Volkswagen will complete the development phase of the new Tiguan with a final extreme test in Namibia. During the final acceptance drive on the African continent, the electronic components and chassis of the new SUV are the primary focus of testing. Considering the electronics, a technical highlight on board the Tiguan is of special interest for the testers: the completely new generation radio and navigation system.
This was developed in close cooperation with the most important local Volkswagen operations in Europe, Asia and America. Worldwide development collaboration made it possible for a wider than ever pool of specialized know-how, and also the requirements of all markets, to influence the devices. The top system of the new line, with the designation RNS 510, has a 30 GB hard disk and is controlled with a touch screen. A rear-view camera enables a view behind in this case.
Completely new electronic systems also simplify offroad driving in the Tiguan. The particularly agile and dynamic SUV uses an innovative network of assistance systems with the name of “Offroad Mode”. Just on touch of a switch activates a whole armada of safety features, supporting the driver in a multitude of situations.
Five motors. All of the engine and body versions of the Tiguan have to “swallow” the dust of Namibia in this final test. Volkswagen will be offering the SUV – and this is unique so far – exclusively with charged engines. The TSIs (gasoline) output 110 kW / 150 PS, 125 kW / 170 and 147 kW / 200 PS; and the TDIs (diesel) develop 103 kW / 140 PS and 125 kW / 170 PS.
Two front ends. The two body variants of the Tiguan differ primarily in their front ends. The “Trend & Fun” and “Sport & Style” versions are designed for a maximum entry angle of 18 degrees in front. The “Track & Field” Tiguan that is tuned even more for offroad duty can assume entry angles of up to 28 degrees with its front end.
During the testing program in Africa, as however already mentioned, the emphasis is less on engines and entry angles than on final checking of the electronics and chassis.
Saturday, June 9, 2007
Volkswagen Tiguan prototype
Alfa 8C Competizione in UK debut
Car enthusiasts and Alfisti wanting to be among the first to view an Alfa 8C Competizione in the UK should head to this year’s Canary Wharf Motorexpo (11-17 June), where this remarkable and much coveted Alfa Romeo sportscar makes its UK public debut. Blessed with head-turning good looks and dramatic performance, all 500 of this limited edition model were snapped up long before the first customer cars turned a wheel, including the 42 examples destined for UK owners early next year.
Priced at close to £110,000, the all-carbon-fibre 450 bhp 4.7 litre V8 powered two-seater is expected to be the star of Motorexpo, before it goes on to make its mark on the Alfa Romeo stand at the Goodwood Festival of Speed later this month (22-24 June).
Managing Director of Alfa Romeo UK, Christopher Nicoll, says: “This is a perfect example of the new direction for Alfa Romeo on the international stage. The fact that we long ago sold our UK allocation is testament to our rich heritage of producing emotive and exotic performance cars.”
Alfa Romeo will also showcase its brand new Alfa 159 TI at Motorexpo. The TI designation comprises a unique body kit, lowered sports suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, leather sports seats, aluminium sports pedals and a leather-clad sports steering wheel.
Meanwhile, Alfa Romeo’s widely acclaimed Spider convertible will be in attendance to tempt sun worshippers.
Finally, Festival-goers visiting Goodwood this year can look forward to a wide selection of historic Alfa models. In true Goodwood style, Alfa Romeo will be celebrating its long lineage of beautiful high performance cars with the inclusion of classics including the Alfa P2 Gran Premio and Tipo B, plus the Alfa 33 Daytona.
Friday, June 8, 2007
Audi RS 4 Cabriolet coming to U.S. for 2008
Audi of America, Inc. announced today that the RS 4 Cabriolet model will come to U.S. showrooms as a 2008 model, and the RS 4 sedan will have new features and option packages. Approximately 300 of the limited-production RS 4 Cabriolets will be sold in the U.S. The RS 4 Cabriolet models will arrive in fall of 2007. Pricing and equipment for the 2008 RS 4 Cabriolet will be announced at a later date.
The RS 4 Cabriolet shares the same high-revving 4.2 V8 FSI engine found in the RS 4 sedan. It produces 420 hp at 7,800 rpm and 317 ft-lbs. of torque at 5,500 rpm. Like the sedan, the Cabriolet will only be available with a six-speed manual and quattro® all-wheel drive featuring the asymmetrical dynamic torque split. Like the sedan, the Cabriolet will have 19” RS 4-style alloy wheels with 255/35/19 performance tires, a four-link front and trapezoidal-link rear sport-tuned suspension with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC), and 14.4” front and 12.8” rear brake rotors.
