Bigger, bolder and better...

Bigger, bolder and better value – that will be Renault’s new Laguna! The family car hasn’t only been comч­pletely revised, but it costs on average чЈ300 less than its predecessor.

Prices start at чЈ15,990 for the base Expression hatch, and rise to чЈ24,350 for the Sport Tourer Initiale estate.

What’s more, Renault has cut the difference between load-lugging and hatchback verч­sions by чЈ150 to чЈ950, while the three-year warranty now covers up to 100,000 miles’ driving.

The newcomer comes in a choice of four trims: Expression, Dynamique, Dynamique S – which replaces the Privч­ilège spec – and flagship Initiale. All get six airbags, air-con, a 60-watt CD stereo with RDS, electric mirч­rors and windows, ABS, alloys and stabilч­ity and traction control.

Buyers can add the Comfort, Comfort Plus or S option packs, from чЈ500, which bring extras such as auto lights and wipers, and climate control. The 168bhp 2.0-litre petrol turbo is taken from the previous car, but there is a new 2.0 16v petrol engine, plus 1.5 and 2.0 dCi diesels, with the latter having a choice of outputs. Six-speed manual and auto boxes are offered.

The hatch is available to order now, with the Sport Tourer folч­lowing next month.