Production Years and Facelift
The Renault Laguna III was produced from 2007 to 2015, replacing the Laguna II. The model debuted as a hatchback, followed by a station wagon (Tourer) and a rare coupe-convertible (Coupé-Cabriolet).
In 2010, the car underwent a facelift, which included changes to:
- Front optics (slimmer headlights with LED elements).
- Radiator grille (new shape and chrome inserts).
- Rear lights (LED).
- Interior (improved materials, new multimedia system).
After the update, the Laguna III received additional safety systems and upgraded engines, including more fuel-efficient diesel options.
Model and Generation Code
The Laguna III has the factory designation X91 (hatchback) and K91 (station wagon). The coupe-convertible was labeled L91.
Model Description
Design and Platform
The car was built on the Renault-Nissan D platform, also used by the Nissan Altima and Samsung SM5. Unlike its predecessor, the Laguna III featured a more restrained and aerodynamic design (Cx = 0.29 for the hatchback).
Engines
Petrol:
- 1.6 (110 HP)
- 2.0 (140 HP)
- 2.0 Turbo (170 and 205 HP)
Diesel (popular in Europe):
- 1.5 dCi (110 HP)
- 2.0 dCi (150, 175, and 180 HP)
Transmission
Most versions came with a 6-speed manual or automatic (4- and 6-speed). There were no all-wheel-drive modifications.
Features and Technologies
- Blind-spot monitoring system – one of the first in its class.
- Adaptive cruise control (optional after the facelift).
- Renault Card keyless entry and ignition.
- Aluminum hood (for weight reduction).
Bumper Plastic Marking >PP-TD10<
How to Remove the Front Bumper
- Lift the hood.
- The upper part of the bumper is held by clips (no screws or bolts), so the hood does not need to be opened.
- Start from the bottom. Use a 10 mm socket to remove four bolts securing the lower splash guard.
- Remove three screws on each side attaching the wheel liners to the bumper (two in the wheel arches and four from the underbody).
- Move the wheel liners aside and remove one 10 mm screw on each side (fastened from bottom to top) securing the bumper corners to the wing brackets.
- Release the clips in the wings, grip the corner firmly, and pull outward with moderate force.
- With an assistant, pull the bumper forward, releasing it from the upper clips.
- On the right side, disconnect the electrical connectors; on the left, detach the headlight washer hoses.
How to Remove the Rear Bumper
- Open the trunk lid.
- Inside the trunk side panels, remove one plastic nut on each side, release the clips, and take out the rear lights.
- Under the rear lights, locate two clips on each side securing the top of the bumper.
- Move to the underside. Remove four bolts securing the splash guard and two screws on each side attaching the wheel liners.
- In the wheel arches, remove the screws, take out the mudguards, and remove one screw per side securing the bumper corners to the wings.
- Release the clips in the wings, grip the corner firmly, and pull outward to free the clips under the taillights and trunk opening.
- With an assistant, pull the bumper backward. Disconnect the wiring for the license plate light, parking sensors, and running lights.
Interesting Facts
- Safety – The Laguna III initially received 5 stars in Euro NCAP tests (2007), but due to stricter standards, its rating was later downgraded to 4 stars.
- Coupe-Convertible – A rare version with an electro-mechanical roof, produced until 2013.
- GT Sport Version – Featured a 2.0 Turbo (205 HP) engine and a sport-tuned suspension.
- Electric Laguna – In 2010, Renault showcased an electric Laguna prototype, but it never entered mass production.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comfortable suspension – smooth ride on uneven roads.
- Quiet cabin – high-quality sound insulation for its class.
- Rich trim options – top versions included leather seats, bi-xenon headlights, and driver fatigue monitoring.
- Reliable diesel engines – 2.0 dCi with timing chains (but required timely maintenance).
Cons:
- Unreliable electronics – issues with sensors, multimedia, and electric actuators.
- Expensive maintenance – OEM parts were costlier than competitors (Peugeot 407, Volkswagen Passat B6).
- Weak petrol engines – 1.6 and 2.0 naturally aspirated versions were underpowered for the heavy platform.
- Corrosion – paint and galvanization issues (especially in early models).
Conclusion
The Renault Laguna III is a comfortable European sedan with advanced technologies but suffers from typical French car quirks. After the 2010 facelift, it became more reliable, but due to strong competition and the rise of SUVs, sales declined, and production ended in 2015.