Renault issued the following press release:
Exactly two years after its introduction, Laguna II takes on a new look and offers new engines and technical features, as well as brand-new trim materials and body colours.
A new boost for unequalled driving enjoyment
From the beginning of 2003, Renault is introducing a new version of Laguna II powered by a 4-cylinder 2.0 16V engine driving through a 6- speed manual transmission. This engine is a derivative of that which already powers Vel Satis and Avantime. While it develops the same comfortable power output of 165hp at 5,000rpm, this version benefits from a higher maximum torque of 270Nm at 3,250rpm (+8%) instead of 250Nm, thus providing better response. With its optimized power and torque curves, the Laguna II 2.0T provides easy driving at low speeds. Remember that its twin-scroll turbocharger allows efficiency to be increased while limiting the re-aspiration of exhaust gases. For the sake of quietness, a twin-mass damping flywheel reduces drivetrain noise. The conservative valve timing, together with a special timing belt tensioner, further reduce noise. With this new engine, Laguna II is able to offer the same level of performance as a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine but with 15% to 20% lower fuel consumption in the mixed European cycle. The hatchback thus achieves a maximum speed of 218kph (on a circuit) and covers a kilometre from a standing start in 29.4sec, while consuming only 8.2 litres/100km in the complete cycle. Before the end of the year, this new powertrain will also be offered with the 5-speed Proactive automatic transmission with flick-shift selection. It should be noted also that the 2.0 T version is equipped with the same uprated suspension as the 3.0 V6 and 2.2 dCi versions. This 2.0 T version takes the form of a special package which takes the ’Dynamique’ version as its starting point and adds extra features. Its special interior trim is a harmonious blend of leather and alcantara, and it is equipped with new 17-inch ’Luxor’ wheels, a new Storm Blue body colour, and the option of a Carminat Guidance system with an active-matrix monochrome display replacing the radio display. During 2003 this navigation system will take traffic information into account when calculating the optimum route according to conditions. In addition to its guidance function, it integrates a 4x30W radio system incorporating two independent tuners. This enables it to replay or to search for a new station without interrupting the sound. A rear spoiler (on the hatchback) and Xenon headlamps complete the specification of this version. — 2005 Geneva International Motor Show.
Laguna II 2.2 dCi available with the Proactive 5-speed automatic transmission
From early 2003, the Laguna II 2.2 dCi will be available with the Proactive 5-speed automatic transmission with flick-shift selection. This latest generation common-rail diesel engine features a variable-flow injection pump, a 16-valve aluminium cylinder head and a variable-nozzle turbocharger. It benefits also from balancer shafts and a twin-mass damping flywheel, guaranteeing carefully controlled noise levels. When it is associated with the 5-speed Proactive transmission, driving enjoyment, performance, comfort and economy all benefit more than ever. The Laguna II 2.2 dCi auto hatchback thus achieves high performance, with a maximum circuit speed of 208kph and a standing-start kilometre time of 31.8sec for a low fuel consumption of 7.6 litres/100km in the complete cycle. — new Volvo S80.
Advanced technology at the service of new driving sensations
Widely admired since its introduction for its unusually high level of technical content for the family car class, Laguna II further improves its position with the adoption of new features to benefit safety and user comfort. The ESP dynamic driving control now includes an understeer control function. Installed as standard in all versions, this system intervenes in the event of the sudden loss of grip of the front wheels (understeer) brought about by an emergency manoeuvre or one which is excessive in relation to the car’s speed. By reducing engine torque output and braking one or more wheels, it returns the car to its proper trajectory. Should the understeer be pronounced, the system allows the car to be slowed more strongly by simultaneous application of two brakes (on the wheels inside the turn or the front wheels, depending on the severity of the understeer). This correction is accompanied by automatic illumination of the brake lights so as not to surprise following vehicles. The ESP system includes an ASR traction control function for starting from rest or accelerating in low-grip conditions. Always a leader in the area of passive safety, Laguna II includes a new adjustment system for the front headrests, even easier to use. Upward adjustment takes place naturally when lifting the head restraint. For downward adjustment, you just release the latch on the slide and the required setting is achieved naturally. Being easier, adjustment of the headrest is no longer a constraint. Its position is thus optimized, ensuring safety and comfort for the front seat occupants. A new navigation system, Carminat Guidance, also makes it appearance in Laguna II to complement the Carminat Advanced Navigation system already available. Carminat Guidance comprises a 1 DIN unit housing a 4x30W double-tuner radio, the central communications unit, a CD-ROM reader (digital maps) and CD-audio, a GPS aerial and an offset monochrome display in the upper part of the dashboard. Apart from its guidance (voice and visual) function, which is a real safety and comfort feature, a traffic information function will be added during the coming year. Laguna II therefore offers a choice between two valuable and competitive systems adapted to each of its equipment levels. It should also be noted that as in the case of the 4x15W and 4x30W mono CD Cabasse units, this new system will in a few months’ time be available with the option of a facia-mounted 6 CD changer. For the top of the range, a 4x40W 6 CD system called ’Cabasse auditorium’ with eight speakers and speed-sensitive volume control is now offered. A video pack comprising a DVD player plus TFT screens in the backs of the front seat headrests completes this very comprehensive multimedia offering.
Perceived quality at the highest level, thanks to new trim and materials inside the cabin — new Ford Focus Coupe-Cabriolet.
Always anxious to offer its customers greater value, Renault has made significant changes to Laguna II in terms of upholstery and trim materials. For all equipment levels, the upper part of the dashboard has a new ’Cougar’ grained finish which perfectly blends with the other internal trim features, themselves benefiting from changes in both colour and trim. The luggage cover in the Sport Tourer versions is now cloth rather than the TEP formerly used. As in Espace IV, the cloth reduces the noise made by the luggage cover in use, while the matt appearance of the material makes this feature more attractive and discreet. The safety belts have also changed, with the adoption of a new woven structure which results in a more unified appearance while making the belt more flexible, and therefore quicker and easier to pull through the reel. Where upholstery materials are concerned, each equipment level benefits from significant changes which lend each version more apparent value. On the ’Authentique’, the colour of the existing warp-and-weft upholstery has been changed from blue to carbon, and the door panels which formerly matched the seats now use a smooth ’Candole’ cloth. The ’Expression’ level, conventional in its design, sees its velour upholstery replaced by a completely new Club warp-and-weft material which gives the cabin interior a more modern appearance. It is available in two colours, carbon and beige.
