Renault Latitude is a new addition to the Renault range. It is a large saloon, with a length of 4,897mm, a width of 1,832mm, a height of 1,483mm, a 2,762mm wheelbase and front and rear overhangs of 1,035mm and 1,100mm respectively.
At the front, the bi-Xenon cornering headlights set either side of the chrome grille contribute to the model's unmistakable poise. The lines of these lights extend rearward via a waistline that sweeps around the body and across the boot to produce a particularly elegant stance. The sculpted wheel arches and long bonnet accentuate the model's highend status.
Modern styling details include the rear lighting signature which employs a blend of LED and conventional technologies.
The panoramic electric glass sunroof provides a brightly lit cabin, while its gloss black finish gracefully prolongs the rake of the windscreen to the rear window. Renault Latitude's style is further asserted by the smart chrome arch which frames the side windows.
AN INVITING INTERIOR
As the doors open, the instrument panel's centrally-located TFT (Thin Film Transistor) colour screen gradually lights up to welcome the driver onboard. Then, when the engine is fired up, the LED backlit instruments come to life as the needles sweep across the two gauges and the graduations appear.
The spacious, extensively-equipped cabin of the cars marketed in Europe is equipped with a specific, luxurious dashboard made from quality materials. The curvaceous lines of this dash's upper structure combine harmoniously with the vertical forms of the broad centre console. The controls for the driver aids and travelling comfort features fall readily to hand and are clustered either around the steering wheel or on the console.
The same attention has been paid to the quality and finish of the rest of the interior. Depending on version, the cabin comes with a number of slush-moulded parts and chrome details, including the door handles and gear lever knob, as well as a choice of light or dark leather upholstery. Similar care has gone into the trim itself in order to obtain distinct ambiances for the different equipment levels, allowing customers to choose between an elegant, light-hued interior which places the accent on the wellbeing of occupants, or a darker trim.
OCCUPANTS PAMPERED BY RENAULT LATITUDE'S COMFORT-ENHANCING APPOINTMENTS
Passengers benefit from a spacious cabin, with those at the rear enjoying a remarkable 251mm of kneeroom, as well as an elbow room of 1,474mm.
This sensation of wellbeing is accentuated by the cabin's carefully engineered acoustics. The design, quality and seal of the doors and windows, the inserts employed for the body's hollow sections and the use of single-piece soundproofing for the front bulkhead all contribute to minimising cabin noise. The twin-mass flywheel damper that equips the dCi 150, dCi 175 and V6 dCi 240 engines, and the balancer shafts of the 2.0 16V 140 and dCi 175 engines also play a part in ensuring a particularly silent ride.
Other features designed to enhance travelling comfort include:
* A 9.6-litre lit, chilled glovebox,
* 2.4 litres of compartmented stowage space in the front part of the centre console,
* Front and rear door bins,
* A cubby underneath the steering wheel,
* Sunglasses case,
* Map pockets on the front seat backs,
* Folding table incorporating two cup-holder over the middle rear seat and two cup-holders in the front console.
The 511dm3 (VDA / ISO) boot (477dm3 with spare wheel) is amongst the biggest to be found in Renault Latitude's class. Loading is facilitated by the low sill (723mm), while the incorporation of part of the rear light clusters on the boot lid ensures a particularly broad aperture (993mm).
The 60/40-split rear benchseat enables carrying capacity to be adapted to meet the owner's needs of the moment and notably permits long or bulky items to be transported.
A RANGE OF EXCLUSIVE, HIGH-END APPOINTMENTS GEARED TO THE WELLBEING OF OCCUPANTS
A great deal of thought went into ensuring that Renault Latitude's quiet and comfortable cabin provides the driver and passengers alike with a reassuringly relaxing ride. Premium features include a four-mode driver's massage seat, a new dual-mode air ioniser and a double scent diffuser. The list continues with a comprehensive choice of audio systems, including the core-range 3D Sound by Arkamys® system and the high-end Bose® Sound System, plus the integrated Carminat TomTom® Live or Carminat Bluetooth® DVD navigation systems, as well as Bluetooth® telephony and Plug&Music digital connectivity.
A MASSAGE DRIVER'S SEAT WHICH TAKES ITS INSPIRATION FROM LUXURY SALOONS
The five pneumatic rollers located in the driver's seat back provide up to four different massage modes (continuous, intermittent, soft and firm).
