Renault Laguna Coupe Dynamique TomTom dCi 150 2dr Car Review - February 2012

Its distinctive exterior styling doesn’t continue inside – most of the cabin interior has been copied straight from the standard Laguna. However, the materials used for the interior have a nice feel to them and are obviously of good quality. The dash design is clear and uncluttered with easy to use controls and switchgear. The seats are supportive and there’s enough adjustment available to find your ideal driving position. Forward visibility is excellent, although due to the narrow design of the rear window, rear visibility may be hampered for some.

This is the least powerful model with a 150bhp 2.0-litre dCi diesel engine, which sprints from 0-62mph in 9.5 seconds with the 6-speed manual gearbox fitted. The 2.0-litre dCi has ample pulling power (236lb-ft of torque) and is capable of a top speed of 131mph. It also gives good average fuel economy of 54.3mpg.

Alternatives include a 205bhp, turbocharged 2.0-litre or a 240bhp, 3.5-litre V6 petrol version and 180bhp, 2.0-litre dCi and 235bhp, 3.0-litre V6 dCi 235 diesels.

The handling of the front-wheel drive Laguna Coupé will never match the balance of a good rear-wheel drive car such as a BMW on a winding open road but it does have excellent body control and maintains its composure when cornering at speed. The coupe’s suspension is better than on the standard Laguna and the shorter wheelbase makes it feel more energetic on the road.

It’s a hushed ride inside the cabin thanks to effective suppression of engine, wind and tyre noise.

Renault is famous for producing cars that have a distinctive look, and the Laguna Coupé is no exception. Its understated sleek styling and elegant lines give it a classy feel rather than outright sporty which makes it very appealing.

The coupé comes well equipped with central locking, stability control, 18-inch alloy wheels, climate control, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, cruise control, rear parking sensors, alarm, immobiliser, CD+MP3 connectivity, Bluetooth and satellite navigation all fitted as standard.

Upgrading to the GT version adds Renault’s 4Control chassis system, distinctive alloy wheels, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, leather seats, and hands-free Renault Keycard.

Comfort levels in the Laguna Coupé are good. While not spacious, four adults will be comfortable and space up front for driver and passenger is really good. Boot space is quite small (423-litres with the rear seats in position) but enough for a pair of small suitcases and golf clubs. Folding the rear seats down increases the available space for occasional larger loads.

Renault’s excellent record for crash safety continues with the Laguna Coupé scoring the maximum five-stars for occupant safety in the EuroNCAP crash-tests. There are eight airbags and stability control fitted as standard on all models.

Security measures include an alarm and immobilizer to protect against theft.

Indications are that reliability on the Laguna Coupe has improved since earlier versions and this is born out by recent positive feedback from owners. Renault provides its three-year, 60,000 mile warranty as normal and regular service intervals are every 18,000 miles.

The Renault Laguna Coupé is excellent value for money. Well priced at £20,805 and loaded with equipment it’s much less expensive than some of its rivals. However, the brand doesn’t conjure up the same perception of prestige and quality for customers as Audi, BMW or Mercedes-Benz.

The Four-cylinder diesel models will be the most economical to run, with good performance and fuel economy being a plus. CO2 emissions are 136g/km putting it in VED band E for Road Tax, and group 30 insurance shouldn’t stretch your budget too much either for this class of car.

Big depreciation is normal on Renaults so the best option may be the GT model with leather upholstery, for resale values.