Renault Fluence released
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10th November, 2010
The all-new Renault Fluence is a car that aims to extend
the appeal of an elegantly styled, well-equipped sedan to a broader audience in Australia.
Equipped to a high standard, built to an even higher standard, and armed with an appealing price tag,
the all-new Renault Fluence presents a strong argument to customers looking for space and comfort in the
small car market.
In Australia, the all-new Renault Fluence will play a strong role in the revitalisation of the Renault
brand, extending its reach into new areas of the market with a highly competitive offering. The all-new
Renault Fluence will rank alongside the all-new Megane Hatch and Koleos compact SUV as the volume
leaders.
In terms of size and interior spaciousness, the all-new Renault Fluence is best in class (with an
overall length of 4,618 mm and wheelbase of 2,072 mm), and as a bonus has a very up-market interior
ambience, naturally matched by its exterior styling.
It’s European antecedents and high-quality fit and finish outside and in, will make a strong first
impression, as will the very appealing drive-away price of $25,990 for the manual Dynamique model. A
higher specification Privilege model is also offered.
Both these new products will boosts Renault’s push to carve a more substantial niche for itself in
the Australian sedan market.
Renault Australia expects customers to be drawn to the Fluence by its size, as one of the biggest in
the segment, as well as by its comfort, practicality and high levels of equipment. Customers will be
pleasantly surprised by the price, which pitches the all-new Renault Fluence into the heart of the
small-car sedan market.
Like the all-new Renault Mégane, with which it shares significant architecture, the all new Renault
Fluence comes with an array of unique to class features, such as the Renault smart key card (for keyless
unlocking and engine starting), Bluetooth connectivity, multimedia connection box (with Aux. input
socket and USB support), 3D sound stereo (Privilege) with CD/MP3 compatibility and high quality sound,
and dual zone climate control air conditioning – which is unusual in this segment of the market.
Furthermore, the all-new Renault Fluence comes highly specified with active and passive safety
systems, again, not usually fitted as standard at this price point. Renault is committed to providing
the highest levels of safety and quality so the customer need not compromise in these areas.
Standard safety systems include ESP, ABS with EBD and Emergency Brake Assist, as well as 6-airbags,
three-point belts for all seats and adjustable front head restraints. There is cruise control with
speed limiter function, automatic headlamps and windscreen wipers.
The new Fluence was launched in some global markets around one year ago and will eventually be sold
in 80 markets.
A key design aim was to provide a stand-out shape that would be perceived as the most attractive
car in its class, with a long list of features that set it apart from its rivals, including its robust,
sporty exterior, comfortable cabin and an array of useful technological aids.
Developed by an international team of engineers, Renault Fluence benefits fully from the
Renault-Nissan Alliance’s extensive engineering experience.
The combination of the all-new Renault Fluence’s size and generous performance/equipment package
pitches it into the gap between the traditional ‘small’ and ‘medium’ sedan segments.
The all-new Renault Fluence’s generous proportions are an eloquent pointer to its welcoming,
comfortable cabin, which is given over entirely to the wellbeing of its occupants.
The car’s chassis delivers a comfortable, enjoyable ride, and its suspension has been engineered to
deliver steering and handling precision and filter out noise and vibrations.
The chassis is shared with the all-new Renault Mégane Hatch (which has just been released in
Australia) and the power and drivetrains are also similarly shared, comprising a powerful 103 kW,
2.0-litre, Euro 4-compliant, 16-valve four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 195 Nm of torque and
returning 7.8-litres/100 km on the combined cycle.
The engine is offered with a standard six-speed manual transmission or the option of the CVT that
delivers smooth acceleration and is very fuel efficient.
During its rigorous development regime, the all-new Renault Fluence was put through a comprehensive
endurance-testing programme in extreme conditions. The aim was to ensure an exceptional standard of
reliability and durability, especially in light of the demanding road conditions it is expected to
face in emerging markets and hot climates such as Australia.
It has also been developed to deliver leading safety performance in each of its markets.
Manufacturer’s List Price* for the all-new Renault Fluence
Renault Fluence Dynamique (Manual) $22,990*
Renault Fluence Dynamique CVT (Auto) $24,990*
Renault Fluence Privilege CVT (Auto) $29,990*
The Dynamique Manual is offered at $25,990 drive away by Renault dealers in Australia from launch.
Renault Fluence is on sale now at Renault dealers around Australia.
NOTE: * Manufacturer’s List Price (MLP) excludes the traditional on-road costs (such as
dealer delivery fees and the state/territory government statutory charges). Additionally, prices, fees
and charges are always subject to change without notice.
The all-new Renault Fluence in detail
Body design
The all-new Renault Fluence is a well-proportioned three-box sedan, 4,618 mm long, 1,501 mm high and
1,809 mm wide, with a wheelbase of 2,702 mm.
