Renault is introducing Latitude for the first time at the Moscow International Motor Show. Renault is also launching the following new models to the Russian market: Duster, the new automatic Logan, Sandero and Sandero Stepway (complete knock down, CKD), as well as Fluence sedan and Mégane hatchback (semi-knock down, SKD). These vehicles will be produced locally from 2010-2011.

Renault is giving a world premier of its new business class sedan in Moscow. This elegant car combines nicely balanced proportions, with classic design, and spaciousness. This car appeals to people who appreciate superior quality materials and comfort in all its forms. The sedan embodies the best technical advances in terms of reliability and efficiency, and is destined to become the flagship model of Renault’s range of cars. The car goes on sale in Russia in Autumn 2010, and will then be released in another 50 countries around the world.

The reliability, safety and durability of the car are based on the joint technologies and technical achievements of the Renault-Nissan Alliance: the cars are put through extensive road testing and trials in extreme conditions to guarantee the highest standards of quality, which is of the utmost importance in countries with difficult road conditions. Not forgetting the highly valued manufacturing experience of the Busan plant where the Renault Koleos is already being manufactured.

With such generous external dimensions (Length – 4,887mm; width – 1,832mm; height – 1,483mm), Latitude easily falls into the category of large status oriented sedan. The car looks both solid and elegant. Its silhouette is harmonious: the wheelbase stretches 2.762 metres, and the front and rear overhangs are 1.025 metres and 1.101 metres respectively. The dual system of intelligent adaptive bi-xenon headlights harmoniously compliment the contours of the chrome grill. The boot compartment is one of the best in the category: 477 litres (511 litres without the spare wheel). The rear LED lights harmonize perfectly with the chrome rear strip which bears the letters of the new model’s name: Renault Latitude.

Renault Latitude conveys a sense of reliability and quality that you can feel. The ‘Air’ instruments panel is based on the original construction of the central console, and blends in perfectly with rest of the instruments. The vehicle and onboard comfort controls are all within easy reach: all are located around the steering wheel and central console. The interior features; chromed door handles, dial rims, and gear stick, all emphasizing the car’s status as a business class sedan. Special attention should be paid to the décor and trim around the seats, which bring variety to the interior of the car depending on the model. Customers can either choose between a dark gray interior with dark leather, and a dark beige interior with beige leather. Both are aesthetically pleasing and comfortable.

Renault Latitude was developed using the combined expertise of Renault and Nissan. The comfortable and silent driving experience, precise handling chassis, and the high tech engine give it the decisive edge over its rivals. The Latitude inherited the front part of the chassis from the Renault Laguna, which is well known for its excellent handling, whilst the rear multi-link suspension from Nissan provides an unrivalled level of comfort. These features actively dampen bumps and other irregularities in the road, remove vibrations, thereby smoothing the whole car driving experience, and making it equal to the best cars in its class.

Renault Latitude will propose a wide range of engines and 6-speed manual and automatic gearboxes which clients in different countries will be able to choose from .Diesel engines will be provides by Renault. The most performing and noiseless is the 2.0 dCi (M9R) that provides 110 and 127 kW (150 and 175 hp). For some markets there will be available the top of the range engine – V6 dCi (V9X) of 177 kW (240 hp). The same power will be provided by the petrol engine V6 3.5 L (V4Y).

COMFORT

Based on the same architecture as the new SM5, which was recently launched in the Korean market, Renault Latitude benefits extensively from the joint developments and expertise of Renault, Nissan and Renault Samsung Motors. The comfort and acoustics of the interior have become the subject of much attention. The driver has a whole array of functions that are as useful as they are original.

Renault Latitude is one of the first D-segment car to include a massager in the driver’s seat, and the new triple-zone automatic climate control system. The ultra comfortable driver’s seat contains 5 pneumatic massaging rollers, with four operating modes: constant, intermittent, soft and firm. The precise motions of the flexible pneumatic rollers on the spine have a relaxing effect during long journeys or long periods of time stuck in traffic.

The vehicle also features a unique interior air quality control management system. The triple-zone automatic climate control system allows the driver and each of the passengers to individually regulate the temperature inside the vehicle. The system which is based on the ‘best in class’ system used in the Laguna, is also capable of controlling the composition and characteristics of the air in the car. As well as a combined coal filter, which prevents dust and unpleasant smells from entering the vehicle, Renault Latitude features a dual-mode air ioniser. It not only emits healthy negatively charged ions, but purifies the air by removing allergens and harmful bacteria. The driver and passenger can also take advantage of the double fragrance diffuser to fill the car with a pleasant aroma. Refill cartridges may be obtained from any Renault dealership.

QUALITY AND SAFETY

In terms of quality and reliability Renault Latitude features components designed by the Alliance and assembled according to its standards. The vehicle thus benefits from the excellent results achieved by Renault in these areas. The Renault Samsung Technical Center (RSTC) at Giheung, near Seoul, has taken charge of the project on the basis of elements pre-determined by Renault. Teams from Renault Samsung Motors have worked closely with Renault’s and Nissan’s teams on all aspects of production of Renault Latitude, from validation and design to development and manufacture. Renault Samsung Motors has been market leader in South Korea for eight years running. Quality of design and build is part of the company’s DNA and is widely acclaimed by customers. Constant emphasis is placed on service quality, not only at point of sale but throughout the vehicle’s life.

Safety has always been the first priority in the development of this car. There is a whole range of modern safety features: ABS, emergency brake assist, electronic brake distribution, Electronic Stability Control ESC, as well as the passive safety features: 8 adaptive airbags, passenger and driver restraint and load limiter seat belts. The Renault Latitude has the same two-tier side impact sensors and dual chamber airbags as the Renault Laguna.

The Renault Latitude is the embodiment of the international Renault Company. Developed in France and South Korea and incorporating elements of the platform from Renault and Nissan, this automobile incorporates all the best achievements in terms of technology, the fields of aerodynamics, safety, comfort and quality.

Renault Latitude is manufactured in South Corea in the Busan Renault-Samsung-Motors plant. This production site is respectful of the environment and is certified ISO 14 001 This site has great experience in the production of cars of higher automotive segments. Today together with Renault Latitude the Busan factory produces Renault-Samsung-Motors models SM3, SM5, SM7, QM5 and Renault Koléos.

The car will make its first public appearance at the Moscow Motor Show, and will go on sale at the end of September 2010 in Morocco and Algeria, then in Russia and Ukraine and in Africa. The European version will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show.