The RS 4 sedan also gets some new and unique features for 2008. Two new option packages, the Titanium package and Audi exclusive package, will be available. The $750 Titanium package consists of titanium colored 19” RS 4-style alloy wheels, black front grille, black side window moldings, black interior headliner, and piano black interior trim. The $3,800 Audi exclusive package has Crimson red leather seat centers (black leather side bolsters and head rests) and door trim, contrasting red seat piping, red stitching on the shift boot and steering wheel, piano black interior trim, carpeted floor mats with RS 4 logo and contrasting piping, and Audi exclusive badging. Sirius satellite radio and Bluetooth will become standard equipment on the RS 4 sedan.
Nissan Releases March
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has launched a revised version of the popular March, which goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide. The enhancements to the new March include exterior and interior refinements, new user-friendly features such as Intelligent Key, an available Aero Style Package and a special "Plus navi HDD" model.
A Refined Exterior and Interior
Among the many refinements made to the March, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this model year, are a restyled front end appearance with revised headlamp and grille designs, as well as expanded application of the top-line front bumper specification.
The March comes in a selection of 12 attractive body colors, including four all-new colors: Sakura Pearl Metallic, Chamomile Green Pearl Metallic, Framboise Red Pearl (two-stage) and Pacific Blue Pearl Metallic. In conjunction with this minor model change, additional body colors have been adopted for the 12SR and 15SR-A*1 models.
March's interior features a new trim color, Cacao, which creates a rich and stylish ambience. Additionally, a redesigned meter cluster (4-speed AT models only) now features a carbon-like silver color, which combines with the new silver-embellished center console to give the interior a stylish design. Other enhancements include adoption of newly designed seat and door trim fabric and a driver's seat armrest (E and G models).
Nissan's Intelligent Key system and body-colored door handles have been added to the list of standard features (E models), while steering wheel controls have been added to E and G models. The new March also adds an audio system auxiliary port for connecting digital audio players or other portable music device (excluding the 12B and SR models).
"Plus navi HDD" Special Specification Model
Based on the March 12S and 14S FOUR, the new "Plus navi HDD" model is designed to provide exceptional value. The centerpiece of this new model is an exclusive HDD-based navigation system featuring a high-speed, large-capacity 30-gigabyte hard disk drive. The "Plus navi HDD" model also adds a leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel, among other special appointments.
The revised March model lineup includes two new optional packages: a factory-installed Aero Style Package (available on all models except the 12B and SR versions) and a factory-installed Square Interior Package (available on the 12E, 15E and 14E FOUR).
Sales Target and Pricing
The sales target for the new March is 3,000 units/month, with pricing ranging from 1,103,550 yen to 1,782,900 yen, including consumption tax.
The March is being marketed under the "SHIFT_happiness" tagline.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
New GM's Opel Corsa GSi
Barcelona Motor Show: GM unveils Opel Corsa GSi
New Opel Corsa GSi: Powerful Performance and Subtle Sportiness
* 150 hp turbo gasoline engine available for three and five-door models
* Legendary GSi concept receives a modern update
Rüsselsheim. The theme of the new Opel Corsa GSi is 'more substance than show'. In contrast to the Opel Corsa OPC, which was launched a few months ago, the new GSi radiates subtle sportiness rather than uncompromising high-performance, and will be unveiled at the Barcelona Motor Show (June 7 - 17, 2007). The GSi's powerful 1.6 ECOTEC turbo engine produces 110 kW/150 hp at 5000 rpm, positioning the new sporty model between the Corsa Sport 1.7 CDTI (125 hp) and the high-performance Corsa OPC (192 hp).
"We're pleased to launch another model, with the legendary GSi heritage. Opel fans know just what the three letters GSi stand for: plenty of fun, good value for money and no compromises in everyday use or driving conditions," explains Alain Visser, Executive Director European Marketing Opel. "The Corsa GSi combines the virtues of its compact dimensions with impressive performance over the entire rpm range, which actually positions the model in the next higher car class." The addition of the GSi to the Corsa model line expands the range to five gasoline and three diesel variants with a performance spectrum of 60 to 192 hp. Over 320.000 new Corsas have been sold across Europe since the fourth-generation's launch in October 2006.
