Renault Talisman sedan revealed

Renault has unveiled its long-awaited Laguna replacement.

Called the Talisman, the new sedan will go on sale early 2016 and be joined, later on, by a larger wagon – but both models have been ruled out for right-hand drive production, according to senior sources close to Renault Australia.

Measuring 4.85m long and 1.87m wide, the big French sedan is set to be offered with state-of-the-art technology and come with new innovations to the sub-premium sedan class, like four-wheel steering.

Inside, the cabin is spacious with class-leading rear knee room and storage space. Its boot is also among the biggest in its class.

Up front, the dash is dominated by a huge 8.7-inch portrait tablet that incorporates Renault’s latest infotainment system that allows users to two-finger zoom, like a smart phone.

Under the bonnet European buyers will be offered the choice of just one 1.6-litre turbo with either 110kW or 147kW. Both come equipped with a standard seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Three diesels will also be offered, an 80kW 1.4-litre, and 95kW and 118kW versions of the 1.6-litre diesel that’s already available in Nissan’s Qashqai. The most powerful 118kW twin-turbo diesel comes with just a six-speed dual-clutch automatic while the lower powered variants also come with the option of six-speed manual.

As already mentioned, the Talisman will also come with 4Control – Renault’s four-wheel steering that was developed on the last-generation Laguna. The new sedan will also benefit from adaptive dampers.

Both the sedan and estate will be officially revealed this September at the Frankfurt motor show.

The reason behind why the Talisman has been ruled out for Australia is the decline of the sedan in right-hand drive markets like the UK, where buyers have downsized into smaller hatches or been seduced by small SUVs.