an alternative to the 6-speed manual gearbox, it can also be coupled to Renault's flick-shift, proactive 4-speed automatic transmission.
The Euro 4-compliant version of the 100hp 1.5 dCi diesel engine now delivers 105hp, while torque has been increased by 20% to 240Nm at 2,000rpm. Combined with 6-speed manual transmission, its fuel consumption is 4.7l/100km (combined cycle) with CO2 emissions of just 120g/km. The switch to Euro 4 compliance has also seen the power output of the 80hp 1.5 dCi increase by 5hp to 85hp.
The list of petrol power plants features five engines which are available in the different body types: 1.4 16V (100hp), 1.6 16V (110hp), 2.0 16V (135hp), 2.0T 16V (165hp) and Renaultsport 2.0T 16V (225hp) version.
The class benchmark in active and passive safety
New Megane stands out as a further example of Renault's expertise in vehicle safety. Its driver aids ensure perfect control of the vehicle and help correct the vehicle's trajectory in emergency situations. The level of passive safety is also remarkable, with both the Hatch and Coupe-Cabriolet versions obtaining a five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating.
New Megane comes with a long list of driver aids which contribute to ensuring that the driver stays in control of his or her vehicle in an emergency. All versions come with the latest-generation 8.0 Bosch ABS, complete with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist which ensure that maximum use is made of the car's braking power.
According to equipment level, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with understeer control is also available. This feature is complemented by ASR traction control and an engine torque overrun regulation function (MSR). Meanwhile, New Megane can be ordered with a tyre pressure monitoring system which is designed to detect slow punctures or incompatible tyre pressures.
The Megane Hatch was the first car of its category to be awarded a five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating, while the Coupe-Cabriolet version continues to stand out as the only vehicle in its class to have obtained the same result.
New Megane is designed to ensure maximum protection in all the situations recorded by Renault's accident research programme and the car features the third-generation Renault System for Restraint and Protection (SRP III) which guarantees optimal protection for all passengers wherever they are seated. In addition, according to body type, New Megane is equipped with up to 10 airbags (according to equipment level), double pretensioners and load limiters.
Further details on the New Megane 2006 range, including insurance groups, pricing and specification will be available closer to launch, however, please note that the launch of New Megane 2006 does not affect the current Scenic and Grand Scenic models. |
| Renault F1 team's championship |
British motor racing fans can whet their appetites for another season of exhilarating motorsport at Autosport International, NEC Birmingham on 14th/15th January 2006 and even get the chance to get up close to the Renault R25, Fernando Alonso's championship-winning Formula One car.
During the event, which showcases the best racing cars from 2005 and also gives a glimpse of the thrills to come in 2006, Renault will be exhibiting a total of six cars to highlight its involvement in motor racing at all levels. The undoubted star of the show will be the R25 Renault F1 Team car that helped carry Alonso to victory in the 2005 FIA Formula 1 Championship and Renault to glory in the Constructors' Championship.
Alongside R25 will be Manor Motorsport's 2005 championship-winning Formula Renault single-seater, illustrating Renault UK's contribution to grassroots level motor sport and the career path of would-be Formula One drivers such as 2000 Formula Renault champion Kimi Raikkonen. Current champion Oliver Jarvis, recent winner of the McLaren Autosport BRDC award, will be available to guide fans around the car and discuss his hopes for emulating his Finnish predecessor.
Two of the most awesome cars to break cover in 2005 will also be on show at Autosport International. The mid-engined Megane Trophy race car that wowed crowds at World Series by Renault events across Europe in 2005 will be on the stand, next to its roadgoing cousin, Megane Renaultsport 225 Cup.
Meanwhile, track racers and hot hatch fans will be keen to take a look at the concept version of the New Clio Renaultsport, which previews not only the road car due in mid-2006 but also hints at the look of its race car brother which was unveiled at the Essen Motorshow, Germany last month and which will make its UK track debut in the 2007 ELF Renault Clio Cup.
