On April 3, 2012, Renault India launched the new edition of its Fluence sedan, called Renault Fluence Diesel E4D. The company, wholly owned by Renault s.a.s., has introduced this new variant as the top range version of the premium sedan Fluence, which was originally launched in May 2011. This new feature-laden model is poised for resounding success and shows the commitment that Renault India has towards the domestic market.
The all new Renault Fluence Diesel E4D is equipped with a host of luxury features and runs on a new iteration of the French automotive giant's popular 1.5 dCi K9K engine. It stands on the pillars of Comfort, Convenience, Styling, Safety and Technology, which the company will render through this powerful product, the latest in its ever-growing portfolio. This new car will be produced at the company's Oragadam, Chennai plant and will be sold at all Renault outlets spread throughout the country.
During the launch event of the Fluence E4D, Managing Director, Renault India Pvt. Ltd., Marc Nassif, commented, “Fluence was the first offering from Renault in India. We are highly pleased with the product’s performance and it has been very well accepted by the Indian customers. The new upgraded Fluence is all about our commitment to the Indian market and is a result of the feedback we have received from our customers. The new Fluence E4D will be powered by the new generation of Renault’s most successful 1.5 dCi (K9K) engine which will give the best combination of power and fuel efficiency in its class.”
Engine and Transmission
With the new 1.5 dCi motor, Fluence E4D will be able to deliver best in class mileage of 20.4 kmpl, according to Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI). The powertrain will be successful in producing 108 hp of maximum power, while the peak torque output will be 240 Nm. This engine is among the most popular in Renault's line up, with sales of over 1 million units worldwide in 2011 only. It will lower the load losses suffered by vehicles due to its all new Variable Geometric Turbo (VGT) technology.
The air intake route of the 1.5 dCi unit has been streamlined in order to attain higher turbo performance without enhancing the levels of fuel consumption by a notable margin. Furthermore, its reduced inertia turbo response at low engine speeds enables the car to drive through cities easily. Its Piezo injector considerably enhances the combustion capabilities with accurate spray pattern, which consequently improves the power generation capacity. Notably, Fluence E4D boasts of the lowest emission levels in its segment.
Interiors, Space and Exterior
The newest edition of Renault Fluence exemplifies the company's rich heritage of coming up with quality vehicles that render optimum comfort. Its spacious interiors are arranged in such a manner that they deliver unmatched luxury and opulence to the occupants. Likewise, the cabin space of the model demonstrates the amount of thought that the company put into the details, with ample seating space, headroom and leg room for 5 adults.
The driver's seat and adjoining area of Fluence E4D exhibits the emphasis laid down by the car maker in improving visibility and comfort levels. Drivers can easily zero in upon the most suitable driving position due to the model's adjustable seats. Likewise, the automatic dual zone air conditioning and climate control systems with individual vents for rear seats enable the car to deliver more comfort to the occupants.
Some of the notable features of the Renault Fluence Diesel E4D include boot space of 530 litres and deep glove box in dashboard. Its rain and light sensors, rear parking sensors, smart access card entry, 60:40 rear seat split and electrically foldable Outside Rear View Mirrors (ORVMs) also contribute towards an enjoyable driving experience. The car maker has also integrated rear seat centre armrest with cup holders, engine start / stop button, cruise control and leather upholstery rear sunblinds in the car. Renault Fluence Diesel E4D also has a 4 speaker music system with USB, AUX-IN and Bluetooth Connectivity for entertainment on long journeys.
Safety
Keeping passenger and occupant safety in mind, Renault India has included high end safety features such as Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and brake assist. Apart from these, the car also has Anti Slip Regulation (ASR), dual front airbags and side airbags for driver and front passenger, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and load limiters for added safety.
Service Package
In order to offer the best after sales service, the manufacturer provides consumers the 'Renault COMPLETE CARE' service package. It is an internationally benchmarked service offering under which the French car maker delivers a wide variety of class leading facilities, including a 4 year or 80,000 km warranty and labour free service at 2,000, 10,000 and 20,000 km. Along with these, buyers also get access to 24/7 Roadside Assistance via an exclusive customer helpline; valet service; pick up and drop off service and concierge services for navigation and locating hotels and dinning options.
With this unique service package, consumers can ensure themselves of the world class quality of Renault and enjoy a completely hassle-free service experience. COTECH technicians have been specially trained by Renault at its unit in France in order to match the international servicing standards it follows.
Renault s.a.s. established its Indian subsidiary in the year 2005 and joined hands with Mahindra & Mahindra in order to introduce the popular Logan entry level sedan in the domestic market. The company decided to part ways with its Indian partner in April 2010 and came out with its executive sedan Fluence E4 D in May 2011. Presently, it offers the Fluence, luxury Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) Koleos and premium hatchback Pulse in the country. These models are developed at the manufacturer's Alliance plant, located at Oragadam, Chennai, which has annual installed capacity of 2,00,000 units. Presently, Renault India has over 40 dealerships in the nation and aims to raise this number to 100 by the time 2012 concludes. Before 2013 begins, the company plans to have 5 cars across varying segments in its domestic portfolio.
Incepted in the year 1898, Renault s.a.s. has a rich heritage and extremely successful history in manufacturing vehicles. Currently, it develops passenger vehicles and Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) in 18 nations based in 5 continents. The French automotive giant holds the distinction of introducing the first hatchback and the first mass produced turbocharged car in the world. Valued at € 40 billion (US$ 55 billion), Renault Group is engaged in designing, developing, manufacturing and selling unique, safe and eco-friendly vehicles across the globe. It boasts of commercial presence in 118 nations and sells models under three badges, namely Renault, Dacia and Samsung.
Renault forged an alliance with Japanese car maker Nissan in the year 1999; this alliance is considered to be the fourth largest automotive group in the world. The Renault-Nissan alliance endeavours to attain the distinction of being amongst the top 3 automotive companies in terms of quality, technology and profitability.
The French firm showcased a line up of fully electric, zero emission cars recently, which will make their debut in Israel and Denmark in the beginning. Later on, the company will present them in many other European nations. At the international stage, major markets for Renault are India, Brazil, Russia and China. Owing to the strategic partnerships it has in many of these nations, its offerings cater to the varying requirements of the consumers based across the globe.
This company has remained among the most prominent European brands in safety and is the only vehicle maker to have as many as 9 cars with the maximum 5 star rating on the Euro NCAP index. It has also been the winner of the Constructor's title during the 2005, 2006 and 2011 seasons in Formula One via the Red Bull racing team. This shows the manufacturing capabilities of the car maker, which has 1,22,000 personnel across the worldwide, in the high speed racing arena.
