New Car: 2013 Renault Fluence

Surfacing for the first time at this year’s Istanbul motor show is the updated Renault Fluence sedan for the European market. Built in the Oyak-Renault factory in Bursa, Turkey, domestic sales are expected to start in January, while launches in 55 other countries will take place next year.

Two engines are new to the powerplant menu – a 16V 115 petrol and dCi 130 diesel, both displacing 1.6 litres. The petrol unit is mated to an Xtronic CVT, and is claimed to be capable of returning 6.4 litres per 100 km, while the diesel unit manages a claimed 4.6 litres per 100 km. The previously available dCi 110 EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) diesel engine continues to be offered, but Renault does not make any mention of a manual gearbox option.

The inside gets new digital instrumentation and interior upholstery, while the outside gets LED DRLs – and yes, you’ve seen that face before on the DeZir concept, ZOE, Twingo and more lately the fourth-gen Clio.

A new addition across all trim levels is a radio with Bluetooth with USB and auxiliary sockets, while higher-trim cars get Renault’s R-Link touchscreen infotainment system that brings together navigation and telephone function, and in time, access to the R-Link automotive app store.

Other available features include keyless entry with remote central locking, front and rear parking sensors and automatic parking brake.

Unveiled in August 2009, the Renault Fluence’s twin is the Renault Samsung SM3, the 2013 model of which recently launched in Korea. The electric version, called the Fluence ZE, could be coming to Malaysia sometime next year.

Thanks to: Paultan