Among its array of track cars, Renault will also be exhibiting a special road-going version of New Clio. Designed to capture the imagination of hot hatch fans and emphasise Clio's sporting heritage, the black Dynamique S will feature a full aftermarket bodykit, rear spoiler, sport exhaust and 16 alloy wheels and is sure to appeal to modified car fans seeking an affordable modern car with a sporting look.
Throughout the show, staff from Renault's motorsport programme will be on hand to talk to visitors about Renault's UK Championships as well as answer questions of both a sporting and technical nature.
Renault racers in '100 Years of Grand Prix Racing' exhibition
In addition to its own stand, Renault will also be showcasing its own centenary of success in Autosport International's '100 Years of Grand Prix Racing' display in the Historic Hall. Exhibit No.1 will be a 1907 Renault Vanderbilt Cup car, virtually identical to the 1906 Renault that won the very first Grand Prix - the French Grand Prix run on a 63-mile triangular road circuit east of Le Mans - and the final car in the display will be a Renault R25, similar to the vehicle which carried Fernando Alonso to Championship victory this year. |
| Luxury and style to MPV market |
Renault's pioneering Espace has set the benchmark in the large MPV market now for over 20 years and the latest version introduced a couple of years ago only confirmed its lead over the competition. Espace IV provides levels of technology, equipment, refinement and style that stand comparison with any mid size Executive car, even leading CAR magazine to call it the Rolls-Royce of MPVs.
Providing 5 star EuroNCAP crash test safety levels and features such as seats with the safety belt built-in to provide maximum comfort and safety and sliding seat rails set in the floor to maximise practicality doesn't come cheap however. The best-selling Espace is the mid-range 2.2dCi 150 Dynamique priced at £24,800 so MPV buyers with a strict eye on the budget have to buy, how shall we put this kindly, older less sophisticated cars.
However, all is not lost for those who have always aspired to an Espace as Renault are introducing a new entry-level special edition called Espace Rush. Even though the Espace's share of the large MPV market has gone up this year, Renault are keen to attract buyers shopping at the sub-£20,000 level at a time when most of the competition like the Ford Galaxy, VW Sharan, SEAT Alhambra and Kia Sedona is aging, having been around since the '90s.
Value for money
New Espace Rush is available in two engine choices, one petrol 2.0 16V 140 priced at just £18,995 and one diesel, the acclaimed whisper-quiet 1.9 dCi 120 at £19,995.
These prices are £655 less than the entry-level Authentique yet that's not the end of the good news as extra equipment is also fitted - to the tune of £1,250 worth.
The Espace is only available in these two engines, there are no long wheelbase Grand or Automatic versions offered, keeping the range simple and prices lower. There is also a customer finance offer available at 0% APR with a 30% deposit making the monthly payment even lower.
Lower prices do not mean giving up the luxuries
Based on the entry-level Authentique, Espace Rush comes packed full of core features included on all versions of Espace such as air conditioning with separate temperature controls for the driver and front passenger (again another reason why Espace is a cut above normal cars), 60W single CD RDS radio with six speakers and fingertip remote control, electric / heated door mirrors, height / reach adjustable steering wheel, trip computer, automatic parking brake for easier hill starts, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) and Brake Assist, ESP, anti-whiplash front head rests and R.A.I.D. (Renault Anti Intruder Device) locking the doors on the move.
New Espace Rush also comes with following equipment as standard; 17 alloy wheels, extra tinted glass on the rear windows and tailgate, roof bars / rear roof spoiler, leather steering wheel, and 'Sam' upholstery in carbon with carbon/ beige trim.
New 'Slide and Lock' seat rail system
New Espace Rush has in its core features the innovative new 'Slide and lock' seat rail system which has a rail and runner system allowing the sliding seats to automatically and simply 'click' into position.
Seats can be easily placed into the floor runners at any location on the rail - they no longer have to be attached onto hooks in the runners - and then slid into their ideal position. The seats can also be tilted or removed easily in a simple operation using the pull hooks on the rear of the seats - making it easy for third row passengers to exit the vehicle themselves.
This is all in addition to the existing outstanding features of the Espace seats - integrated seatbelts for each individual seat (so you can move the seat exactly where you want in and the passengers are still in the best level of safety & comfort) and the almost endless configuration options to allow you to travel however you wish.
