Renault Laguna Coupe 2.0 16V Turbo (170 Hp) Automatic

The Renault Laguna Coupe 2.0 16V Turbo (170 Hp) Automatic, produced between 2008 and 2012, represented a sophisticated and stylish offering from the French automaker, primarily targeting the discerning European market. Positioned as a grand tourer rather than a mere derivative of its sedan and wagon counterparts, the Laguna Coupe was designed to evoke a sense of elegance, performance, and advanced technology. This particular iteration, featuring a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine paired with an automatic transmission, aimed to strike a balance between spirited driving dynamics and refined comfort, embodying Renault’s vision for a premium two-door experience. It carved out a niche in a competitive segment, offering a distinctive French alternative to German and Japanese rivals with its unique blend of design flair and practical performance.

Engineering and Performance of the Renault Laguna Coupe 2.0 16V Turbo (170 Hp) Automatic

At the heart of the Renault Laguna Coupe 2.0 16V Turbo (170 Hp) Automatic lies Renault’s robust F4R engine, a 1998 cm³ (121.93 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder unit. This powerplant is characterized by its DOHC valvetrain, featuring 4 valves per cylinder, ensuring efficient breathing and combustion. The engine benefits significantly from a turbocharger and an intercooler, which work in tandem to boost output beyond what a naturally aspirated engine of this displacement could achieve. With a compression ratio of 9.5:1 and a multi-port manifold injection system, the engine is optimized for both responsiveness and fuel efficiency, adhering to the Euro 4 emission standard prevalent at its time of production.

The F4R engine delivers a peak power output of 170 horsepower at 5000 rpm, providing ample thrust for highway cruising and spirited acceleration. Torque is equally impressive, reaching 270 Nm (199.14 lb.-ft.) at a relatively low 3250 rpm. This broad torque band ensures flexibility in daily driving, minimizing the need for constant gear changes. Power is sent to the front wheels via a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission, which complements the engine’s characteristics by providing seamless power delivery and contributing to a relaxed driving experience. The powertrain architecture is a front, transverse layout, a common configuration for front-wheel-drive vehicles that optimizes cabin space and weight distribution.

In terms of outright performance, the Laguna Coupe 2.0 16V Turbo (170 Hp) Automatic is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 8.7 seconds, with 0 to 100 km/h achieved in 9.2 seconds. Its maximum speed is electronically limited or aerodynamically capped at 220 km/h (136.7 mph), making it a capable performer on unrestricted European highways. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio stands at 9.1 kg/Hp (109.3 Hp/tonne), while the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.8 kg/Nm (173.6 Nm/tonne), indicating a well-balanced power delivery for its class. Fuel economy figures reflect its turbocharged nature and automatic transmission. In city driving, it achieves approximately 18.1 US mpg (13 l/100 km). On the open road, this improves significantly to 36.2 US mpg (6.5 l/100 km), with a combined cycle rating of 26.7 US mpg (8.8 l/100 km). These figures were competitive for a turbocharged gasoline coupe of its size and power output during its production years.

Design and Features of the Renault Laguna Coupe

The Renault Laguna Coupe stands out with its distinctive and elegant design, moving beyond the more conventional lines of its sedan and wagon brethren. Its two-door, four-seat coupe body type exudes a sophisticated presence, characterized by flowing lines, a sleek roofline, and muscular rear haunches. Measuring 182.8 inches (4643 mm) in length, 71.3 inches (1811 mm) in width, and 55.12 inches (1400 mm) in height, with a wheelbase of 105.91 inches (2690 mm), the Laguna Coupe possesses proportions that are both dynamic and graceful. This design language was instrumental in positioning the car as a premium offering, aiming to capture buyers seeking a blend of style and practicality.

Inside, the four-seat cabin is designed with an emphasis on comfort and refinement, typical of a grand touring coupe. While specific interior features from the data are limited, the Laguna line generally boasted a high level of equipment for its segment, including quality materials and advanced infotainment systems for its era. The trunk space is practical for a coupe, offering 14.94 cu. ft. (423 liters) of capacity, making it suitable for weekend getaways or daily errands. The fuel tank capacity of 17.44 US gallons (66 liters) provides a respectable cruising range, especially considering its highway fuel efficiency.

Underpinning the Laguna Coupe’s ride and handling are a well-engineered chassis and suspension system. The front suspension employs a Spring Strut design, known for its balance of comfort and control, while the rear features a Coil spring setup. Braking performance is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing confident stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) comes standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking maneuvers. Steering is managed by a hydraulic rack and pinion system, offering direct feedback and a traditional steering feel favored by many enthusiasts. The vehicle rides on 17-inch wheel rims, shod with 215/50 R17 tires, which contribute to both its aesthetic appeal and its stable road manners.

The overall design philosophy of the Renault Laguna Coupe 2.0 16V Turbo (170 Hp) Automatic was to create a car that was not only visually appealing but also a pleasure to drive and own. Its blend of French elegance, a capable turbocharged engine, and a comfortable, well-appointed interior made it a compelling choice in the European coupe market, offering a distinctive character that set it apart from its more conservative competitors. Despite its eventual discontinuation, the Laguna Coupe remains a testament to Renault’s ambition to compete in the premium segment with a unique and stylish proposition.

Technical Specifications: Renault Laguna Coupe 2.0 16V Turbo (170 Hp) Automatic