Renault – Page 14 – Automobiles Review

Dacia Lodgy Glace

Dacia has introduced Lodgy Glace – the sports variant of the new family road car which will be launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2012. Two Lodgy Glace will will take to on the grid for every race as the first will be driven by Alain Prost and the second by Nicolas Prost and Evens Stievenart.

The Lodgy Glace has been designed specifically for this unique racing series, which is renowned as one of the most challenging in motorsport. The technical regulations of the Trophée Andros are extremely strict, and impose restrictions on all aspects of the vehicle – chassis dimensions, gearbox, tyres, including the materials employed. Everything is done to limit the use of complex and costly technical solutions: instead, this series is all about finding simple, ingenious solutions, a measure which fits perfectly with the Dacia brand. The series also brings the car‘s reliability to the fore, combined with driver skill.

Custom-prepared by the teams at Tork Engineering – design, production, assembly and Sodemo – engine.

The Lodgy Glace is fully checked by Renault Sport Technologies (RST). Throughout the project, RST has contributed its technical and sporting expertise from the world of motorsport: it acts like a conductor, perfectly coordinating the different technical partners and disciplines – design, engineering, the Dacia brand and the drivers.
Check out the full specs, below!

Dacia Lodgy Glace Specs:

CHASSIS
Type: tubular steel
Suspension: double wishbones; adjustable Öhlins integrated springs/damper units

ENGINE
Type: VQ 30 developed from the Renault-Nissan Alliance 24-valve V6
Position: mid-rear
Cubic capacity (cc): 2,987
Bore x stroke (mm): 93 x 73.3
Maximum power: 355hp @ 7,500rpm
Maximum torque: 360Nm @ 5,500 rpm

TRANSMISSION
Type: four-wheel drive
Gearbox: SADEV 6-speed sequential
Differentials: limited slip front and rear

BRAKES
Front: 300mm Ø steel discs
Rear: 265mm Ø steel discs
Calipers: Beringer 4 pot

WHEELS
Rims: 5.5’’ x 16’’ magnesium
Tyres: Continental Ice Racing Contact 3

DIMENSIONS/WEIGHT
Length: 4,001mm
Width: 1,900mm
Front/rear track: 1,690mm
Wheelbase: 2,500mm
Weight: 950kg
Fuel tank: 25 litres

STEERING
Type: 4 wheel steering
Hydraulic power steering
Cam-adjustable rear steering

Source: Dacia

November 14, 2011

Fleet News – 2010 BMW 3-Series is the most reliable car

The most reliable car is the BMW 3-Series, according to the survey, retaining its number one position from 2010, while the Honda Accord retains its second place from 2010. What is more, German brands have caught up with Japanese cars when it comes to reliability. In other words – six German brands appear in the top 10 as three of them in the top five.

The final two places in the table are taken by two cars absent from the top 10 last year, with the Mazda6 taking ninth place and the BMW 5 Series securing 10^th place. BMW also takes the top spot as the most reliable car manufacturer, with Audi taking second place.

“We are delighted to have won the overall honour in the FN50 reliability survey. The outgoing BMW 3 Series Saloon and the 3 Series range overall has been and continues to be an outstanding success for us.”, commented Tim Abbott, managing director at BMW UK.

“Awards such as this ensure customers can buy a class-leading vehicle safe in the knowledge that only years of enjoyable, hassle free motoring in a premium car await.”, he added.

The annual analysis is commissioned by Fleet News.

Check out all rankings, below!

Most reliable cars

BMW 3 Series
Honda Accord
Volkswagen Golf
Audi A3
Toyota Avensis
Nissan Qashqai
Volkswagen Passat
Audi A4
Mazda6
BMW 5 Series

Most reliable car manufacturers

BMW
Audi
Honda
Volkswagen
Toyota
Nissan
Mercedes-Benz
Ford
Lexus
Skoda

Most reliable vans

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Ford Transit Connect
Volkswagen Caddy
Ford Transit
Volkswagen Transporter

Most reliable van manufacturers

Volkswagen
Ford
Mercedes-Benz
Fiat
Renault

November 9, 2011

2012 Renault Fluence ZE

Renault has recently introduced Fluence Z.E. and Kangoo Van Z.E, which are a historic turning point. In the near future, this form of power will see the development of a range of vehicles that deliver a holistic gain in terms of respect for the environment.

Fluence ZE was firstly unveiled as a concept car at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2009 and now the car is available to buy at decent price. It is aimed at private customers and fleet operators looking for a four-door saloon which is both economical and more respectful of the environment.