Corsa GSi customers have the choice of a three or five-door variant. Powered by the 1.6-liter turbo gasoline engine, the new Corsa has a top speed of 210 km/h and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds. The Electric Power Steering (EPS) with variable progressive feedback curve and lowered sport chassis (front: 18 mm, rear: 15 mm) with ESP as standard ensure agile handling.
The Corsa GSi's styling is also subtly sporty, with exterior modifications such as a front spoiler lip, rear apron lip and spoiler, color-keyed side sills, chrome sport tailpipe and 17-inch alloy wheels. The interior's dynamic ambience is emphasized by the comfortable, charcoal/red upholstered sport seats with high side support, a leather steering wheel with red inserts, red safety belts and aluminum-style pedals.
###
LEGENDARY SRi BADGE RETURNS TO CORSA RANGE
* New performance version of award-winning Corsa
* Powered by new 150PS turbo 1.6-litre engine or 125PS 1.7 diesel
* Available with three or five doors, on sale in September
Hot on the heels of the Corsa VXR, Vauxhall has revealed that its legendary SRi badge is to return on another performance version of the new Corsa.
Set to reach showrooms in September as either a three-door or a five-door, the Corsa SRi is designed to appeal to buyers who don't need all the performance of the VXR but still appreciate style and sharp driving dynamics.
Petrol versions are powered by a new detuned 150PS version of the turbocharged engine found in Corsa VXR, taking the SRi from 0-60mph in just 7.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 130mph.
The power is kept in check by a specially developed sports chassis, lowered by 18mm at the front and 15mm at the rear and featuring ESP as standard. The power steering also features variable progressive feedback, meaning the weight of the steering adjusts electronically to keep the driver well informed at all times.
For those buyers wanting more economy a diesel will also be offered, using the 1.7-litre CDTi with 125PS. As you'd expect from a car wearing the SRi badge, it offers impressive performance, accelerating from 0-60mph in 9.3 seconds, going on to a top speed of 121 mph and yet achieves an average of 58.9 mpg.
Purposeful looks are provided by a front spoiler, deep body-coloured side sills, 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome sports exhaust pipe and subtle tailgate spoiler. Inside, red-detailed sports seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel with red inserts, alloy pedals and red seatbelts further set the performance tone.
Corsa SRi is available to order from 23 June, prices will be announced later this month and the first cars will arrive at retailers in September.
Source: GM
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Rolls-Royce Phantom Silver Limited Edition
PHANTOM SILVER MARKS 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF SILVER GHOST
Rolls-Royce has produced a limited edition, named Phantom Silver, to mark the 100 th anniversary of the Silver Ghost. The special model, of which only 25 will be made, pays homage to one of the most famous automotive names of all time.
First built in 1906, specifically to publicise the then new Rolls-Royce 40/50 h.p. six-cylinder model, the Silver Ghost established the Rolls-Royce reputation for reliability and engineering excellence. The name was coined in 1907 by Rolls-Royce Managing Director, Claude Johnson, by virtue of its silver coachwork and its 'extraordinary stealthiness'. The original Silver Ghost, registered AX-201, competed in the 1907 Scottish Reliability Trial, for which it won the gold medal in its class for hill climbing speed and reliability. The Silver Ghost went on in that year to break the world record for a non-stop motor run, covering a London to Glasgow route 27 times, with mileage totaling 14,371 miles.
More than 6,000 "Silver Ghosts" were built between 1907 and 1925, and sold in every corner of the world. The majority are still in good running order.
In tribute to the specifications of the original, the Phantom Silver is finished in a new Bespoke paint, Metallic Ghost Silver. The 21-inch wheels have chrome centres and on top of the grille sits a hallmarked solid silver Spirit of Ecstasy. Inside, Rose Leaf or Crème Light leather is accompanied by seat piping and headrests embroidered with the Rolls-Royce interlinked RR badge. Straight grained Santos Palissander wood veneer is used throughout. The same veneer is also used on a specially designed presentation box that houses the key, two solid silver key fobs and a specially commissioned solid silver Conway Stewart fountain pen.
Rolls-Royce Chairman and Chief Executive, Ian Robertson, said, "The Silver Ghost is such a significant model in the history of Rolls-Royce that we felt marking its 100 th anniversary was entirely fitting. Its extraordinary reliability, refinement, comfort and virtually silent running were as important to Rolls-Royce in 1907 as they are today."