The quiet, precise, synchronised soothing action of these supple rollers across the driver's back delivers a relaxing experience that is especially appreciated on longer journeys or when caught up in congested traffic.
The controls fall readily to hand, enabling the driver to activate the function, concentrate on one of three zones (shoulder blades, mid back, lumbar region), choose between the four available modes and/or switch on the seat warmer.
CABIN-AIR PURIFICATION SYSTEM: A FIRST FOR THE RENAULT RANGE
Significant attention has also been paid to thermal comfort. For optimal efficiency, especially in markets where strong sunshine and/or humidity can be a problem, Renault Latitude is equipped with triple-zone automatic climate control incorporating a unique airquality control system comprising a dual-mode ioniser and a double scent diffuser.
This system enables occupants to select the temperature and fan speed they prefer using the front-mounted 'Soft', 'Auto' and 'Fast' switch:
* The 'Auto' mode optimises thermal and acoustic comfort and swiftly adjusts the system to an appropriate setting,
* The quiet 'Soft' mode places the emphasis on effective distribution,
* The 'Fast' mode ensures rapid ventilation of the whole cabin.
This feature combines with the unique, relaxing air-purification system which functions in conjunction with the activated-carbon air/pollen filter and toxicity sensor. Renault Latitude uses a Samsung Super Plasma® air ioniser based on the same climate control unit as Renault Laguna and developed in association with Samsung Electronics Co., a world leader in this field.
The dual-mode ioniser's contribution to the wellbeing of occupants is enhanced by its purifying function which significantly reduces the amount of bacteria and allergens that are found naturally in confined cabin air. The air recycling mode is automatically triggered when the toxicity sensor detects an excessive quantity of harmful gases.
The driver and passengers also benefit from the diffusion of scents by two interchangeable cartridges situated in the dashboard. Two cartridges (Blue Ocean and Mango) are delivered with the vehicle, while replacements are available from Renault dealerships where customers can choose from six different fragrances: Blue Ocean, Mango, Red Berries, Green Nature, Herbal Tea and Precious Flowers.
In addition to the type of fragrance, the strength of the scent can also be selected (three modes), while the diffusion frequency, and the use of a bespoke fan and air vents make this system unique in the car's segment.
AUDIO SYSTEMS THAT PLACE THE EMPHASIS ON QUALITY AND CONNECTIVITY
For customers looking for a high performance surround-sound experience and accurate sound reproduction, Renault Latitude can be ordered with an audio system developed in association with Arkamys®. The 3D Sound by Arkamys® system incorporates:
* Eight loudspeakers (four mid-range speakers and four tweeters),
* Arkamys® digital sound processing for accurate, threedimensional sound-surround reproduction,
* Dual aerial for optimal audio reception,
* Bluetooth® connectivity gives drivers access to the functions of their telephone via the car's steering wheelmounted controls,
* Plug&Music connectivity enables music stored on a USB key, portable player, iPod® or smartphone to be played through the car's own audio system. Menus and playlists are displayed on the dashboard.
BOSE®: TAILOR-ENGINEERED SOUND
To guarantee high-quality sound reproduction and listening enjoyment for all Renault Latitude's occupants, Renault has joined forces with Bose®.
The latter's engineers started from a clean sheet, taking into account not only the materials found inside Latitude's cabin but also more than one thousand acoustic readings.
The number, type and position of the Bose® loudspeakers used for the system were carefully selected, while the digital processors and signal equalizers were tuned to match the car's sonic profile.
Engineering teams from Bose® and Renault then worked closely together to develop the system which delivers an exceptional audio experience.
The Bose® Sound System engineered for Renault Latitude comprises 10 loudspeakers and a digital amplifier incorporating a Bose sound processor and six-channel individualised equaliser.
The dashboard-mounted centrefill speaker permits passengers to benefit from clear sound and a correctly situated sound centre, whether they are seated on the left- or right-hand side of the car.
The rear parcel shelf incorporates a 23cm-diametre loudspeaker for rich, realistic bass reproduction.
The Bose® system available for Renault Latitude delivers maximum enjoyment and a uniquely realistic listening experience thanks to crystal clear high tones and rich bass sounds, wherever occupants are seated.