Option packs
The Espace Rush Special Edition comes with five seats as standard as some customers use Espace as a large estate car. Two extra seats are an option. Curtain airbags cover the first two rows in the Rush, however if your family is bigger than the average 2.4 children and you need the full seven seats there is the value for money option pack, created exclusively for the Rush, the 'Family Pack'. This includes two additional rear seats and two row three curtain airbags at £600.
The second option pack available on Rush is the 'Driving Pack' which includes Parking proximity sensor, cruise control with speed limiter and tyre pressure monitor all grouped together at just £550.
There are three individual options offered with Espace Rush which are a panoramic fixed glass roof (£750), metallic paint all round including body coloured bumpers and side mouldings (£500) and lateral/ thorax airbags for row two and six rear sunblinds (£450).
New Espace Rush Special Edition is on sale now with the petrol 2.0 16V 140 at £18,995 and the 1.9 dCi 120 at £19,995 offering families all the space, practicality and comfort of a luxury MPV at a value for money price. |
| Renault keeps flyer in the fast lane |
Sean Lamont, one of the rising stars of International rugby, is keeping the adrenalin pumping off the pitch thanks to Renaultsport.
The 24-year-old Scotland International and Northampton Saints winger has taken delivery of a Renaultsport Megane 225 Cup, a car tailor-made for a sportsman whose trademark is his pace and lightning acceleration.
The Cup version offers the best Megane driving experience with its sports-tuned chassis and suspension, and unique Dunlop tyres, whilst also benefiting from the Cup hallmark of removing certain items of equipment to reduce weight, cost and improve the performance. Yet the 225 Cup still has features like air conditioning, CD player and safety features like ESP should conditions change unexpectedly.
Sean was already a Renault fan, owning a Megane Hatch 1.5 dCi, which his fiancee now drives to rugby grounds around the UK to watch Sean in action. The dCi Megane is a great car but the Cup version is something else. The two-litre 225 hp turbocharged engine makes journeys so much fun. I would recommend it to anybody who loves driving.
I'm a keen driver and I love my cars, and the 225 Cup is something special, said Sean on a break from training for the rugby Autumn Internationals at Murrayfield. The ride and handling are exceptional and I love the suspension set-up. You really feel involved with what the car is doing and it makes you confident in the abilities of the car.
So where would Sean play the Renault Megane Cup if it were on the rugby pitch? Well, it's fast and powerful so it would have to be an outside back. Big enough to play on the wing? It's got the grunt, for sure, but who says wingers have to be big...it's sleek, agile and if I'm allowed to borrow Renault's famous Clio description, it's got plenty of Va Va Voom! The Renaultsport Megane is available as a three-door Sport Hatch only and costs £18,600 on the road. |
| Formula One device inspires Renault for child safety |
Over the last 10 years, the chance of surviving a serious crash if you are sat in the front seats of a car has risen dramatically. However, that means that 70% of adult deaths and injuries are now suffered by those seated in the rear and it's not just adults at risk as more often than not it's children that are travelling in the rear seat. Renault, which has become renowned for being one of the leaders in the area of automotive safety, has unveiled several new initiatives to improve rear seat safety, including one inspired by its World Championship winning Formula One team.
Renault's Accidentology department, through a 50-year commitment to research and development of vehicle safety technology, has developed vehicles that make Renault the only car maker to offer best-in-class safety across its whole range, not just the bigger more expensive models. Eight cars from the New Clio up to Espace achieve the maximum five-star crash rating in the EuroNCAP tests and they do this by going beyond the targets others aim for. Part of this high level of safety is provided by components developed by Renault and the new Sleep Safe head restraint is the latest.
'Sleep Safe' for children
The FIA introduced the HANS device to help protect against the high forces a Formula One racing driver can endure in a high speed accident. The extra weight of the crash helmet puts immense strain on the neck of the driver and the HANS device provides additional support to the head and neck, reducing whiplash in a front or rear impact and cushioning the head in a side impact.
