Renault Fluence Overview

Renault has marked its return in India by launching the luxury sedan Renault Fluence. The luxury car market is currently ruled by other sedans like Honda Civic, Skoda Laura and Volkswagen Jetta. New Renault Fluence strongly competes against these cars to prove its existence in India. Renault Fluence is offered in the country in a complete knock down form (CKD). The Renault Fluence cars are manufactured on Renault-Nissan C platform, which promises the performance of the car.

The company has launched two variants of Renault Fluence in the country, among which one is petrol and other is diesel. Engines packed in both the variants are different and the features of these variants also differ. The petrol version of Fluence is packed with a 2.0 litre petrol engine, which is fitted with a six speed CVT transmission. Moreover, the diesel variant is equipped with 1.5 litre engine that produces 112 bhp of power. Both of these variants are highly powerful and deliver optimum power.

Renault Fluence Launch History

The all new Renault Fluence was launched in the Indian automobile market on 23rd May 2011. With the launch of Fluence in India, the company again confirmed its re-entry in this market. After the breach of contract with Mahindra, Renault did not launch any new model in this market since a long time. But now the French auto manufacturer has come up with a giant sedan, which is packed with numerous luxury and comfort attributes.

At the launch event, the petrol variant of Fluence was priced around Rs. 14.4 lacs, whereas the diesel one was priced at 12.99 lacs (ex-showroom Delhi). Low price along with ultimate comfort features helped Renault Fluence in providing hardcore competition to other automobile giants.

The CKD parts of Renault Fluence are imported from the Turkey plant of the company, but Renault also uses local materials to lower the cost of its sedan. Even though the company is new in the Indian market, Marc Nassif (Renault India managing director) claimed that the company will have fourteen dealerships in major 12 cities.

Renault Fluence Variants

Renault has launched two variants of its Renault Fluence model, one is petrol and another is diesel. These models are named as Renault Fluence Petrol and Renault Fluence Diesel. Both of these variants are packed with different engines, which also differ in power and torque emissions. The petrol as well as diesel variant includes same features but some additional attributes are also provided in the petrol variant.

The diesel variant of Renault Fluence cars is equipped with rear air conditioner ducts, smart access card entry and engine start/stop button. Moreover, equipment like power steering, tilt telescopic steering, glove box and outer rear view mirror are also incorporated within the Renault Fluence cars.

Apart from these features, the petrol variants of Renault Fluence is also packed with some of the additional features, such as dual zone automatic climate control and rear air conditioner vents. Moreover, automatic headlamp on feature, cruise control, speed limiter, rain sensitive wiper system, rear parking sensors, rear sun-blinds and electro chrome rear view mirror are also loaded in the new Renault Fluence cars.

Renault Fluence Pricing

New Renault Fluence car price is quite reasonable, considering the luxury aspect. The new Fluence car price varies between diesel and petrol variant, depending upon their features. One can buy a diesel version of Renault Fluence in a price range of Rs. 12.9 lacs to Rs. 13.1 lacs. Moreover, the petrol variant of Renault Fluence lies in a price bracket of Rs. 14.3 lacs and Rs. 14.5 lacs.

Renault Fluence Review

The looks of both the variants are decent and sporty but the Renault is yet to prove its performance in India. Exteriors of new Renault Fluence India have great outskirts and perfectly finished body. The material used in the body of Fluence is mainly imported, which clearly states its quality. Steering of new Renault Fluence cars is precise and provides a complete on road experience to the driver of the car.

Moreover, it is equipped with a good boot space that enables one to carry large volume of luggage on trips. The running cost of both variants is also quiet less as it runs around 21 kmpl in the diesel fuel and around 13.5 kmpl in petrol. Fuel efficiency is must in the present time, when fuel prices are rising high. Hence, this attribute strengthens Renault Fluence position in India.

Renault Fluence Used Car Market

Renault has launched two models in the Indian automotive market and both the models are recently launched by the company. Since Renault Fluence is a new launch, it is not available in the pre owned market.

Renault Fluence Specifications

The company has launched two variants in its Renault Fluence series. One of these variants is a petrol version, whereas the other one is diesel version. The petrol version is equipped with a Spark ignition, multipoint injection engine that has a displacement of 19997 cc. This engine includes four in line cylinders and it produces a maximum power of 135 bhp at 6000 rpm, whereas the maximum torque generated by these engines is 190 Nm at a low 3700 rpm. This powerful engine of new Renault Fluence is duly assisted by an advanced CVT II with 6 speed Manual transmission, which also effects in increased acceleration of the car.

Renault Fluence diesel is packed with a direct injection diesel engine, which is equipped with four in-line cylinders. The total displacement of this engine is 1461 cc and it delivers power of 104 bhp at 4000 rpm, whereas the maximum torque generated by the engine is 240 Nm at a fairly low 2000 rpm. A six speed manual transmission supports the engine of new Renault Fluence 2011.

