Moscow International Motor Show: Renault Latitude

Renault is giving the world premiere to its new saloon in Moscow. This elegant car combines balanced proportions, with classic design, generous exterior dimensions, roominess and a large boot. This saloon embodies the best technical advances in terms of reliability and efficiency, and is destined to become the flagship model of Renault's range of cars. Latitude goes on sale in Russia in the autumn and will then be released in a further 50 countries around the world.

With such generous external dimensions (length – 4,887mm; width – 1,832mm; height – 1,483mm), Latitude easily falls into the category of large saloon. The wheelbase stretches 2.76 metres and the front and rear overhangs are 1.02 metres and 1.1 metres respectively. The intelligent adaptive bi-xenon headlights compliment the contours of the chrome grill. The boot compartment is one of the best in the category: 477 litres (511 litres without the spare wheel). The size of the optional electric panoramic sunroof makes it stand out from others in the category.

The vehicle and onboard comfort controls are all within easy reach with all located around the steering wheel and central console. The interior features; chromed door handles, dial rims, and gear lever, all emphasising the car's status as a business class saloon. Customers can either choose between a dark grey interior with dark leather, and a dark beige interior with beige leather.

Latitude was developed using the combined expertise of Renault and Nissan. The comfortable and silent driving experience, precise handling chassis, and high tech engine give it the decisive edge over its rivals. Latitude inherited the front part of the chassis from Laguna, which is well known for its excellent handling, whilst the rear multi-link suspension from Nissan provides an unrivalled level of comfort. These features actively dampen bumps and other irregularities in the road, remove vibrations, thereby smoothing the whole car driving experience, and making it equal to the best cars in its class.

Latitude will propose a wide range of engines and six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes which customers in different countries will be able to choose from. The 2.0 dCi (M9R) is available in a choice of power outputs: 110 and 127 kW (150 and 175 hp). For some markets there will also be the choice of V6 dCi (V9X) with 177 kW (240 hp) or a petrol V6 3.5 litre (V4Y), also with 177kW (240hp).

In terms of quality and reliability Latitude features components designed by the Alliance and assembled according to its standards. The vehicle thus benefits from the excellent results achieved by Renault in these areas. The Renault Samsung Technical Centre (RSTC) at Giheung, near Seoul, has taken charge of the project on the basis of elements pre-determined by Renault. Teams from Renault Samsung Motors have worked closely with Renault's and Nissan's teams on all aspects of production of Latitude, from validation and design to development and manufacture. Renault Samsung Motors has been market leader in South Korea for eight years running and quality of design and build is part of the company's DNA and is widely acclaimed by customers. Constant emphasis is placed on service quality, not only at point of sale but throughout the vehicle's life.

Safety has always been the first priority in the development of this car. There is a whole range of safety features: ABS, EBA (emergency brake assist), EBD (electronic brake distribution), ESC (electronic stability control) as well as passive safety features: eight adaptive airbags, passenger and driver restraint and load limiter seat belts. Latitude has the same two-tier side impact sensors and dual chamber airbags as the Laguna.

Latitude is the embodiment of the international Renault Company. Developed in France and South Korea and incorporating elements of the platform from Renault and Nissan, this automobile incorporates all the best achievements in terms of technology, the fields of aerodynamics, safety, comfort and quality.

Latitude is manufactured in South Korea in the Busan Renault-Samsung-Motors plant. This production site is respectful of the environment and is certified ISO 14 001 and has great experience in the production of cars of higher automotive segments. Today, together with Latitude, the Busan factory produces Renault-Samsung-Motors models SM3, SM5, SM7, QM5 and Renault Koléos.

Latitude will make its first public appearance at the Moscow Motor Show, and will go on sale at the end of September in Morocco and Algeria, then in Russia and Ukraine and in Africa.

The European version will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show and will feature a specific engine line-up, fascia and exterior detail.

Credits: wilswong