Phantom Silver specification
• Bespoke Ghost Silver paintwork
• 21-inch alloy wheels chrome centre caps
• Roseleaf or Crème Light leather interior trim
• Santos Palissander veneered wood
• Coolbox
• Solid silver and enamel Conway Stewart pen
• Solid silver key fob* Solid silver Spirit of Ecstasy
• Bespoke drinks holder
• Bespoke champagne flutes and tumblers detailed with silver
• White instrument dials
• Bespoke clock matched to instrument dials
• Phantom Silver tread plates
Monday, June 4, 2007
2008 Renault Laguna
New Laguna, for driving pleasure and peace of mind
New Laguna's refined lines have been carefully crafted to create a dynamic, fluid design that effortlessly underpins the model's status as a true Grand Tourer.
Thanks to its impeccable handling and broad range of powertrain packages, New Laguna guarantees genuine driving pleasure:
• Impeccable handling New Laguna's responsive chassis stands out as one of the best on the market in terms of both steering precision and control of cornering roll thanks essentially to the new model's closer-ratio steering and uprated suspension. Significant work has also gone into the tuning of its damping performance to ensure even greater driving pleasure and comfort.
• A broad range of powertrain packages The New Laguna line-up features the brand's familiar engines, including the 130 and 175hp versions of the 2.0 dCi (96/127kW) which are particularly responsive and punchy when mated to Renault's AJO automatic transmission. Meanwhile, the economical and environmentally-respectful 1.5 dCi 110hp (81kW) combines remarkable performance with even lower fuel consumption, returning a frugal 5.1 litres/100km (equivalent to 136g of CO2/km) to offer one of the segment's most attractive compromises between performance, fuel economy and emissions. Developed jointly by Renault and Nissan, the smooth, responsive 145hp (103.4kW) 2.0 16V petrol engine ensures a particularly high level of acoustic comfort.
The following features ensure peace of mind for all New Laguna occupants:
• Class-leading active and passive safety New Laguna benefits from Renault's extensive experience in the field of safety and special attention has been paid to the new car's side impact protection performance. Equipment includes an exclusive new-generation double lateral airbag (thorax + pelvis) which is based on a twin-chamber, dual pressure system triggered by two sensors located in the front door and B-pillar. A specific algorithm adjusts the system's deployment time as a function of the force of the impact. On the active safety front, New Laguna's brakes are amongst the most fade-resistant on the market.
• Optimised comfort In addition to its finely-tuned suspension, New Laguna offers a degree of acoustic comfort that sets new standards in its segment, thanks notably to more effective soundproofing between the engine compartment and cabin. Meanwhile, the particularly demanding brief relating to thermal comfort has led to the introduction of a new, externally-controlled, high capacity compressor that is capable of producing cold air particularly quickly.
• Extremely practical It is now easier than ever to take in the information displayed on the dashboard, while careful attention has also been paid to drive-station ergonomics. A long list of practical features, including parking brake assist and the second-generation hands-free card, further contribute to taking the stress out of day-to-day motoring. Last but by no means least, the Estate version is equipped with a system that allows a flat boot-floor to be obtained at the push of a button.
From the design and validation phases through to production and servicing, New Laguna has been engineered for robustness and reliability:
One of the chief pledges of the Renault Commitment 2009 plan concerned New Laguna directly, namely the target for the new model to rank among the top three cars in its segment in terms of product and service quality. In addition to the more stringent design and production processes that have been put into place, more than 120 New Lagunas were subjected to the equivalent of six million kilometres of testing in the most gruelling climatic and road conditions imaginable.
New Laguna rivals with the best in its segment regarding running, repair and servicing costs:
• This has notably been achieved thanks to its 110hp (81kW) and 150hp (110kW) dCi diesel engines which return fuel consumption of 5.1 litres/100km and 6.0 litres/100km respectively, equivalent to 136g and 158g of CO2/km. • As one of the models covered by the Renault eco² line – an appellation conceived as a hallmark for the range's economical and ecologically-sound vehicles – a version of New Laguna will be available that emits just 136g of CO2/km and incorporates a high 35kg of recycled plastic. To further optimize fuel consumption, New Laguna tips the scales at an average 15kg less than its predecessor.
New Laguna will be unveiled to the public at September's Frankfurt Motor Show and is scheduled to go on sale from October 2007.
