The all-new Renault Fluence combines sleek design and roominess, elegance and outstanding drive from €18,890. In addition to the usual €1,500 Government scrappage scheme, Renault also offer special deals to those trading in cars of eight years plus.
Renault Ireland launched its new Fluence saloon, designed with the aim of standing out as the most attractive car of its class for an amazing price. Fluence has several features that will set it apart from rivals: beneath its strong, sporting exterior, Fluence features a comfortable cabin and a wealth of useful technological aids.
Fluence targets customers looking for a status-enhancing saloon and will be available in two diesel versions - 1.5 dCi 86 and 106 bhp and also a petrol 1.6 16V 110 bhp. An electric version of the Fluence is due to hit Irish shores at the end of 2011.
The new Fluence is a big car with a massive boot space. Renault says that it offers more passenger space than any major rival, including the best elbow room in both the front and rear.
The Fluence has an ergonomically sound driving position. The dashboard features elegant, flowing lines and key functions fall easily to hand – these include the controls for the navigation and climate control systems, the steering wheel-mounted radio and telephone fingertip remote controls and the controls for the cruise control and speed limiter. The driver's seat has a huge range of adjustment, 240mm fore or aft and +/-35mm in terms of height; the steering wheel can be adapted for rake and reach, too.
The interior is very comfortable, and the rear seat can be folded 60/40. The cabin also features more than 23 litres of stowage space, including a nine-litre illuminated and refrigerated glovebox and a 2.2-litre centre console cubby, a climate control system with front and rear vents (depending on version ) and an automatic dual-zone climate control available as standard on Dynamique and TomTom Edition versions.
A raft of user-friendly, high-tech features more commonly associated with top-of-the range models are available: hands-free entry and ignition card with automatic locking of the doors as the card-holder walks away from the vehicle; the new, integrated Carminat TomTom navigation system, for €490, a wide range of audio options on the TomTom Edition including the range-topping 3D Sound by Arkamys system, and Plug & Music digital connectivity.
Renault says that it is a blend of outstanding comfort and top-class roadholding together with engines that combine power with fuel economy, a chassis that blends efficiency with comfort and driving pleasure, a comprehensive choice of engines, with one petrol and two diesel Renault eco options.
Renault says that the fluence has been rigorously designed to meet even the most exacting customer's demands which a comprehensive range of leading safety features: ABS with EBA (emergency brake assist ), ESC (electronic stability control ), six airbags, five three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, cruise control, speed limiter, etc.
All diesel models in the Fluence range have a CO2 emissions rating of just 119g/km and qualify for the Renault eco signature. These engines also qualify for band A and lowest annual road tax at €104.
In 2011, the Renault range will be boosted by the introduction of an all-electric version of Fluence – proof that attractive, comfortable, spacious cars are by no means incompatible with respect for the environment.
Eric Basset, managing director, Renault Ireland: “We are delighted to bring the much awaited Fluence to Ireland and when we say that if ever a car was built for the Irish market, that the Fluence is it, we do mean that. The Irish driver and the saloon car almost have a tradition and history and we believe the Fluence will exceed all expectations of the saloon car in Ireland. Its stunning looks, fantastic roominess, a great diesel engine and an amazing entry price will be a big temptation to Irish drivers. With the Fluence, you are driving upgraded – its look, size, and specifications for the price of a smaller car, will blow Irish drivers away.”
Customers who order a Renault Fluence this month (April ), will receive a free five year unlimited mileage warranty. Credit Renault is also available for the Fluence at a special launch rate of 5.9 per cent APR.