Repsol YPF

The first few weeks of 2002 are what the bosses at Renault dare to suggest as the date for the launch of the new and more powerful Laguna diesel. For the moment, they have only presented to the press the important leap that they have achieved on the range with the introduction of new mechanics of 2.2 litres and 16 valves. A new engine with which this Laguna reaches a heart stopping performance. The price and the standard extras still have not been made public.

It will be equipped like the rest of the new Lagunas, with a 6 speed gearbox. Its 2.2 litre dCi mechanics also let it reach figures that few other diesels can dream about. Not in vain, Renault signs a top speed of 215kph and an acceleration from 0 to 100 of 9.8 seconds.

The consumption, on the other hand, is not so spectacular, and its main rivals, give a fuel consumption a little lower than this Laguna. Nevertheless, its 6.3 litres of diesel that it absorbs every 100km are a figure that should not be frowned on for a car with thiese characteristics.

Its extras are still not known but looking at those on its smaller brothers, there is no doubt that they will be state of the art. So, it is logical to think that the stability control, navigator, tyre pressure control and car/key that are standard on all the other Lagunas will not be lacking.