Renault Fluence Exterior

The slanting hood of Renault Fluence has a sharp front, which distinct it from other sedans. Front profile of the Renault Fluence provides it a sporty stance, which is widely appreciated by the car enthusiasts. The front logo of Renault is precisely embedded on the front hood grille, which provides a classy look to the car. Sleek headlights of Fluence are embedded in the front small grille that creates a dashing appearance.

Exterior Appearance

The tail lights are perfectly cornered at rear, with the logo placed in the centre stage of vehicle. Exteriors of Renault Fluence are managed well to impress car lovers. The luxurious sedan Renault Fluence comes with electronically powered ORVMs in body colour and silver finish door handles, which adds to the appearance of the car. Moreover, doors of this vehicle have embossed waistlines and also ensure wide opening to facilitate comfortable entry and exit of passengers.

Exterior Dimensions

Criteria	Dimensions
Wheel Base	2703 mm
Width	1813 mm
Length	4618 mm
Height	1488 mm
Ground Clearance	170 mm

Renault Fluence Interior

The interiors of petrol version of Renault Fluence are better in terms of looks as compared to the diesel variant. Dual tone interiors and beige leather upholstery are provided for the petrol version and the diesel one is left with darker and gloomy interiors with just fabric upholstery.

Interior Appearance

Instrument panel of the car is highlighted by the analog tachometer to the left, digital speedometer in the centre and display to the right for driving information. The centred dashboard of Renault Fluence cars features air-conditioning controls and audio system for the diesel version and auto climate control and audio system for the petrol variant. Most of the buttons and knobs are nicely placed, so that these are easy to access. Moreover, some controls are oddly placed, which are low on practicality like audio & phone controls behind the steering wheel, bonnet release lever is in the passenger side and cruise control.

Interior Comfort

New Renault Fluence is a comfortable car and it has various comfort attributes. For each zone, the preferred temperature is automatically maintained by the air-conditioning system. Rear seats of this car also offer ample space with under thigh support and great recline angle. The headroom of the car is restricted in the rear due to the slanting roof but the head rests provide maximum comfort to the passengers during long drives.

Interior Measurements

Interiors of Renault Fluence are quite spacious with many levels of comforts. The vehicle is equipped with ample space for the leg room at the front as well as rears. Head room of the car is also quite sufficient and enables a one to easily accommodate in the car and easy entry/exit from the vehicle.

Renault Fluence Fuel Economy

The fuel economy of Renault Fluence car is quite impressive in both the variants. Renault Fluence petrol delivers an impressive mileage of 13.4 kmpl, whereas the diesel version provides mileage of 21.8 kmpl. These figures are based on the test results of Rule 115 of Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) 1989.

Renault Fluence On Road Drive

The restrained CVT transmission enhances the on road performance of new Renault Fluence petrol. Diesel variant of Renault Fluence is packed with a six speed manual transmission, which also contributes towards the performance of the car.

The suspensions equipped within the Renault Fluence 2011 are supported by advanced technology. These suspensions prepare the car to face all irregularities of Indian roads, mainly on high speeds. Braking system is excellent and it provides maximum protection against all odds.

Renault Fluence Power

Renault Fluence cars are available in both 2.0 L petrol and a 1.5 L diesel options. The 2.0 L petrol version produces a maximum power of 135 bhp at 6000 rpm, whereas the maximum torque generated by this engine is 190 Nm at a low 3700 rpm. However, the diesel engine generates maximum power of 104 bhp at 4000 rpm and produces a maximum torque of 240 Nm at a fairly low 2000 rpm. The power emissions of both the variants are quite impressive and results in higher performance of the car.

Renault Fluence Acceleration and Pick Up

Both the variants of new Renault Fluence cars are brilliantly powered by their respective engines. With a 2.0 L engine, the petrol version smoothly glides between 0 and 100 kmph within a short span of 13.5 seconds, which is quiet impressive. The diesel variant of this car is equipped with 1.5 litre engine, which helps the car in crossing 100 kmph mark from initial within 14 seconds. Acceleration of a car partially depends on smooth, perfect as well as easy transmission of gears and Renault Fluence cars have these attributes.

Renault Fluence Safety and Security

Safety and Security features of both the variants of Renault Fluence cars are similar. These features include anti lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability programme (ESP), anti skid regulation (ASR), front fog lamps and anti rust warranty. Moreover, supplemental restraint system (SRS) airbags for both driver and passenger and ISOFIX are also provided in the new Renault Fluence cars. ISOFIX is a special feature by which the child seats can be fitted into the car without the use of adult seatbelts.

Moreover, the petrol variant of Renault Fluence is packed with side chest level airbags, which are placed in the front seats to reduce the effect of collision. This is an extra ordinary feature, which is only available in this variant.

Renault Fluence Comfort and Convenience

Both the variants of Renault Fluence are equipped with many advanced features to provide convenience and comfort to its occupants. These comfort features prove useful during long journeys.