2012 Renault Fluence ZE is powered by a synchronous electric motor with rotor coil – 95PS ( 70kW) at 3 000RPM and 226Nm (167 lb-ft) of torque, which is available immediately. Having maximum torque available every time you press the throttle guarantees a safe and enjoyable drive. It’s a unique, astonishing feeling, and perfectly suited to today’s mobility needs and driving challenges. You no longer need to shift gear, either; you just concentrate on the road ahead.

The car features electronic driving aids – ABS and ESC, which have been recalibrated to match the different weight distribution resulting from the addition of the battery. Fluence Z.E. is extensively equipped for its segment, with safety features including double seat belt pretensioners and six airbags as standard.

The combined cycle of the vehicle is 115 miles, which is more than 178 km. Some 87% of daily journeys involve driving less than 60km (37 miles), so the range is more than satisfying. However, in extreme conditions – combining severe weather, a sporty driving style, hilly terrain, range can fall to around 50 miles.

So, Fluence ZE is a perfect city car for everyday use and if you don’t need a stylish Mercedes or sporty BMW to go to work, this may be your next car.

Summary of purchase and battery hire prices

Fluence Z.E. Prime Time £22,850 on the road

Less PiGC £5,000

Net price £17,850

Monthly battery hire (3 years, 9,000 miles per annum) £81.00

Source: Renault

October 17, 2011

Clio Renaultsport 200 Raider

Renault has announced the special Clio Renaultsport 200 Raider, which is a limited series of the famous hot hatchback. It comes with a lot of extra equipment over the standard Renaultsport version on which it is based. Clio Renaultsport 200 Raider will be limited to just 50 cars specially for the UK market.

The car is finished in either matt Stealth Grey or Diavolo Red. The main colour is contrasted by a gloss black finish to the roof, rear spoiler, F1-style front blade, rear diffuser and door mirrors. This gloss black finish is also applied to the 18” ‘Interlagos’ alloy wheels

The rims are wrapped in Bridgestone RE 050A tyres, as used on the record-breaking Megane Renaultsport 265 Trophy.

Naturally, the acclaimed Cup chassis is standard featuring a lower ride height, stiffer springs and dampers, quicker steering ratio and red finish to the Brembo brake callipers. The exterior finish is rounded off by extra-tinted rear side and tailgate windows and a Raider badge.

The interior boasts leather Recaro seats, zinc grey finish to the centre console and fascia inserts. There are also a white rev counter, bluetooth, USB connectivity, automatic climate control and Renaultsport carpet mats.

A numbered plate identifies the number in the 50 production run. The Clio Renaultsport 200 Raider will be available to order from the end of October. Price list is not announced, yet!

Source: Renault

October 1, 2011

2011 Renault Scenic 1.6 dCi – 64.2mpg and 115g/km of CO2

Renault Grand Scenic 1.6 dCi Stop & Start is one of the best MPVs currently available on the market. The vehicle offers seven seats, superb comfort, extremely efficient diesel engine and a lot of goodies to satisfy even the most demanding customers.

The state-of-the-art 1.6 liter common-rail diesel produces 130BHP (96 kW) and 300Nm (220 lb-ft) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds and top speed of 195 km/h (121 mph) and all that performance at low price. The vehicle achieves 64.2mpg on combined cycle with emission as low as 115 g/km CO2.

This is enough reason for wining first place in its category in the What Car? Green Awards.

There are five trim levels:

Extreme: ABS & ESP for safety, Air conditioning, 4 x 15W RDS radio CD MP3 with fingertip remote control, Tunepoint to connect your MP3 player

Expression: ‘Child minder’ mirror, Automatic parking brake, Front fog lamps, TFT dashboard screen (Thin Film Technology), Rear electric windows

I-Music Special Edition: 17″ ‘Sari’ alloy wheels, Parking proximity sensors – rear, Multi-functional Tunepoint, Arkamys 4 x 30W RDS radio CD with Bluetooth, Brushed aluminium effect door mirrors

Dynamic TOMTOM: Carminat TomTom integrated satellite navigation with joystick, Leather steering wheel, Hands Free Renault card, Automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, Multifunctional tunepoint and Bluetooth

Privilege TOMTOM: Part leather upholstery with a choice of two colours, Electrochrome rear view mirror, Rear parking sensors, Carminat TomTom integrated satellite navigation with joystick, Sliding centre storage unit.

