ರೆನಾಲ್ಟ್ ಫೂಲೇಸ್‌ E2 D

Renault India, the Indian subsidiary of the French automaker has officially launched the facelifted version of Renault Fluence luxury sedan at Indian Auto Expo 2014, New Delhi. This facelifted version comes with several exciting aspects including the new front radiator grille, LED daytime running lights, a satellite navigation module for dashboard and number of other improved features. The company introduced this luxury sedan in two trim levels among which, Renault Fluence E2 D is the base version. This entry level variant sports a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, in-line K9K diesel engine that is coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission gearbox. The engine technicalities and the specifications remains to be the same as the outgoing model and it can produce a peak mileage of 20.4 Kmpl, which is fairly decent. As far as exteriors are concerned, the 2014 version of Fluence looks quite refreshing with more aggressive attributes on its frontage. The company also modified the interiors of this sedan with a new dual toned dashboard with soft touch finish and offered it with a chrome package. On the other hand, the company has retained all the safety features of this sedan from the outgoing model. By launching the refurbished version of Fluence, the company will look to stretch its market share in the luxury car segment of India.

Exteriors:

The 2014 version of Fluence gets a major cosmetic update, especially on its front and rear profiles. On its frontage, this luxury sedan comes with a newly designed radiator grille fitted with an expressively designed chrome strip along with a company logo in the center. The headlight cluster gets a minor tweak and it is being incorporated with projector based halogen headlamps and turn indicator. Its front bumper has a diffuser sort of a design and it is being incorporated with a glossy black finish grille. This air-intake section is surrounded by LED daytime running lights that enhances the visibility ahead in foggy conditions. The rear profile of this sedan gets a refurbished taillight cluster that surrounds an expressively designed boot lid. The rear bumper has been retained from the outgoing model and it is fitted with reflectors that improves the safety. The rear profile of this sedan gets a lot of chrome embellishments, especially on the company logo , model badging and on the exhaust pipe. The side profile of this sedan comes with a set of redesigned Kaleido style 16-inch alloy wheels that enhances the elegance of the side facet. On the whole, the company has managed to bring an eccentric new look to this vehicle that can grab your attention in the first sight.

Interiors:

The car maker has also made changes to the interior section of this sedan with a new color scheme. The company has equipped the cockpit with a redesigned dashboard that has a soft touch finish, which gives a luxurious feel to the occupants. The central console is very neatly designed and it comes equipped with number of features such as AC unit and an advanced audio system with support for portable devices. The steering wheel comes with three spokes and it houses the control switches for receiving calls and audio system. The seats inside the cabin are quite luxurious and they have been covered with premium quality fabric upholstery. The company has installed some of the most important utility features such as illuminated glove box, 4-speakers, central display, front armrest with storage box and cup holder , rear center armrest with cup holder and many other features.

Engine and Performance:

This luxury sedan is powered by a In-line 1.5-litre K9K diesel engine with direct injection system. This engine comprises of 4-cylinders and 16-valves that makes a total displacement capacity of 1461cc . The company engineered this diesel motor on base of DOHC valve configuration that enables it to produce a peak power output of about 108.5bhp at 4000rpm, which will result in generating a peak torque output of 240Nm at just 1850rpm. The manufacturer has skillfully coupled this diesel motor with an advanced 6-speed manual transmission gearbox that allows the front wheels to draw the torque from the engine. The company claims that the vehicle can zoom towards a top speed of about 180 to 185 Kmph, while accelerating from 0 to 100 Kmph in just about 14 to 15 seconds. On the other hand, this four wheeler has the ability to return a mileage of about 20.4 Kmpl, which is quite good.

Braking and Handling:

The front wheels of this sedan has been fitted with a pair ventilated disc brakes, while its rear ones have been assembled with solid disc brakes. This braking mechanism gets further assistance from anti lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution system and brake assist system. The company has installed electronic stabilization program that works with ABS, EBD and brake assist function to give proficient braking , which will enhance the traction and stability of this vehicle. It also comes with anti-slip regulation system, which will reinforce the handling aspects of the vehicle.

Comfort Features:

This Renault Fluence E2 D trim comes with improved features, which include a new instrument panel, a satellite navigation module for the dashboard and so on. The list of other features include power steering with tilt and telescopic function, smart access card entry, semi automatic climate control with pollen filter, electrically adjustable external mirrors with temperature sensor and follow me home headlamps. The company is also offering this sedan with an engine start/stop function, cruise control system, speed limiter and number of other advanced features. Apart from these , there is an advanced central display with hands-free telephonic and Bluetooth connectivity along with USB and Axillary input.

Safety Features:

This top end variant is being offered with a set of advanced safety aspects including front and rear disc brakes with ABS+EBD+BA, electronic stabilization program, anti slip regulation and a speed limiter, which are just to name a few. The company is also offering this sedan with Anti-pinch windows, engine and transmission guard, ISOFIX, safety belts with pretensioners and force limiter, dual front SRS air bags and so on. Also, this sedan is being offered with an anti-rust warranty along with 5-years/1,00,000 kilometers warranty.

Pros: Improved exteriors, cabin space is good.

Cons: Protective features can be made better, high cost of maintenance.