RENAULT is claiming top-of-the-table residual values for its Laguna and Clio as they begin to return to the used market in growing numbers. Using figures from Glass's Guide, Renault says both models lose buyers less money in depreciation than their mainstream competitors.

Looking at actual trade-in prices for two-year-old cars registered in August 1994 and showing 23,000 miles on the clock, Renault says the Laguna only loses a class-leading 25% of its list price while the Clio falls just 27%. These low levels of depreciation - helped considerably by its low front-end prices - mean the Laguna beats all Japanese rivals as well as the European ones.

In cash terms, this means a Laguna 2.0 RT buyer selling now will only lose £3,050 over two years compared to, for example, a Passat 2.0 CL buyer who will be faced with £7,224. A Clio 1.4 RT customer will only lose £2,520 while a Rover Metro 1.4 Si owner will lose £4,480.