Grand Tourer refinement
Today sees the wraps come off New Laguna and its elegant, fluid, dynamic exterior styling. The meticulous attention that has been paid to the quality of the materials employed and its high standard of fit and finish reflect the extensive work that has gone into perceived quality both on the outside as well as in the cabin.
Elegant, fluid, dynamic lines
New Laguna's styling epitomizes the quest for dynamism and driving pleasure that prevailed throughout its design and development. Its front end features sweeping headlamps, a long, steeply-raked bonnet and large grille that combine to hint at a range of satisfying powerplants. At 4.69 metres in length, New Laguna's naturally balanced proportions ensure a dynamic stance, while the plunging shoulder line contributes to the new model's assertive, elegant looks. Chrome side window surrounds provide an extra touch of status-enhancing class and the distinctive sills ensure that the car sits squarely on its 16- to 18inch alloy wheels. The waistline crease of the Saloon version extends across the boot and underneath the LED rear lights which give the car a distinctive night-time lighting signature. The higher performance versions feature twin chrome exhaust tailpipes, a tell-tale sign of the presence of a pedigree powerplant at the other end of the car...
A distinctive Estate with real personality
The dynamic, modern styling of the Estate version of New Laguna features a steeply-raked rear screen, while the generous glazed area of the rearmost side windows further accentuates the newcomer's assertive looks. Ensuring a functional and practical interior was another key priority, as can be seen by the numerous new innovative stowage solutions. Meanwhile, the exemplary travelling comfort is complemented by the ability to create a perfectly flat boot-floor at the touch of a button.
A status-enhancing interior
New Laguna's elegant exterior looks are echoed by the refined finish of the cabin which features a blend of high-grade materials that exude an inescapable sense of quality and comfort. The enveloping dashboard makes an active contribution to this upper-range ambience, while the design and location of the controls and displays have been ergonomically tailored to facilitate driving. Depending on trim level, the centre console houses the controls for the parking brake assist and cruise control/speed limiter, as well as for the navigation and hands-free telephone functions of the Carminat Navigation and Communication system. The Initiale trim level aims to appeal to the broadest possible clientele thanks to its wood and leather finish and is available in a choice of either dark charcoal or a lighter hue. The Alcantara leather upholstery of Dynamique versions combines with a metallic ambience. The unmistakably sporty feel of the dark charcoal interior of Dynamique models is further reinforced by the flat-section steering wheel and the seats' more pronounced lateral support.
Driving pleasure
Everything about New Laguna has been carefully thought through to guarantee genuine driving pleasure that combines benchmark handling and first class dynamic performance. Its carefully engineered chassis and precise, responsive steering enable drivers to profit fully from the new car's contained weight and comprehensive range of powertrain packages that deliver both performance and fuel economy.
A selection of advanced engines and transmissions
New Laguna is available with a broad choice of powerplants, all mated to six-speed transmissions. Each one features as one of the best in its category in terms of driving comfort and fuel consumption performance. The petrol range will be built up gradually, beginning with the dynamic, smooth and quiet-running 2.0 16V (M4R). Jointly-developed by Renault and Nissan, this 145hp (103.4kW) unit features punch and torque from very low revs, plus feisty performance at higher engine speeds and remarkable acoustic comfort across the full rev-band. The petrol engine range also features the 170hp (125kW) 2.0 16V Turbo which is coupled to a six-speed Proactive automatic transmission. The diesel range is based on two market benchmarks: the 1.5 dCi, which delivers 110hp (81kW) and strikes the segment's best balance between performance and fuel consumption. With CO2 emissions of just 136g/km, its also qualifies for 'eco-leader' status. Meanwhile, the 2.0 dCi block is available in a choice of three versions (130hp, 150hp and 175hp; respectively 96, 110 and 127kW), the second of which will be available with six-speed Proactive automatic transmission from launch. Equipped with a low inertia, variable geometry turbo and ultra-fast glow plugs, this version truly comes into its own under the bonnet of New Laguna. Other engines will be added to the catalogue shortly after the model's launch to produce a comprehensive range capable of meeting the needs of all the different markets in which the model is marketed. Within the framework of the Renault Commitment 2009 plan, New Laguna is also poised to make a key contribution to Renault's eco² environmental drive thanks to engines that already comply with the forthcoming Euro5 legislation.
