Renault Laguna GT

Motoring Channel Staff - 26/February/2008

Melbourne, Australia — Renault will hit the ground running in Switzerland, launching two new Laguna GT models at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show.

The performance versions of the new Laguna III will be offered in both liftback and wagon body styles, or Hatch and Sport Tourer as Renault calls them, powered by either turbo petrol or turbo diesel engines.

Extended bodywork, larger wheels, and sporty interiors also add to the Laguna GT's new features.

"Laguna GT takes up a unique position on the sports saloon market, offering a sensational driving experience with total peace of mind," explains the company. 

The peace of mind that Renault talks about relates to the Laguna's safety repertoire, which includes the usual range of safety systems such as airbags and safety cells, but also the Active Drive chassis and four-wheel-steering system. Renault claims that these systems result in "enhanced manoeuvrability, sharpened dynamic response and unmatched steering precision giving the driver truly intuitive control in cornering."

With an uprated chassis, the Laguna GT models will come with one of two engines:

2.0-litre turbo petrol: 150kW (205hp) and 300Nm
 2.0-litre turbo diesel: 132kW (180hp) and 400Nm

Renault talks about "delivering best-in-class performance, driveability and acoustics," with the turbo diesel engine, which delivers its 132kW of power @ 3750rpm. Peak torque is 400Nm @ 2000rpm. 

The petrol powered Laguna GT is slightly quicker in a straight line and the 16-valve engine outputs 150kW @ 5000rpm and 300Nm @ 3000rpm.

In addition to the Renault Laguna GT's lower bodykit, which comprises new front and rear aprons and side skirts, the French sports car sits on 225/45 R18 Bridgestone Potenza tyres. The wheel rims are 18-inch 'Celsium' design alloy wheels. 

Though Brembo brakes haven't been used like on some its sports models, Renault has increased the diameter of the brakes disc to 320mm and 300mm at the front and rear respectively.

Exclusive GT logos can be seen inside and outside the car and alcantara front seats also get the logo. 

"Sports design details abound highlighting the GT version" says Renault. These include things like an aluminium gearshift knob, leather and alcantara upholstery, drilled aluminium pedals, sports front seats, and a specific GT steering wheel.

Renault will show the Laguna GT for the first time in public at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. It will be on sale in April 2008 in Europe.

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