Laguna GT receives new Active Drive

Renault and Renault Sport Technologies have announced the addition of the new Active Drive chassis with four-wheel steering to the Laguna GT. The upgrade is designed to improve the handling, dynamic response and steering precision of the vehicle.

The new chassis provides a greater emphasis on safety, both under difficult braking condition and during avoidance manoeuvres at speed. Active safety systems are only required as a last resort, meaning drivers should benefit from more efficient and more reassuring reactions when faced with an unexpected hazard.

The GT is further enhanced by the availability of two high-performance engines: 180hp two-litre turbo diesel and 205hp two-litre turbo petrol. A three-year/100,000 mile warranty is also included.

The diesel version is powered by a 2.0 dCi engine, providing a peak power of 180hp at 3,750rpm. A peak torque value of 400Nm is available from 2,000rpm, with a reduced-inertia variable-van turbocharger enhancing dynamic response at low revs.

A particulate filter and an exhaust gas regeneration valve with enhanced cooling provide substantial environmental proection. The combined-cycle fuel consumption is 43.4mpg, with carbon dioxidde emissions of 172g/km.

The petrol version is powered by a turbo-charged two-litre 16v unit (205hp at 5,000rpm and 300Nm from 3,000rpm) derived from technology featured on the Megane Renaultsport. The Laguna GT 205 accelerates from 0 to 62mph in 7.8 seconds and takes 28 seconds to cover 1,000 metres from standstill. Fuel consumption is 34.4mpg, with carbon dioxide emissions steady at 194g/km.

Hatch and Sport Tourer variations will be available when the Laguna GT goes on sale in the UK from May 9th 2008.