Renault Laguna GT Shows Up in Geneva

Press Release

Dynamic control logic

Developed jointly by Renault and Renault Sport Technologies, the Active Drive chassis with four-wheel steering implements electronic control of vehicle dynamics. A sensor on the steering column sends
steering wheel angle information via the CAN network to the 4WD control unit, located behind the rear axle. The 4WD control unit also inputs vehicle speed from the ESP/ABS unit. And it tracks steering wheel
angle information to detect sharp steering wheel movements symptomatic of a sports driving style or avoidance situation. All these parameters are analysed to determine the required rear-wheel turn angle,
which is implemented by means of an electric actuator on the rear axle. Dynamic vehicle behaviour is precisely modelled to set the ideal vehicle trajectory at each instant, on the basis of the driver’s input and
the actual situation of the vehicle. The controller and electric actuator are supplied by Aisin, a Japanese equipment supplier reputed for its experience in four-wheel steering systems.

High-performance engines

The diesel version of Renault Laguna GT is powered by a 2.0 dCi engine, best-in-class for performance, driveability and acoustics. In this implementation, it yields exceptional peak power of 180hp (131kW) at
3,750rpm. Peak torque of 400Nm is available from 2,000rpm, for prompt, consistent, sustained build-up through to 5,000 rpm. A reduced-inertia variable-nozzle turbocharger enhances dynamic response at low
revs to achieve superlative performance: 29.6 seconds for the 1,000m standing start, and 0 to 100kph in 8.5 seconds. This new unit is fitted with a particulate filter and EGR valve with enhanced cooling, which
makes intense driving pleasure perfectly consistent with environmental protection: mixed-cycle fuel consumption is just 6.5 litres/100km, which translates into CO2 emissions of just 172g/km. With its ultrafast glow plugs, the 180hp 2.0 dCi unit roars into action instantly when the Start button is pressed, even in conditions of extreme cold (down to -23°C). The petrol version of Renault Laguna GT is powered by a sports version (205hp/150kW at 5,000rpm and 300Nm from 3,000rpm) of the two-litre 16-valve unit, derived from Renault Sport technology as featured on Mégane RS, and specifically optimized for Renault Laguna GT, to yield the best in performance, handling and intense driving pleasure. It is superbly versatile, combining velvet smoothness with astonishingly crisp response, ideal for sports usage. Design features such as the special air-intake system and twin-scroll turbo ensure the rev-counter leaps forward at the slightest touch of the throttle. Renault Laguna GT 2.0T accelerates from 0 to 100kph in 7.8 seconds and takes 28s to cover 1,000
metres from standstill. Yet fuel consumption is a very reasonable 8.2 litres/100km, which makes for CO2 emissions of just 194g/km.

Distinctive GT styling

With its distinctive streamlined profile, Renault Laguna GT expresses an elegance that goes much further than sporting aptitude alone. The long plunging bonnet terminates in a highly assertive front-end with a
radiator grille characteristic of the most powerful Renaults. Purposeful-looking lateral air-intakes suggest an insatiable appetite for the open road, corroborated by the wise gaze of the headlamps against the neat
black background. Renault Laguna GT is fitted with generously sized 225/45 18-inch special Bridgestone Potenza tyres, a Formula One spin-off, mounted on special Celsium wheels. The highly efficacious
braking system uses 320mm diameter discs at the front and 300mm discs at the rear. Aerodynamic sills reflect the promise of the Active Drive chassis extend from the front of the car to the characteristic
straight-section twin tailpipe at the rear. Sports tourer attributes run through to every last detail, such as the gloss black wing mirrors and smoked rear lamp units.

Sports interior

As well as appearing on the outside centre pillar, the exclusive GT logo is also embossed on the light grey alcantara of the front seatbacks. As on all Renault Laguna models, the interior design exudes a most impressive sense of comfort and quality, in all seats. Sports design details abound, highlighting the exclusive capacities of the GT version: cross-drilled aluminium pedal, sports gearshift lever knob, dark
charcoal leather upholstery with reinforced lateral support and special steering wheel. Extreme attention has been paid to materials and finish, true to the car’s unwavering commitment to pure motoring pleasure.
GT version with three-year (or 150,000 km) warranty Renault Laguna GT is available in hatchback and estate forms, both of which occupy the top-end of the Laguna range in terms of technology and engines. With its Active Drive chassis and specific powerplants, this is a car for demanding, image-conscious motorists. Yet it is remarkably affordable for a vehicle with this spectrum of features. Renault Laguna GT takes up a unique position on the sports saloon market, offering a sensational driving experience with total peace of mind.

Renault Laguna GT will be unveiled at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. The international media test-drive programme begins on March20, followed by a staggered sales release schedule for most European
countries starting mid-spring.