Renault Latitude V6 2012 review

If you think Renault's mid-sized Latitude looks familiar, you are right. It's basically a Nissan Maxima with a Renault nose, tail and interior, built in Korea by Samsung.

Renault is not expecting a rush to the Latitude, perhaps a few hundred a year, but it does serve as a replacement for the discontinued Laguna, albeit with less panache.

Smaller inside but as long outside as a Commodore or Falcon, the Latitude is classed as mid-sized while the Maxima is classed as a large car.

PRICES AND ENGINES

Keen pricing, lavish equipment and a diesel engine priced the same as the V6 petrol version are the big attractions. There are two models, the entry level at $36,990 and the Luxe at $42,490. The 2.5-litre V6 engine comes from the base Maxima and produces 133kW and 235Nm and has a combined fuel use of 9.7 litres/100km.

The two-litre turbo diesel is similar to that in the Renault Koleos and Nissan X-Trail manual. It produces the same 127kW, but torque is up 20Nm to 380Nm. Combined fuel use is 6.5 litres/100km. Both engines drive the front wheels through six-speed automatic transmissions.

DRIVING

Dynamically, the Latitude is competent rather than inspiring. The V6 is smooth and frugal, but needs plenty of revs to keep it on the boil and the transmission is set to change up early, which has it hunting between ratios more than is desirable. This makes the diesel the better option. After some lag the relatively quiet diesel gets into stride and provides strong and linear thrust.

Handling is balanced and secure enough at moderate speeds, but the insensitive steering and a tendency to push at the front near the limit don't inspire spirited driving. Ride is compliant and composed on big bumps, but it can be lumpy and busy on minor irritations.

The interior is tasteful, well-equipped and with clear main instruments and multiple seat adjustment, but it is offset by the sombre trim and complicated audio and navigation controls.

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