In January a Sport Tourer version will go on sale, offering more load space than the hatchback and aimed at “lifestyle” drivers, while later in 2008 the sleek Coupé will arrive.
Both will be aiming to build on the positive reaction to the new Laguna hatch – helped by the fact that the car does feel well built with quality materials.
The Sport Tourer will be launched with an engine and trim line-up which echoes the hatchback.
It will command a £950 premium over the hatch.
Keith Hawes, director, fleet and commercial vehicle sales at Renault UK, said: “The Sport Tourer has got the interior space for people moving out of 4x4s. While the upper-medium market has stabilised this year, the estate part of it is growing.
“We’re planning that the Sport Tourer will take 30% of Laguna sales, but I think it could do more than that – perhaps even 40%.”
The Coupé will be a key tool for Renault in attracting user-choosers, as well as moving the brand’s sports focus upwards from the current offering which consists of hot hatchbacks.
The new additions, plus larger capacity V6 petrol and diesel engines, will help Renault build sales after a fall away this year, part of which is down to the decision to cut back on 5,000 units – mainly short-cycle business but also in the Motability sector.
The same decision was taken in 2006.
Next year Renault will also launch the Koleos SUV, the Grand Modus and Clio Sport Tourer.
An all-new Megane will also appear.
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