A precise, responsive chassis
New Laguna's chassis features among the very best in its segment. Engineered by Renault to surpass the acclaimed dynamic performance of its predecessor, its steering precision and cornering roll control are sure to satisfy the most exacting drivers. Development focused on New Laguna's specific body-roll with front and rear suspension stiffness uprated by 20 and 50%, respectively, plus higher performance anti-roll bars. For enhanced driving pleasure along twisty roads, New Laguna also features closer-ratio steering, as well as unrivalled filtering of the surface's irregularities and an even greater sense of contact with the road. At the same time, specific work was carried out on the dampers to ensure a remarkably comfortable ride. Indeed, like its forebear, New Laguna continues to figure among the very best in terms of comfort and safety, while the new model's weight has been carefully contained, since it is the first new Renault to be lighter than its predecessor after shedding an average 15kg across the range.
Tranquillity and peace of mind
New Laguna's dynamic performance ensures a reassuring ride for all occupants along with highest-standard comfort and safety, plus first class thermal comfort. Particular attention has been paid, too, to New Laguna's acoustics which – notably on the diesel versions – stand out as the benchmark in the car's segment.
The very best of Renault's active and passive safety expertise
New Laguna has benefited extensively from Renault's acclaimed expertise in the realms of both active and passive safety. In addition to the outstanding handling afforded by its chassis, New Laguna's braking performance puts it at the very top end of its class, especially with regard to its hot performance test results (total stopping distance measured over ten consecutive stops from 100kph to standstill). New generation ABS technology with ESP and electronic Emergency Brake Assist is combined with a new electro-hydraulic control unit. On the passive safety front, Renault has developed several solutions based on accident research and real-life situations, which ensure a further-reaching and more effective approach to the issue of occupant safety. A much more stringent brief has led to New Laguna being equipped with latest-generation features such as twin-chamber, dual pressure airbags and dualpretensioner seatbelts. The most spectacular progress, however, has been achieved in the domain of protection against side impact, a major cause of accident fatalities. Side impact protection has been improved thanks to the car's advanced electronic architecture, which has evolved to permit occupant protection systems to be triggered sooner. Based on two sensors positioned in the front door and in the B-post, a specific algorithm automatically adjusts the protection systems' deployment as a function of the impact's force. This set-up is combined with a new-generation, double-side airbag that protects both the thorax and the pelvic area.
Practical and extremely comfortable
Three factors have led to making New Laguna the most silent-running Saloon in its segment: reduced engine-generated noise, especially at low revs, the dampening of road-induced noise and, above all, work on combating wind noise at high speeds. New Laguna is also the first Renault model to benefit from the findings of a series of customer surveys conducted in 2001 and 2002 regarding thermal comfort. A better understanding of customer expectations, and the development of a new air-conditioning unit in association with Nissan for the American market have combined to ensure class-leading performance in this domain. The adoption of an externally-controlled, high-capacity compressor also means that cool air can be produced quickly while calling on the car's air-conditioning only as required to curb fuel consumption. On those markets where it has been assessed, New Laguna's air-conditioning system ranks among the very best systems available. In terms of heating, cabin temperature is raised more swiftly thanks to the powerful electrical resistors employed on the diesel versions. The air-conditioning controls feature an innovative new "Soft-Auto-Fast" triple-action system and are intuitively positioned between the air vents. The location of all the controls on the new dashboard and the way information is displayed have also been revised with a view to further facilitating the task of driving.
Dialled-in reliability and strength
With quality an overriding factor throughout New Laguna's design and development phases, the accent was placed very much on strength and reliability. The new model is targeted to rank among the top three cars in its segment in terms of product and service quality and has accordingly sought to build on the progress achieved on the quality front on other recent vehicles. This work not only extended from its original design to production sign-off, but also covered production itself and servicing.
