After a rather faltering start with the Logan in India, Renault has shaken off the styling stigma by launching the Renault Fluence.
Renault Fluence, available with a 2-liter petrol engine, and a 1.5 diesel engine, is a feature loaded car, though the petrol version is a lot better than its diesel counterpart. Equipped with a 6-speed VT auto transmission for the petrol variant, the Fluence is not available with manual transmission yet. The petrol variant also includes a wide range of features that include twin-zone air-conditioning, automatic headlamps, and rain sensing wipers, keyless start-stop, an on-board computer, leather seats, four airbags, and anti-whiplash headrests. Cabin quality is impressive and the plastics add a hardwearing feel to the insides. However, the diesel version is equally devoid of a good kit. The Fluence has a 2703mm wheelbase, which is longer than other car in its category. That translates into fantastic legroom space, but poor under-thigh support and restricted headroom at the back.
The New Improved Renault Fluence E4 D
Renault has tried to remove all complaints with the older diesel variant by launching this new and improved diesel version. The two major flaws from the earlier diesel version were the lack of an equipment list, and the car’s drivability. The launch of the E4 trim has rectified these problems to a large extent. In the E4 guise, the Fluence gets a whole host of goodies like cruise control, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth telephony and automatic headlights. The leather upholstery is another added feature enhancing the luxury quotient.
The diesel engine showed signs of a turbo lag below 2000rpm, which was followed by a sudden surge in power in the earlier diesel variant. This nature of the engine, made it rather difficult to drive the car in city traffic. The engine has now been equipped with a new fuel-injection system for more precise injections. The blades of the variable-geometry turbocharger have also been optimized for improved functioning at different engine speeds. The modifications to the engine have worked well, as has the drivability. All in all, the new Renault Fluence E4 D is a hit!
The all-new Renault Fluence diesel variant is available for Rs. 15.2 Lakhs, with an average of 18.6km/l, where as its petrol counterpart is available for Rs. 15.27 Lakhs and averages a mileage of 10.3km/l. The Renault Fluence, both in petrol and diesel, is a good choice to buy in this segment and at this price.