Renault Laguna Road Test

Renault Laguna

Depending on the trim level, the central tunnel houses the cruise control switch and the automatic parking brake. The standard Expression model doesn’t have these functions but the test car came with one of the optional packs. The Comfort Pack Plus is the only one available at base level. It adds £600 to the price but comprises climate control (dual-zone) with a carbon and odour filter, automatic headlamps and wipers, front fog lamps, an illuminated vanity mirror for the front passenger and the cruise-control system. Fitment of the automatic parking brake is a further £250 and just one of the many, individual optional extras available.

Another is the integrated 6-Cd autochanger with MP3 compatibility, which would replace the standard, single CD/radio units. There are two Bluetooth Sat-Nav systems on the list; one comes with the autochanger (1,750) and the other has a slightly different, but still single, CD/radio.

The occupants of the New Laguna have newly-designed seats offering better lateral support. Both front seats have mechanical height adjustment and the driver benefits from lumbar-support adjustment. As part of the weight-loss programme, the front seat-backs are a little thinner than before. It doesn’t compromise comfort but it does mean that the rear passengers have a bit more legroom.

The two outer seats, at the back, are well contoured but this makes the middle seat little more than a wide panel. There’s just about enough room for three adults, as long as one of them is skinny.

Opening the large tailgate, (which is split on the Initiale and optional, elsewhere) reveals a huge boot capable of carrying 462-litres of luggage or, with the seats folded, 1,377-litres.

As well as the usual ABS with EBD, even the base Laguna is fitted with Brake Assist, along with ESP and ASR traction control. Generally, the electronic safety systems have been optimised to activate quicker. Passive safety measures include six airbags, double seatbelt pre-tensioners for the front, anti-submarining seats and the outer rear seats, which also have ISOFIX mountings, as standard.

All cars have their shortcomings, but all in all, the New Laguna is one of those that are easy to forgive. After travelling almost 400 miles in the driver’s seat, I didn’t feel uncomfortable or tense. The rear seat passengers would probably disagree but then, the driver has to have some advantages.

The range is sizeable and with the advent of the Sports Tourer, there must be something for everyone.

Renault Laguna