Source: Renault

September 8, 2011

Renault Clio Gordini – 1.6 VVT 128 and 1.5 dCi 106

Renault has announced two new models in the line-up of Clio Gordini.

The Gordini range starts with the 1.6 VVT 128, which is 1.6 liter four-cylinder petrol with 128PS, which is taken from Twingo Renaultsport 133, but it is slightly de-tuned. However, it offers 0 to 100 km/h in 9.3 seconds and an impressive 42.2 mpg on the combined cycle.

Renault Clio Gordini 128 is priced at £14 000 on-the-road.

The second new model is 1.5 dCi 106, which has 106PS 1.5 turbo-diesel engine returning up to 62.8 mpg on combined cycle and just 110g/km of C02. Still, the car is capable of doing 191 km/h (119mph ). It is also free from road fund licence and only £20 in the second year.

Renault Clio Gordini 106 is priced at £14 950 on-the-road.

Renault Clio Gordini boasts twin white racing stripes across the bonnet, roof and tailgate. There are also white electric folding door mirrors and front bumper strip, Gordini badges, 16” Turini alloy wheels, body colour rear spoiler and twin tailpipe exhausts.

The interior comes with grey cloth upholstery with Gordini logo, leather Gordini steering wheel with grey detail and white stripe, Gordini satin chrome effect gearknob with blue Gordini badge and black surround with satin chrome gaiter lever.

Standard are also 4x20W radio CD with aux input and fingertip remote controls, auto lights and wipers, climate control, cruise control, front curtain airbags and speed limiter.

Source: Renault

August 9, 2011

2012 Renault Twingo

Renault has unveiled the new 2012 Twingo a little earlier than its official premiere, which is expected to be at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show on September 13.

The new Twingo incorporates bold design including an enlarged Renault badge on the front fascia and a bigger grill than on the previous model.

There are no additional information about the engine range or price list as well as equipment, but all this information will be available soon, because 2012 Twingo will hit the market later this year.

Stay tuned for more information and photos of the small city car.

Source: Renault

July 28, 2011

2011 Renault Wind Roadster Gordini

Renault has announced the new 2011 Wind Roadster Gordini, which is now available to buy for just £12 995.

The car comes with Malta Blue metallic paint with twin white Gordini stripes, plus the usual Gordini badges on the side pillars. The exterior also features white door mirrors, grille trim and cowls, 17” alloy wheels with a polished face and gloss black inserts.

The interior boasts Gordini blue and dark grey leather seats with embossed Gordini logo, numbered Gordini plaque (1-200), satin chrome effect gearknob with blue Gordini badge and blue gearstick surround.

There are also Bluetooth connectivity, climate control, multi-functional TunePoint for USB connections and Thatcham category 1 alarm.

The engine range includes a 1.2 liter TCE with 100PS and a 1.6 liter VVT with 133PS.

Among the options list, you can find a Renaultsport exhaust for £450 (1.6 only), 17” Gordini alloy wheels with polished face and blue inserts, plus a wind deflector for £200.

Check out the price list, below!

2011 Renault Wind Roadster Gordini price list:

Trim level	Engine	OTR Price
Dynamique	1.2 TCe 100	£12,995
	1.6 VVT 133	£13,895
GT Line	1.2 TCe 100	£13,895
	1.6 VVT 133	£14,795
Gordini	1.2 TCe 100	£15,195
	1.6 VVT 133	£16,095

Source: Renault

July 14, 2011

Twingo Renaultsport 133 and Clio Renaultsport 200 Silverstone GP

Renault has recently introduced the flagship 265PS Trophy version of Megane Renaultsport and it is time for the two smaller performance siblings – Twingo and Clio Renaultsport.

The Silverstone GP limited editions have been already on sale – the prices are 14 995 and £19 995, respectively. However, only 50 units will be produced of each model.

Both cars sit on lowered Cup Chassis with a striking combination of silver metallic paint and contrasting Deep Black details, 17” alloy wheels (Speedline on the Clio), roof and door mirrors.

There are also tinted rear windows and Silverstone GP B-pillar badges inscribed with the new grand prix circuit map. The Twingo also benefits from a matching Deep Black rear spoiler and fog light surrounds.

The pocket-rocket Twingo boasts an all-new Renaultsport full stainless steel exhaust system, providing a suitable throaty soundtrack to match its visual presence.