At low volumes, the driver and passengers profit from a warm, balanced sound that allows them to benefit from all the nuances of the original recording. Higher volumes enable the system to deliver its full potential without distortion.
Renault Latitude is also equipped with an audible parking proximity sensor coupled with a reversing camera. To facilitate safe reversing, the camera provides a view of the zone situated behind the vehicle on the navigation system's display. On the dashboard screen, meanwhile, a colour-coded image indicates the trajectory to follow to park, while a second image shows the path the car is in the process of taking based on the position of the steering wheel.
The list of practical equipment continues with features like handsfree entry and ignition, and doors that automatically lock as the card-holder walks away from the vehicle.
The cruise control/speed limiter interface is simple and fun to use:
* Cruise control mode: a green cursor indicates the selected speed on the speedometer,
* Speed limiter mode: in this case, the cursor is orange, but becomes red if the driver exceeds the selected speed.
The electronic parking brake facilitates hill starts and is a particularly practical feature for everyday motoring. It can be activated manually using the control situated on the centre console and is automatically applied when the engine is switched off. It is released by simply pressing on the accelerator pedal with the engine running.
A CAREFULLY-ENGINEERED BLEND OF COMFORT AND PERFORMANCE, AND A CHOICE OF MODERN ENGINES
Renault Latitude's chassis incorporates an efficient multi-link rear suspension for enhanced ride comfort and driving pleasure. This arrangement combines rigorous steering precision with efficient filtration of vibrations and road noise. The available powertrains, which include the V6 dCi 240, count among the range's best performing engines.
A CAREFULLY-ENGINEERED BLEND OF COMFORT AND DYNAMIC PERFORMANCE
Renault Latitude employs the same front suspension as Renault Laguna and is widely acclaimed for its precision. It uses a MacPherson-type layout with a rectangular lower arm and a 21.5mmdiametre antiroll bar.
Based on a Nissan development, the rear suspension employs a multi-link arrangement which was selected for its remarkable efficiency and ride comfort thanks to its ability to soak up irregularities in the road surface and isolate the cabin from vibrations.
The combination of springs calibrated at 16mm/100DaN and 19mm/100DaN at the front and rear respectively and work on damping ensures outstanding vertical suspension performance and optimised body roll without detracting from ride comfort.
Renault Latitude's big brakes ensure durable stopping power. Thanks to its 296mm or 320mm-dameter ventilated front discs (depending on engine) and 300mm-diameter rear discs, the car comes to a halt in just 39.5 metres after repeated stopping from 100kph.
Five tyre sizes are available depending on engine and equipment level: 195/60 R16, 215/55 R16, 225/50 R17, 225/45 R18 et 235/45 R18.
For enhanced driving enjoyment along twisty roads, Renault Latitude's precise, low-ratio power steering comes with a stiffened column. Thanks to a ratio of 16:1 (i.e. a 16-degree turn of the steering wheel turns the wheel by one degree), manoeuvring is facilitated and the car's handling is nimbler. The stiffer feel and reduced play allow motorists to benefit from a more direct feel and more precise feedback from the road by reducing the response time between the moment an instruction is given via the steering wheel and the moment the car turns. Versions powered by the V6 dCi 240 engine are equipped with variable-rate hydraulic power steering. The other versions feature an active electric pump unit which allows the amount of power assistance to be fine-tuned as a function of the rate of the electric pump, which itself is dictated by the driving conditions. This rate depends on the speed and required level of power assistance (speed, steering wheel angle), a solution which benefits fuel consumption by electrically optimising the input of the pump.
A COHERENT RANGE OF ADVANCED ENGINES
The efficient engine E85-compatible 2.0 16V petrol (M4R) delivers peak power of 103kW (140hp) at 6,000rpm. Mated to a manual six-speed gearbox, it is particularly responsive at low engine speeds, with maximum torque of 195Nm available at 3,750rpm. It permits the 1,000-metre standing start to be covered in a little over 30 seconds.
Diesel
The quiet, efficient 2.0-litre dCi (M9R) comes in a choice of two power outputs: 110kW and 127kW (150hp and 175hp). Mated to a manual gearbox (PK4), they deliver peak torque of 340Nm and 380Nm respectively at 2,000rpm, while the particularly fuel-efficient 150hp version emits less than 140g of CO2/km (combined cycle, with manual gearbox). Driving through automatic transmission (AJ0), the responsive dCi 175 returns combined cycle fuel consumption of just 6.5 litres/100km and boasts maximum torque of 360Nm at 2,000rpm.
