Renault Laguna 1.5 dCi

Introduction

Taxation based on emissions of carbon dioxide works in favour of the diesel-powered car. Not only that, but drivers are cottoning onto the benefits of a more frugal version of their car that doesn't suffer in the performance stakes. Hence, virtually every mid-range D-segment car has the option of a 2.0-litre turbodiesel. Consequently, though the choice is wide, there is not much variation. Renault, however, has been one of the first to fit a much smaller turbodiesel to its D-segment challenger.

What is it?

The Laguna itself is actually brand new, replacing the dowdy looking previous generation with a fresh and modern design. It comes as either a hatch or estate (Sport Hatch in Renault speak) and the car tested here is powered by a 1.5-litre dCi engine. Renault has awarded this model with its own Eco2 symbol, which in Renault's words means that it is "affordable, environmentally friendly and economical in terms of fuel consumption." It is certainly affordable, at about £16,350, which includes a very generous standard level of equipment. This Laguna is relatively friendly to the environment too, with 130g/km of CO₂ emitted and 57.6mpg fuel economy on the combined cycle.

How does it drive?

It's all very well and good fitting a smaller engine to a large car and claiming that it's good for the environment, but if the engine needs to be thrashed to make any progress at all, then no driver will ever match the claimed economy figures. Thankfully, the 1.5-litre unit is a great engine. Sure, its 109bhp doesn't compare favourably to larger-engined competition, but it packs a 177lb.ft punch too and never feels very short of go. On top of that, its installation in the Laguna is quiet and refined. The chassis is well matched to the powerplant, encouraging relaxed cruising. Its ride/handling compromise falls down on the side of ride comfort, which is no bad thing when every other D-segment car seems to aspire to be a driver's car.

Living with the Laguna is a joy too. Its interior is one of the most modern and airy in the segment and seemingly well put together. There is a wealth of technology employed, which just works. Items such as the automatic handbrake and keyless entry are particularly seamless in operation. It's a large car too, with loads of room for passengers and luggage.

Planet hugger or planet mugger?

Relative to most cars in its class, there is no doubt that this particular Laguna sidles up to the tree and wraps its arms around it. Fuel consumption and emissions figures are impressive for a car of this size, yet, just as importantly, there is seemingly little compromise. Admittedly, not all drivers will attain the extra urban cycle economy of 62.8mpg, but even so, that's a mighty impressive figure. In our time with the car, we averaged 45mpg over a wide range of conditions and roads, so the Laguna is undoubtedly economical in real world usage.

Verdict

People need cars of a certain size to fit their individual circumstances, regardless of their desire to reduce their impact on the environment. The D-segment is full of large cars with decent turbodiesel engines that offer good performance and better economy than their petrol counterparts. Renault is one of the first to offer a smaller turbodiesel unit in this market, and in the Laguna it works particularly well.

Shane O' Donoghue