Streamlined headlights herald the start of an elegant waistline that sweeps harmoniously along
Fluence’s flanks towards the tail. The surround and chromed grille of the upper air intake embellish
the car’s front-end looks with a sporty stance, while the all-new Renault Fluence's status-enhancing
appeal is heightened by its sculptured wheel arches and long bonnet.
At the rear, the horizontal, two-part lights allow a generous boot aperture and emphasise the car's
thoroughly modern styling even further.
The all-new Renault Fluence boldly presents several upmarket touches, with Privilege model, for
instance boasting lower window, boot trims, fog lamp surrounds and door handles all picked out in
chrome, while the B-pillar uprights are gloss black along with body colour side protective mouldings.
The sense of strength and safety is reinforced by the carefully proportioned balance between the
windows and the large surface area of the doors. The lower door panels incorporate protective panels.
Viewed side-on, a distinctive character line flows rearward from the rounded front guards before
emphasising the car’s solid rear haunches.
In these ways the all-new Renault Fluence provides an impression of quality. Particular attention
has been paid to the fit and finish of its body panels (for example, around the windscreen pillars
and refuelling flap).
The rear bumper incorporates discreet parking sensors (on Privilege models). The windscreen wipers
are tucked away behind the bonnet’s upper edge, partly for aesthetic reasons, but also to reduce wind
noise and improve aerodynamic efficiency.
Interior
In the cabin, the airy fascia design incorporates taut, uncluttered lines that are complemented by
the sweep of the dashboard trim strip. Essential driving functions and useful accessories are grouped
close by the driver, either incorporated into the steering wheel controls or on the centre console.
The aim is to free up as much space as possible and to make the car even more user-friendly.
Significant care went into choosing the ideal materials and finish: the integrated upper dashboard
cowling has a soft-touch finish, yet it is also resistant to everyday knocks and exposure to direct
sunlight.
The high-quality impression is enhanced by details such as the chrome finish applied to the door
handles, instrument surrounds and gearlever knob, as well as the availability of a choice of light
(elegant) or dark (sportier) toned leather upholstery.
Drivers will quickly feel at-home behind the wheel of the all-new Renault Fluence, thanks to its
sound ergonomics and straightforward interfaces. On-board, drivers will be able to find their ideal
seating position thanks to a wide range of adjustability options.
Settling in, the driver can adjust the angle of the seatback and head restraint, alter the level
of lumbar support, adapt the steering wheel for rake and reach, and vary the seat position (which can
be moved fore and aft through up to 240 mm, and up or down by +/-35 mm).
Controls for the navigation and climate control systems, the steering wheel-mounted radio and
telephone fingertip remote controls and the controls for the cruise control/speed limiter are
instantly identifiable and well positioned.
The feeling of wellbeing is enhanced by low Noise, Vibration and Harshness levels, and high
standards of interior space, including class-leading elbow room (1,480 mm at the front, 1,475 mm at
the rear). Rear passengers also enjoy outstanding legroom, and kneeroom of 238 mm.
The all-new Renault Fluence’s cabin provides more than 23-litres of stowage space, including an
illuminated, chilled 9.0-litre glove box, a 2.2-litre centre console, and a 2.6-litre bin in each
front door.
The 530-litre boot capacity is one of the biggest in its class. Access is facilitated by the low
sill-height (727 mm) and wide aperture (1,020 mm), which has been made possible by incorporating
one part of the rear light cluster within the boot lid.
The 60/40-split folding rear seat enables the carrying capacity to be increased to suit the
needs of the moment. The absence of any steel partition between the cabin and the boot makes this
feature particularly useful when long or bulky items need to be carried.
Chassis
The all-new Renault Fluence is characterised by a balanced combination of ride comfort and
outstanding roadholding.
Renault Fluence’s front suspension features MacPherson-type struts with rectangular lower arms
and a 22 mm-diameter anti-roll bar, while the rear incorporates a programmed-deflection flexible
beam.
The combination of springs calibrated at 19.5 mm/100DaN at the front and 20.2mm/100DaN at the
rear and fine-tuning work on the damping has enhanced the vertical suspension performance and
reduced body roll.
Renault Fluence’s specific roll angle – which defines body lean in cornering and therefore its
ability to corner ‘flat’ – is 0.42° for lateral acceleration of 1m/s2. The segment average is 0.45°.
The all-new Renault Fluence also benefits from a particularly effective braking system, with
large discs that provide both outstanding stopping power and durability. Thanks to 280 mm-diameter
vented front discs and 260 mm rear discs, the Fluence can stop from a speed of 100 km/h in just 39
metres, even after repeated high-speed stops.
The Dynamique models use 6.5 J 16-inch alloy wheels shod with 205/60 R16 rubber, while the
Privilege model has 7 J 17 alloy wheels shod with 205/55 R 17 rubber.
The all-new Renault Fluence’s electric power steering combines precise driver feedback with
swift, accurate response to instructions from the wheel. It is easy to use and feels completely
natural. The technology employed, and the calibration of the control unit, ensure both steering
precision and genuine driving enjoyment.