The Twingo is powered by a 1.6-litre petrol engine with 133PS, while the Clio has naturally aspirated 2.0 liter 16 valves petrol with 200PS.

Twingo Renaultsport 133 Silverstone GP and Clio Renaultsport 200 Silverstone GP Renault

Source: Renault

July 11, 2011

Renault FRENDZY Concept

Renault FRENDZY Concept car boasts unique style with its original and innovative stance and strange design.

The exterior features no glazing or centre pillar, just one conventional door and one sliding side door which incorporates a 37” widescreen display. The driver’s side, complete with side windows, still no centre pillar, but with centre opening doors, represents the world of the family.

“FRENDZY is the fourth vehicle to illustrate Renault’s new design strategy, a series which started with DeZir. It takes an original and innovative stance on the world of light commercial vehicles – a key part of Renault’s activities”, commented Laurens van den Acker, Senior Vice President, Design Renault.

“FRENDZY is the must-have vehicle for flexibility and versatility. It is efficient and modern as a work tool, yet sporting and warmly welcoming for the family”, added Axel Breun, Design Director, Concept and Show Cars.

The interior features interesting cockpit designed around the theme of a futuristic “work bench” featuring a structure which appears to be made from molten metal. Green light emanating from the dashboard brings this smooth and organic architecture to life.

“Our research into materials centred on the area where the technology of industry meets the cosy softness of the family nest. This modern combination of wood and metal picks up on Renault’s strategic design values of simplicity, sensuousness and warmth.”, said Antoine Génin, Design Director, Interior and Colour/Materials.

The extras are a lot, but the most interesting is the BlackBerry®PlayBook™ tablet recently launched by Research In Motion (RIM), plugged into the dashboard, which is ultra-portable -7” touchscreen, 425g in weight, measuring 130mm x 194mm x 10mm. It supports Adobe® Flash®, HD multimedia, advanced security features and out-of-the-box enterprise support.

Dimensions (mm)

Length	4,091
Width	1,872 (excluding mirrors) 2,172 (including mirrors)
Height	1,743
Ground clearance (laden)	200
Wheelbase	2,691
Front track	1,640
Rear track	1,640
Load capacity (litres)	2,250

Technical data

Motor	Electric
Power (kW /hp)	44 / 60
CO₂ emissions (g/km)	0 (in road use)
Batteries	Lithium – ion
Peak torque (Nm)	226
Top speed (kph)	130
Transmission	Direct drive, with reverse
Tyres	Concept 205/45 R19
Kerb weight (kg)	1,420

Partners

Body construction	ProtoStyle
Tyres	Michelin
Mobile interface	Research In Motion (RIM)
Optics	Gaggione
Sound	IRCAM

Source: Renault

July 7, 2011

Twingo Renaultsport R2

RenaultSport has announced a special version of Twingo. R2 Trophy will run alongside the MSA British Rally Championship, following each event across England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man from 2012.

The car is based on the 133HP Twingo Renaultsport and is aimed at budget conscious buyers, coming in the form of motorsport kits featuring all the required parts.

“Renault Sport Technologies intensifies its presence in UK rallying and the creation of a Trophy for Twingo in R1 and R2 categories makes me very happy. The remarkable road holding abilities of Twingo Renaultsport 133 will help young rally drivers to compete in a national championship, at an affordable price. This new trophy will reinforce the image of Renaultsport cars in the UK market which is extremely important for our brand and where Renault Sport Technologies has been enjoying a constant growth in the recent years.”, commented RENAULT Sport Technologies’ CEO, Patrice Ratti.

Source: Renault

July 6, 2011

2012 Renault Fluence Z.E. Price – £17 850

Renault has officially priced the new Fluence Z.E. (Zero Emission) for the UK. The car will hit the streets in 2012, but the manufacturer has already been accepting pre-reservations for it. The stylish five-seat, four-door Fluence Z.E. is priced from only £17 850.

The initial launch version of Fluence Z.E., Prime Time, comes with a high level of equipment, including 16” alloy wheels, climate control, cruise control, ecoMeter and Carminat TomTom Live smart satellite navigation, together with charging sockets on both front wings.

2012 Renault Fluence Z.E. has 95HP (70 kW) and 226Nm of instant torque on tap. The range of Renault’s flagship Z.E. is up to 185 km (115 miles), depending on driving and road conditions, which is more than satisfying.

So, if you are Eco-friendly and you like French cars, this is the perfect choice for everyday driving.

Source: Renault

June 28, 2011

Tag: Renault