The Renault Latitude range also includes the Alliance's latest Renault-developed six-cylinder engine, namely the 3.0 V6 dCi (V9X) which develops 177kW (240hp) at 3,750rpm. Maximum torque (450Nm) is available from 1,500rpm to combine energetic performance (1,000-metre standing start in 28.2 seconds) with contained combined cycle fuel consumption (7.2 litres/100km, equivalent to 188g of CO2/km).
RIGOROUSLY DESIGNED FOR EXACTING MOTORISTS
To guarantee a level of reliability and durability that matches the demanding conditions encountered in majority of its markets, Renault Latitude was put through its paces during an intensive endurance testing programme. Development work also focused on delivering superior safety performance and the model comes with a comprehensive list of equipment, including standard ABS and emergency brake assist, as well as ESC, adaptive airbags, three-point seat belts (with pretensioners and load limiters), cruise control with speed limiter.
RELIABILITY AND DURABILITY PROVEN IN ENDURANCE TESTS CARRIED OUT IN EXTREME CONDITIONS
In the course of its development, Renault Latitude underwent an extensive endurance testing programme in punishing conditions (extreme heat, extreme cold, poor roads, dust, etc.). More than 30 test vehicles were employed, accumulating almost 1.1 million kilometres in total. The brief was particularly exacting to make sure that Renault Latitude is capable of taking the sort of demanding road conditions found in the majority of its markets in its stride.
Like all Renault's high-end vehicles, Renault Latitude comes with a three year or 150,000km warranty and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty.
SAFETY PERFORMANCE ENGINEERED TO MATCH CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONS AND REAL WORD SITUATIONS
Like all the vehicles that make up the Renault range, Latitude's benefits significantly from the work carried out by LAB[1], as well as from the brand's own engineering expertise which was used to develop the most efficient response to the real world situations encountered in the different markets where Renault Latitude will be sold:
* ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution,
* Emergency brake assist and automatic activation of hazard warning lights,
* ESC (Electronic Stability Control) with CSV understeer control,
* Cruise control with speed limiter,
* Tyre pressure monitoring system,
* Adaptive bi-Xenon cornering headlights,
* Adaptive driver and front passenger airbags, two dual-chamber thorax-groin lateral airbags (combined with twin side-impact sensors) and two curtain airbags,
* Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiter for all occupants,
* Driver/front passenger Seat Belt Reminder and 'seat belt fastened' light for the three rear seats,
* Three-point Isofix anchorage for outer rear seats.
A STRONG COMMITMENT ON THE ENVIRONMENTAL FRONT
Thanks to its carefully-honed aerodynamics, contained weight for its size (average for the model: 1,550kg) and the availability of two versions which qualify for the Renault eco² signature, Latitude provides further evidence of Renault's ongoing efforts in favour of the environment.
The 2.0 16V 140 E85 and manual dCi 150 versions of Renault Latitude qualify for the Renault eco² signature which means they comply with the three following criteria:
* CO2 emissions must be less than 140g/km, or the engine must be capable of running on biofuel,
* Renault eco² cars must be manufactured in an ISO 14001-cerified factory (in this case: Busan, Korea),
* Renault eco² cars must be 95 percent end-of-life recoverable, while at least five per cent of the plastic they contain must be sourced from recycling.
Renault Latitude is 95 per cent end-of-life recoverable (by weight), and more than five per cent of the plastics it contains (average for the model: 11kg) are sourced from recycling.
LATITUDES HIGH AND LOW
Renault Latitude stands out as an eloquent symbol of Renault's internationalisation. Designed jointly in France and Korea, and with assemblies developed by Renault and Nissan, it provides owners with the best of the Renault group's and the Alliance's know-how.
Renault Latitude is manufactured at Renault-Samsung-Motors' Busan plant in Korea. This environmentally respectful, ISO 14001-certified factory boasts long experience of the production of quality, high-end cars (SM5, SM7, QM5, Renault Koleos). Meanwhile, all the diesel engines and manual gearboxes that feature in the range are made at Renault's Cléon plant in France.
Designed for a global market, essentially outside of Europe, Renault Latitude joins Renault's international line-up of saloons at the very top.