The steering has been optimised by the adoption of the following technology:
- The fitment of an inductive torque sensor (0.6ms), which is four times quicker than an optical
sensor
- Increased steering control unit sampling frequency (1000Hz, compared with 420Hz in the case of
the previous generation Mégane)
- A broader dynamic servo motor bandwidth (300Hz, compared with 70Hz in the previous Mégane)
In the course of its development, the all-new Renault Fluence was put through its paces in an
exacting endurance testing programme in punishing conditions (extreme heat and cold, poor roads,
dust, etc.).
A fleet of more than 100 test cars covered almost five million kilometres to fine-tune the final
chassis specification. A raft of additional checks were built into the standard testing procedure
to take into account the demanding road conditions found in the majority of Renault Fluence’s markets.
Safety
The all-new Renault Fluence was designed using the same philosophy that applies throughout the
Renault range. The company has capitalised on studies conducted by LAB (the Accident Analysis,
Biomechanics and Human Behaviour Laboratory of PSA Peugeot-Citroën and Renault), and also used
its extensive engineering expertise to develop efficient safety systems relevant to the real-world
driving conditions found in all the countries where the car will be sold.
All models of the all-new Renault Fluence sold in Australia will be equipped as standard with ABS
with electronic brakeforce distribution, emergency braking assist, with automatic activation of the
hazard warning lights, ESP (electronic stability with understeer control), three-point inertia-reel
front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, inertia-reel seatbelts with load limiters for
all three rear seats, driver and passenger airbags, two lateral thorax airbags and two curtain
airbags, warning alert if driver or passenger seatbelts are unfastened, three-point Isofix anchorage
for outer rear seats, cruise control with speed limiter, and the latest-generation adjustable head
restraints.
Equipment
The all-new Renault Fluence is very well equipped from the start, but the attention to detail
goes much deeper than a feature list.
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For example, no effort has been spared in terms of thermal comfort. To ensure maximum efficiency,
notably in markets such as Australia that are exposed to fierce heat and humidity, all versions of
the all-new Renault Fluence feature climate control as standard equipment, with outlets positioned
at the base of the windscreen, as well as at the centre and both ends of the dashboard for front-seat
passengers, and on Privilege grades, beneath the front seats and at the rear of the centre console
for those sitting in the back.
The new Renault Fluence Dynamique features ABS with emergency braking assist, ESP, 6-airbags,
automatic headlamps and wipers, cruise control (CVT transmission only), fog lights, Renault smart
card key (hands-free access and engine starting), dark charcoal cloth upholstery, height adjustable
driver’s seat, streaming audio Bluetooth, dual zone air conditioning with rear air vents, 4-speaker
AM/FM stereo with single CD/MP3 player and fingertip access controls, electric windows all round,
body coloured, heated electrically foldable door mirrors incorporating side turn indicator repeaters,
storage in front and rear armrest/door bins and seat back pockets, 60/40 split fold rear seat and
16-inch ‘Spiral’ alloy wheels.
The Dynamique is available in six-speed manual and optional CVT transmission guises.
The all-new Renault Fluence Privilege top-of-the-range grade comes with the following additional
equipment: electric glass sunroof, black leather upholstery, passenger seat height adjustment with
lumbar support, integrated satellite navigation system, more powerful stereo speaker system and
multimedia connection box, rear parking sensors and 17-inch ‘Monitor’ alloy wheels.
The multimedia connection box enables drivers to control auxiliary players (such as an iPod®,
or anything with a USB connection) via the steering wheel-mounted fingertip remote controls. The
menu and playlists are displayed on the dashboard screen.
Options for the Dynamique models include metallic paint, leather upholstery, integrated satellite
navigation, more powerful stereo, multimedia connection box and electric glass sunroof.
Options for the Privilege model are limited to metallic paint.
The dual-zone climate control air conditioning is the same as that used effectively on the
all-new Megane Hatch. It enables the driver and front passenger to select individual temperature and
fan-speed preferences via the ‘Soft-Auto-Fast’ control.
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, while
‘Fast’ mode ensures rapid ventilation of the whole cabin.
Environment
Thanks to Renault restricting the weight of the all-new Fluence to 1,250 kg (on average across
the range, minus driver and fuel) and carefully honed aerodynamics, the new model is a perfect
illustration of the ongoing progress Renault is making in terms of environmental protection.
Renault’s group policy is that all new models must be 95 per cent end-of-life recoverable; with
at least five per cent of the plastics they contain to be sourced from recycling. The all-new
Renault Fluence is 95 per cent end-of-life recoverable, while almost seven per cent of the plastics
it contains are sourced from recycling, equivalent to an average of 12 kg.
On sale dates
The all-new Renault Fluence is on sale now at Renault dealers around Australia.
NOTE * Manufacturer’s List Price (MLP) does not include on-road charges such as dealer
delivery fees and the various statutory charges.
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