Used Renault Laguna Coupe 2007 - 2012 review

Big, bold coupes are a niche vehicle these days, so the Renault Laguna coupe is a rarity on UK roads.

A generous specification means you get a lot of car for your money and, because the Coupe has never sold in large numbers, you'll be driving something that feels just that little bit special.

It's certainly good to look at but, despite the svelte bodywork, it's still a Laguna underneath, so you get the same interior design as the hatchback and estate model. Having said that, the cabin is well finished and comfortable.

There are four seats, although the limited legroom and sloping roofline make it a bit of a squeeze in the back for tall passengers.

The diesel models not only provide far more miles per gallon than the petrols, they're also cheaper to tax and have better resale values. However, the Laguna won't hang on to its value as well as coupes such as the BMW 3 Series.

The 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel manages an average of 47.3mpg, with the 176bhp version at 43.4mpg and the V6 at 39.2mpg. In contrast, the 2.0 petrol model manages 34.4mpg and the 3.5 V6 28.2mpg.

The 2.0 diesel emits 157g/km of CO2, the higher-powered version 172g/km and the V6 192g/km. The petrols start at 194g/km for the 2.0-litre model and rise to 238g/km for the V6.

As these cars age, and the cost of fuel rises, the diesels will prove the safest buy. Consider a petrol model only if it's cheap to begin with.

Servicing costs are higher than those of the standard Laguna, but shop around for the best deal because prices can vary - especially at franchised dealers.

Of the five engines available, we'd recommend the 2.0-litre diesel, with either 148bhp or 176bhp. The lower-powered version is the more common, and gives decent pace and reasonable running costs, while the 176bhp version (available only in GT trim) is genuinely fast.

There is also a 232bhp 3.0 V6 diesel, which comes with an automatic gearbox. Petrol options include a turbocharged 201bhp 2.0-litre and an automatic-only 3.5 V6 with 235bhp. The first is acceptable, but won't hold its value that well, while the second is fast yet expensive to run.

Two versions of the Laguna are available: standard and GT. The GT comes with an advanced four-wheel-steering system, revised suspension set-up and higher-performance brakes and tyres. It offers a noticeable improvement on the standard model, with better balance and steering feel.

Standard equipment includes climate control, Bluetooth, 18-inch alloys and sports seats, while the GT model adds leather upholstery, cruise control and keyless entry and ignition.

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