Offering new levels in driver comfort, the striking Laguna range is packed with class-leading features. With top safety ratings and impressive performance figures, the vehicle is available in a range of specifications.

The good

Stylish design and good driving dynamics

The bad

Some interior features are too fiddly

Tech Specs

Price from

£16,795

Combined Fuel up to

57.6mpg

0-62 from

7.3 seconds

max speed up to

151mph

co2 from

130g/km

Test Drive

New Laguna Sport Tourer TomTom Edition dCi 150 FAP eco2

In recent years Renault has been the headline-writer’s dream manufacturer thanks to its creatively-named models and with every new launch sub editors throughout the motor industry are sitting and rubbing their hands together with glee.

For example, in the past we have had Carry on Clio, Last Twingo in Paris and now we are treated to the latest release – The Creature from the Black Laguna and boy, what a creature.

You see the new Laguna Sport Tourer is crammed with quality features and has the styling to make it a true blockbuster.

Added to these plaudits is a reasonable price tag that is really making rivals sit up and take notice.

Admittedly, the model supplied for my test drive included some snazzy optional extra such as full leather perforated upholstery with electronically adjustable and heated front seats (£1,300), Xenon directional headlights with headlight washers (£650) and hands free keycard with electrically adjustable, heated and folding door mirrors (£395) but with all these added extras the asking price was still just over £25k.

But for those not wanting to splash out on added extras, the standard spec list is guaranteed to impress. The TomTom model supplied boasts an extremely easy-to-use and popular sat nav system that conveniently alerts the driver to any sneaky speed cameras lurking around the next corner. But also as standard are tinted windows, a see-me-home lighting system, dual zone climate control, automatic headlights and windscreen wipers and a rear parking sensor which is a real necessity on such a lengthy vehicle.

Comfort levels are exceptionally high for up to five adults and the luggage compartment is suitably spacious. Elsewhere, there are numerous useful storage compartments scattered throughout the cabin.

The 2.0-litre engine delivered plenty of power both in and around town and out on the open road and the six-speed manual transmission was a breeze to use.

As one would expect from Renault, the Laguna is well kitted out with safety features and includes anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, electronic stability programme with traction and under steer control, numerous airbags, an automatic handbrake that won’t leave you suffering from anxiety attacks after a steep hill start and plenty more.

All in all, the Laguna really ticks all the boxes and will still leave you on speaking terms with your bank manager. What more could you ask for?

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