LARGE FAMILY CARS:The previous model Laguna had shockingly poor reliability, but Renault has worked hard to put these problems right with the new one.
Price:€27,040 - €41,950
NCAP Crash Test:
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engines:1.6, 2.0, 1.5D and 2.0D litre
Trim levels:Royale, Dynamique, Privilege, GT
Quality and reliability:
The previous model Laguna had shockingly poor reliability, but Renault has worked hard to put these problems right with the new one.
They spent particular time on the electronics, which were a problem before.
Overall, the car feels much better put together with greatly improved interior quality in particular.
Performance:
The 1.6-litre petrol version is a little anaemic, taking 11.7 seconds to get to 100km/h. The 100bhp 1.5-litre diesel is the main contender, and while it is slower to 100km/h it has more torque. Move up the range and there is a 2.0-litre diesel with 150bhp and 340Nm of torque and a 205bhp 2.0-litre turbo at the top of the range.
At the wheel:
Better to drive than before, which isn't a huge achievement but it's now a pretty good car to drive. It is comfortable and fairly agile too.
Steering is better than before too, thanks to a stiffer steering rack.
Space and comfort:
Renault has done a super job in improving the ride quality and comfort of the latest Laguna, and it now feels really refined. The 462 litre boot capacity is generous, and there is adequate head and legroom in the rear.
Safety:
Hard to fault in this regard. Scored five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests and comes loaded with safety kit including ABS with EBS, Electronic Stability Programme and six airbags.
Running costs and depreciation:
Depreciation has been an issue with the Laguna, with the last model suffering very badly. Some 2008 examples of the new model retail at €19,000 which means it has lost 30 per cent of its value in less than 12 months. Diesel engines are fuel-efficient, and cheap to run.
THE CONCLUSIONS:
For:loaded with safety kit, very comfortable, good equipment list, good diesels
Against:potential for depreciation
Irish Times verdict:big improvement on the old model and a real contender now
Best buy:1.5 dCi Dynamique