A child is not a scale model of an adult as the head is much larger at birth and grows more slowly, meaning that in an impact a child's head puts extra strain on the neck, similar to an F1 driver wearing a helmet. Over 30% of rear seat passengers involved in road accidents in Europe are children under the age of 10 and in popular family cars like the Renault Espace this is obviously much higher. One of the reasons why injuries on children are higher is that they do not fit into the current restraint systems as well as an adult - hence the various types of child seat and booster cushions.
One of the problems for 6-10 year old children is that they are too big for enclosed child seats yet do not reach the adult head restraint properly. Often children also fall asleep and slide out of the seatbelt meaning this vital piece of equipment can not do its job in an accident. Having watched the Renault F1 Team drivers Fernando Alonso and Giancarlo Fisichella putting on their HANS devices before each race, a Renault safety engineer thought this would be the perfect thing to hold a young child upright and in their seatbelt should they fell asleep and also cushion the head in a side impact, reducing the chances of neck injury. The sleep safe head restraint was born and is part of the centre rear head restraint. The two sides of the head restraint flip down to hold the child's head, and therefore body, upright should they fall asleep.
Available first on Espace, the Sleep Safe head restraint is designed for 6-10 year old children and is available as an option for £50. It will become available on other Renault models soon.
Renault's small cars provide unique features in their sector
Renault's two small cars, Modus and New Clio launched last month, provide unique safety features in the small car sector which partly explain why Modus was the first small car ever to gain that coveted five-star EuroNCAP rating and how New Clio was able to join it at the top of the class with another five-star rating.
Seatbelt pre-tensioners take some of the slack out of the belt in the event of an accident, helping to pin the occupant back into the seat, but only Modus and Clio provide this feature for the rear seatbelts. New Clio also provides an undercushion structure to stop occupants submarining out under the seatbelt under the force of the accident. Again a feature found more often for front seat passengers but not those in the rear. |
| Clio III: Car of the year 2006 |
Clio III has been voted Car of the Year 2006 by a jury of 58 motoring journalists from 22 European countries. Clio III scored 256 points, ahead of the VW Passat (251 points) and the Alfa Romeo 159 (212 points). A total of 28 new models were in the running for the Car of the Year 2006 award.
Boasting an expressive design, Clio III has redefined the standards of the small-car segment with record cabin space, top roadholding qualities and a remarkable level of fit and finish. Clio III won five stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests, underlining Renault's lead in safety.
Clio III went on sale across Europe in mid-October. The car has enjoyed an enthusiastic reception and initial sales figures are very encouraging.
This is the sixth time Renault has won the prestigious Car of the Year award. The Renault 16 was the winner in 1966, followed by the Renault 9 in 1982, Clio I in 1991, Megane Scenic in 1997, and Megane II in 2003.
The award augurs well for the Clio III programme as a whole, ahead of the upcoming launch of Clio Renaultsport and new engines, transmissions and trim levels. |
| Ordering opens for Renault's new 5 door Clio |
Whether it be the value for money Authentique entry level version, the sporty and stylish Dynamqiue or the top of the range Initiale, New Clio five door has Twice the va va voom.
By offering more practicality to people who regularly carry rear seat passengers, New Clio five-door is expected to account for 25% of UK Clio sales, appealing to people who don't need quite the versatility and space offered by the Modus mini-MPV.
New Clio five-door accommodates all budgets with the entry level Authentique version starting from £8,995 for the 1.2 16V 75 rising to £15,050 for the luxurious Initiale 1.5 dCi 106.
Better value for money
If Renault's rivals thought that this all new Clio was going to shoot up in price compared to its ultra competitive predecessor then they will have to think again. Prices are up on average by only £200 over the outgoing car even though the bigger, more refined New Clio gains standard features like lateral airbags (and curtain airbags on all except Authentique) and a CD player on all models. The mid range Dynamique 1.4 16V 98 rises only £200 to £10,850. The popular Expression 1.4 16V 98 rises only £55 to £10,550.
