This saloon 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. Renault Latitude goes on sale in Russia in the autumn of 2010 and will then be released in a further 50 countries around the world.

THE RENAULT LATITUDE: BIG ON THE OUTSIDE, BIG ON THE INSIDE

With such generous external dimensions (length - 4,887mm; width - 1,832mm; height - 1,483mm), Renault Latitude easily falls into the category of large saloon. The wheelbase stretches 2.76 metres and the front and rear overhangs are 1.02 metres and 1.1 metres respectively. The intelligent adaptive bi-xenon headlights 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 size of the optional electric panoramic sunroof makes it stand out from others in the category.

The vehicle and onboard comfort controls are all within easy reach with all located around the steering wheel and central console. The interior features; chromed door handles, dial rims, and gear lever, all emphasising the car's status as a business class saloon. Customers can either choose between a dark grey interior with dark leather, and a dark beige interior with beige leather.

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FOR LONG JOURNEYS

Latitude was developed using the combined expertise of Renault and Nissan. The comfortable and silent driving experience, precise handling chassis, and high tech engine give it the decisive edge over its rivals. Renault Latitude inherited the front part of the chassis from 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.

In Russia, Renault Latitude will come with a choice of two power plants. The 2.5 litre V6 generates 130 kW (177 hp) at 6000 rpm. Combined with a six-speed (AJ0) automatic transmission, it delivers a torque of 233 Nm at 4400 rpm and can accelerate quickly and easily reaching a top speed of 131mph. The combined fuel consumption is 29.1mpg.

The other option is the M4R engine with a 2.0 litre capacity with 102 kW (139 hp) 6000 rpm. Along with the excellent continuous variable transmission CVT, this engine is both versatile and efficient with a maximum torque of 191 Nm at 4400 rpm. The combined fuel consumption is 34.0mpg.

Renault Latitude will propose a wide range of engines and six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes which customers in different countries will be able to choose from. The 2.0 dCi (M9R) is available in a choice of power outputs: 110 and 127 kW (150 and 175 hp). For some markets there will also be the choice of V6 dCi (V9X) with 177 kW (240 hp) or a petrol V6 3.5 litre (V4Y), also with 177kW (240hp).

AIR QUALITY AND PREMIUM CLASS COMFORT

Based on the same architecture as the new SM5, 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 interior acoustics 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 cars to include a massaging function in the driver's seat and the new triple-zone automatic climate control system. The driver's seat contains five 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.

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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 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 with refill cartridges that may be obtained from any Renault dealership.

ALL THE RIGHT CONNECTIONS

Renault Latitude features all the latest on-board technical equipment capable of a multitude of functions. For example, each model has a Bluetooth connection as standard. The following audio systems will be available depending on model:

• All Renault Latitude will include a 3D Sound audio system by Arkamys with six speakers. It also includes a CD and MP3 player, as well as a 3.5mm "jack" and Bluetooth
• The top of the range Renault Latitude features an extra two speakers and the "Plug & Music" system, which facilitates the connection of most external media players, including iPod
• The exclusive Bose Sound System is available as an additional extra. It provides perfect sound production in the cabin, includes 10 speakers (including the central channel and subwoofer) and also a multi-channel amplifier with equaliser.

All audio controls are located on the central console and the steering-wheel, while the information is shown on the dashboard displays.

Renault Latitude comes with a Carminat TomTom satellite navigation system which is completely integrated into the onboard systems, and its accuracy and quick response time are a marked improvement on other navigation systems. This satnav will include such features as "IQ Routes" (statistical route optimisation), "Advanced Lane Guidance" (visual junction display) and "Mapshare" (proprietary map improvement technology). This satnav will be available in Russia from the beginning of 2011 and will be combined with an integrated automatic parking brake and rear view camera.

Renault Latitude has all the various types of equipment needed to make driving the car easier and more comfortable: the next generation hands-free key card, front and rear parking sensors, cruise control, ESC and directional bi-xenon headlights.

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QUALITY AND SAFETY ARE "IN THE GENES"

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 Centre (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 and 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 safety features: ABS, EBA (emergency brake assist), EBD (electronic brake distribution), ESC (electronic stability control) as well as passive safety features: eight adaptive airbags, passenger and driver restraint and load limiter seat belts. Renault Latitude has the same two-tier side impact sensors and dual chamber airbags as the Renault Laguna.