Some standard features of Renault Fluence cars include air conditioner ducts, smart access card entry and engine start/stop button. Apart from these features, the new Renault Fluence incorporates some additional equipment, such as power steering; tilt telescopic steering, glove box and outer rear view mirror.

The petrol variants of new Renault Fluence is equipped with some extra features like dual zone automatic climate control, rear parking sensors and rear air conditioner vents. Moreover, speed limiter, rear sun-blinds, automatic headlamp on feature, rain sensitive wiper system, cruise control, and electro chrome rear view mirror are also provided in Renault Fluence 2011.

Renault Fluence Wheels

Renault Fluence car is packed with optimum quality tyres, which helps it in fully utilizing the energy produced by the engine. Alloy wheels that have the wheel rim size of 6.5 x J 16 also contributes towards the look of this car. Moreover, 205/60 R 16 tubeless tyres are provided in new Renault Fluence.

Renault Fluence Stereo and Accessories

The company also provides a superior quality audio system to maintain the music ambience of the car. CD MP3 player with Radio, steering mounted audio controls, CBOX (digital socket: USB) (auxiliary input only), and central display are audio facilities of Renault Fluence cars. Furthermore, the audio system of petrol version includes few additional options like CBOX (digital socket: USB) and Bluetooth connectivity.

Renault Fluence Dealers

Renault has maintained a fair network of its authorised dealerships in the country. With its few dealership stores, the company markets its cars in India. Renault has based its stores in many states like Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Following are the authorised dealers of Renault Fluence in India.

Location	Dealership
New Delhi	Renault Delhi West Renault Rama Road
Bangalore	Renault Palace Orchards
Mumbai	Renault Andheri Renault Chandivali Renault Shivaji Nagar
Chennai	Renault Mount Road
Kolkata	Renault Chowringhee

Renault Fluence Company Quotes

"The Renault Fluence was designed for the Asian market and hence we are confident that it will not only shake up the segment, but also give the Indian customer their first taste of what Renault is capable of bringing to the Indian market," said by Renault India Managing Director Marc Nassif.

Marc Nassif, Managing Director, Renault India, said, “It is a proud moment for us at Renault India to launch not only the Renault Fluence, our first built-in-India car, but also to introduce the Renault brand to our Indian customers”. India, he said, was one of the three key countries in Renault's international development strategy. The other two were Brazil and Russia, he added.

Addressing a press conference, Sudhir Rao, Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Country Managing Director of Renault Group, said “The pricing strategy was arrived at after taking a closer look at the customer profile of car owners. Diesel car owners, he said, always focussed on the cost of ownership and lower operating cost. The petrol car buyers, however, looked for comfort and, hence, were willing to pay more for additional features”.

Renault Fluence Competitor Analysis

Main competitors of Fluence are Chevrolet Cruze, Toyota Corolla Altis and Honda Civic. All these cars are launched in the same segment but their engine and features varies.

Chevrolet Cruze is a luxurious sedan, which is launched in the D segment. This car is packed with a VCDI diesel engine, which has a displacement of 1991 cc. The maximum power produced by the engine of this car is 148 bhp at 4000 rpm, whereas the maximum torque generated is 327 Nm at a low 2600 rpm. Chevrolet Cruze can easily accommodate five individuals, which makes it a perfect family car. The car has a boot space of 450 litres, whereas the fuel tank capacity is 60 litres.

Toyota Corolla Altis is incorporated with a VVT-i petrol engine that has a displacement of 1794 cc. The maximum power produced by the engine of this car is 138 bhp at 6400 rpm, whereas the maximum torque delivered is 173 Nm at 4000 rpm. Powerful engine of this car is assisted by a six speed manual transmission that results in smooth and easy shift of gears.

Honda Civic is fitted with an i-VTEC petrol engine, which has a displacement of 1799 cc. The maximum power churned out by the engine is 132 bhp at 6300 rpm, whereas the maximum torque produced is 175 Nm at 4300 rpm. Turning circle of this car is 5.4 metres and the ground clearance is as low as 170 mm.

Renault Fluence LPG/CNG Variants

Till now, Renault has not launched any LPG/CNG variants in Renault Fluence series.

Renault Fluence Pros

The new Renault Fluence cars are packed with most of advanced options, which add to the efficiency of the car. It has ample room in interiors, which provides a great level of convenience to the occupants of car during long trips. Furthermore, the mileage of Fluence is also an important attribute, which attracts buyers.

Renault Fluence Cons

Looks of the car is quite simple and it does not have any uniqueness in itself. Since the company is new in India, it is yet to establish its trust. Further, the limited dealership of Renault also affects the sales of its cars.

Renault Fluence Conclusion

Being the first launch of Renault in Indian market, Renault Fluence has been successful in gaining respectable market share. The availability of the diesel version further strengthened the company's position in India. Furthermore, the company has not compromised in the safety and comfort features of this car, which is a positive factor for its success.