Engines
New Clio five-door will launch with a wide choice of engines. Three petrol engines, the 1.2 16V 75, the 1.4 16V 98 and the 1.6 VVT 111. In addition the ever popular and multi-award winning diesel 1.5 dCi engine which comes in three versions, 1.5 dCi 68, 1.5 dCi 86 and the 1.5 dCi 106 with six speed gearbox - a supermini first.
New Clio five door core features
Luxurious and practical New Clio comes with a wide range of core features as standard. They are:
Variable assisted power steering, radio CD with fingertip remote control, multi-function trip computer, internally adjustable door mirrors with driver's blind spot eliminating mirror and air recirculation, tinted windows, double optic headlights, and body coloured bumper inserts.
Five door, five stars
New Clio five-door is already a five star car with New Clio achieving the maximum rating from Euro NCAP independent crash tests earlier this year - of vital importance to the young families who buy five door superminis.
New Clio is the eighth Renault to be awarded five-stars by Euro NCAP, a feat unmatched by any other manufacturer. In the small car segment it is harder to achieve five-stars but it is no surprise that Renault set the benchmark with its Modus mini-MPV which became the first ever five-star small car in 2004 and continues its commitment to safety with its New Clio.
With such a superior safety record, New Clio five-door is naturally packed full of standard safety equipment. Most five-door Clios have six airbags as standard including driver and front passenger auto adaptive airbags and front lateral airbags. Curtain airbags are standard on all versions of the five-door New Clio except the entry level Authentique where they are offered as a £200 option.
In addition, New Clio five-door has as standard ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution), Brake Assist, optional ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), two height adjustable three-point front seatbelts with integrated pretensioners and load limiters as well as three-point rear seatbelts with integrated pretensioners and load limiters on the outer rear seats - the only supermini to have pre-tensioners on the rear seatbelts.
New Clio five-door also achieved four stars in Child passenger protection from Euro NCAP, with ISOFIX mounting points on front passenger seat and outer rear seats with front passenger airbag deactivation, not only does five-door new Clio come packed with Va Va Voom with its style and quality, it also ensures the whole family can travel in comfort, luxury and more importantly, safety.
Your family is safe and secure in New Clio five-door
Renault has ensured a wide range of security features are offered as standard in five-door New Clio. Remote central locking with deadlocking, RAID (Renault Anti-Intruder Device) automatic door locking which locks the doors as soon as the car goes above five mph, ant-drill door locks and locking fuel filler cap and an Insurance approved engine immobiliser all come as standard.
Five trim levels available from launchNew Clio five door is available in five trim levels, Authentique, Expression, Dynamique, Privilege and Initiale. Authentique, Privilege and Initiale are only available on five-door New Clio. |
| UK's greenest car |
In July 2005, Renault's seven-seat Grand Scenic dCi 106 Euro IV was hailed by an independent MSN Cars study as the UK's greenest car, due to the meagre 20.57 grams of carbon dioxide which it emits per kilometre for each of its passengers. Today, with global warming continuing to be hot news, it comes as no surprise that Renault UK has chosen to exhibit the car at the Environmentally Friendly Vehicles Conference being held at the National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham, 10-11 November 2005.
Organised by the Department for Transport as part of the UK's Presidency of the G8 this year, the two-day event will feature a high-profile audience of delegates from home and abroad, debating a range of topics including, measures to develop the environmentally friendly vehicles of the future, plus science and technological developments.
There will also be an exhibition, organised by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders next to the symposium. In it, the fuel-friendly Grand Scenic dCi 106 Euro IV, which emits 144 CO2 g/km and returns an impressive 52.3 miles per gallon on a combined cycle, will feature on the Renault stand to show how fuel-efficient the company's modern diesel common-rail injection (dCi) engines have become, as well as providing an interesting contrast to the other alternatively-powered vehicles on show.
The Grand Scenic dCi 106 Euro IV is available in Dynamique and Expression guise, with prices from £17,320, which is less than a smaller five-seater hybrid for example. For more information on the Grand Scenic and the rest of the Renault range, call 0800 52 51 50, or see the former at the Renault stand, B12, in the Britannia Suite. |
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