Renault Laguna Coupe 3.5 V6 24V (238 Hp) GT Automatic

The Renault Laguna Coupe 3.5 V6 24V (238 Hp) GT Automatic represents a compelling chapter in the French automaker’s pursuit of style, performance, and sophistication within the competitive European D-segment. Launched in 2008 as part of the third-generation Laguna lineup, this distinctive two-door coupe was a bold statement from Renault, aiming to blend elegant aesthetics with a robust powertrain and refined driving dynamics. Unlike its sedan and wagon siblings, the Coupe was designed from the ground up to exude a premium, grand touring character, drawing inspiration from the stunning Fluence concept car. It was never officially sold in the United States, but within its primary European market, it carved out a niche for discerning buyers seeking a blend of French flair and substantial performance, offering a compelling alternative to more traditional German and Japanese rivals. The GT Automatic variant, in particular, emphasized a seamless and comfortable driving experience, making it an ideal choice for both spirited drives and long-distance journeys across the continent.

Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Renault Laguna Coupe

At the core of the `Renault Laguna Coupe` GT Automatic’s appeal lies its potent 3.5-liter V6 24V engine, identified by the V4Y engine code. This naturally aspirated, V-engine configuration was a testament to traditional powertrain engineering, delivering a robust 238 horsepower at 6000 rpm. This power output, combined with a healthy 243.4 lb.-ft. of torque peaking at 4400 rpm, provided the coupe with commendable acceleration and effortless cruising capabilities. The engine’s design featured a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and multi-port manifold injection, ensuring efficient fuel delivery and responsive throttle control across the rev range. With a compression ratio of 10.3:1 and 4 valves per cylinder, the V6 was engineered for a balance of performance and refinement.

The power was seamlessly transferred to the front wheels via a sophisticated 6-speed automatic transmission. This drivetrain architecture, while front-wheel drive, was optimized to handle the V6’s output effectively, providing smooth shifts and contributing to the car’s relaxed GT demeanor. In terms of outright performance, the Laguna Coupe 3.5 V6 GT Automatic was capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 7 seconds, with 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) taking 7.4 seconds. Its top speed was an impressive 152.24 mph (245 km/h), firmly placing it in contention with other performance-oriented coupes of its era. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio of 6.7 kg/Hp (149 Hp/tonne) and weight-to-torque ratio of 4.8 kg/Nm (206.6 Nm/tonne) further underscore its dynamic capabilities.

Despite its performance credentials, Renault also paid attention to practical considerations such as fuel economy and emissions. The Laguna Coupe 3.5 V6 GT Automatic achieved a combined fuel consumption rating of 23.1 US mpg (10.2 l/100 km), which was respectable for a powerful V6 coupe of its time. On the extra-urban cycle, it could achieve up to 31.8 US mpg (7.4 l/100 km), demonstrating its efficiency on longer journeys. It met the Euro 4 emission standard, reflecting its compliance with contemporary European environmental regulations. The generous 17.44 US gallon (66-liter) fuel tank capacity ensured an ample cruising range, reinforcing its grand touring suitability.

Design and Features: Elegance Meets Engineering in the Renault Laguna Coupe

The design of the `Renault Laguna Coupe` was arguably its most striking attribute. It presented a sleek, muscular, and undeniably elegant silhouette that immediately distinguished it from its more utilitarian family members. The two-door, four-seat coupe body type was characterized by flowing lines, a low roofline, and a wide stance, giving it a powerful yet graceful road presence. With an overall length of 182.8 inches, a width of 71.3 inches, and a height of 55.12 inches, the Coupe possessed harmonious proportions, further accentuated by its 105.91-inch wheelbase. These dimensions contributed not only to its aesthetic appeal but also to its stable and composed handling characteristics.

Inside, the Laguna Coupe offered a driver-focused cockpit with a strong emphasis on comfort and refinement. While the exact interior features varied by trim, the GT Automatic designation suggested a high level of standard equipment designed to enhance the grand touring experience. The four-seat configuration, with two comfortable front seats and two adequately sized rear seats, made it practical for occasional rear passengers, though the true appeal lay in its ability to transport two occupants in style and comfort. The trunk space was a respectable 14.94 cubic feet (423 liters), offering sufficient capacity for luggage on weekend getaways or daily essentials, further solidifying its practicality as a stylish daily driver or a long-distance cruiser.

Safety and driving dynamics were also key considerations. The Laguna Coupe was equipped with a robust set of features, including an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, ensuring controlled stopping power. The braking system featured ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing strong and consistent deceleration. The suspension setup comprised spring struts at the front and coil springs at the rear, tuned to deliver a balance of ride comfort and agile handling. Steering was managed by a hydraulic rack and pinion system, offering tactile feedback and precise control. The vehicle rode on 18-inch wheels, shod with 225/45 R18 tires, which contributed significantly to both its visual appeal and its grip on the road, enhancing the overall driving experience.

In summary, the Renault Laguna Coupe 3.5 V6 24V (238 Hp) GT Automatic was a beautifully executed vehicle that showcased Renault’s ability to craft a truly desirable and capable grand touring coupe. Its combination of a potent V6 engine, smooth automatic transmission, elegant design, and refined features made it a standout offering in its segment during its production run from 2008 to 2012. Though not available in the US market, it remains an admired example of European automotive design and engineering, celebrated for its unique blend of style, performance, and comfort.

Technical Specifications