The following four phases in the development of New Laguna were subject to particularly close scrutiny:
-Design: The functional tests that proved so successful in the case of Modus and Clio were stepped up for New Laguna. Three electronic integration platforms reproducing the vehicle's electrical and electronic architecture allowed all possible combinations to be simulated and ensure they functioned without failure. Experience gained solving problems encountered on previous models – and notably Laguna, either during the warranty period or during roadworthiness inspections – has been fully exploited. New Laguna is also the first vehicle to have been put through its paces in the course of its development at the Electro-Magnetic Compatibility unit which was inaugurated at the Aubevoye Technical Centre in France at the beginning of 2006. Meanwhile, New Laguna's robust design also took servicing and repair requirements very much onboard. -Validation: More than 120 New Lagunas were put through their paces in a far-reaching series of test track, bench and on-road validation tests over the equivalent of more than 6 million kilometres prior to the model's launch. New Laguna was discretely road-tested across the world with a view to evaluating its capacity to resist such extreme environments as Argentina, Russia, Malaysia and Australia. This specifically-tailored programme saw the vehicle tackle severe climates and road conditions ranging from searing heat, humidity, dust, mud, extreme cold, very high speeds, driving at altitude, very rough roads, etc. Every kilometre covered in these conditions was estimated to be equivalent to three kilometres of normal use. - Production: every aspect of the production process has been thought through to deliver the targeted results. Active discussion began at a very early stage to ensure that the best of existing Renault and Nissan production practices were implemented. This concerted approach has led to assembly operations across the complete production cycle at the Sandouville factory in France becoming even more efficient and better controlled. It has involved optimizing work stations and reconfiguring flows, introducing more stringent inspection processes and ensuring that vehicles are more effectively protected while in the factory. Static and dynamic tests, as well as electronic diagnostics are performed on each and every vehicle that leaves the plant. - Servicing: efforts geared toward optimising New Laguna's quality do not end once the car has left the factory. The notions of servicing and reparability were taken onboard from the very first computer-simulated models of the new car. Prototype workshops were set up to evaluate and test diagnostics tools and repair procedures. Meanwhile, specific staff training programmes have been introduced, including courses in the use of the Alliance CLIP set which will be extended throughout the network, worldwide. Other initiatives in this sense include specific sales and technical training using e-learning techniques. Already in 2006, the quality of service improved from 71 to 75% of customers reporting to be either satisfied or very satisfied. New Laguna will also reap the benefits of the implementation of the Renault Excellence Plan (PER4) which targets customer satisfaction both at the point of sale and regarding after-sales service. The promise of low running costs In addition to being affordable, New Laguna has been designed to be competitive with regard to running costs, too. The new car's attractive running, servicing and repair costs rank it among the best in its segment, thanks notably to its 110hp (81kW) and dCi 150hp (110kW) powerplants.
The promise of low running costs
The constraint of ensuring attractive purchase, running and servicing costs for all category types was imposed on Renault's engineering and development staff. The concept of Total Cost of Ownership was chosen to serve as a yardstick since it takes into account all the financial factors associated with keeping a vehicle (depreciation and residual value), running costs (e.g. fuel duties) and the budget relating to scheduled servicing (tyre wear, servicing, etc.). Regarding residual value, which is a function of the model's quality and image, New Laguna has several arguments in its favour in terms of real and perceived quality, as well as its performance on the road. On the running costs front, New Laguna will be highly competitive. Available alongside the 2.0 dCi 150hp (110kW) engine, the dCi 110hp version stands out as a particularly attractive alternative for both private and professional users. Its running and repair costs have been carefully contained regarding both servicing intervals and repair times.
The 1.5 dCi: the market's indisputable eco-leader
Best in its class on New Laguna, this 110hp (81kW) diesel engine sips a mere 5.1 litres of fuel per 100km (equivalent to CO2 emissions of 136g/km), while oil changes are only necessary every 30,000km. This powerful, reliable powerplant is suitable for the toughest of uses, and particularly for high mileage customers.
The 2.0 dCi: a landmark in driving pleasure, reliability and economy
A leader in the realms of performance and driving pleasure, this 150hp (110kW) engine has been carefully tuned to match the performance characteristics of New Laguna's chassis. Given the vehicle's performance characteristics, the Saloon version's combined cycle fuel consumption is an extremely competitive 6 litres/100km, equivalent to 158g of CO2/km. Its timing chain no longer needs replacing and, like the 1.5 dCi version, it offers similarly longer service intervals and complies with forthcoming Euro5 legislation.
An environmentally-respectful design
The Renault eco² appellation is a hallmark of Renault's environmental policy and applies to vehicles in its range that comply with specific ecological and economical criteria. Renault eco² vehicles must be manufactured in an ISO 14001-certified factory, have CO2 emissions of less than 140g/km (or else run on either E85 bioethanol or B30 biodiesel) and at least 5% of the plastics they contain must be sourced from recycling. The 110hp diesel-powered New Laguna meets all the conditions required to qualify for the Renault eco² appellation. In addition to being 85% recyclable and 95% re-usable in accordance with the quotas anticipated for 2015, it contains more than 35kg of recycled plastic and also more than 15kg of renewable materials.
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