Renault is renowned for building stylish yet practical vehicles.
The Fluence represents Renault’s attempt to take on the mid-size saloon category, dominated by brands from the Far East and of course Europe.
Refreshed for 2016, Renault promises to lure customers looking for real value for money with the revamped Fluence.
Exterior Design Features
The front profile of the Fluence is inspired from the brand’s design renaissance, the focal point being the prominent Renault diamond shaped badge set vertically against a gloss black background.
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The model’s bold lines and curvy surfaces ensure a more dynamic, aggressive stance while chrome strips on either side of the badge underscore its status-enhancing look.
The bumper is now bolder with large lower air intakes that broaden towards the base.
The fog lights are set against a gloss black surround and give the front a premium touch, while the wheel arch openings provide the new Renault Fluence with an even more dynamic allure.
Interior Design Features
The instrument panel incorporates a large LCD screen with main functions that include a digital speed display, fuel and engine temperature function.
The dash is built from high quality plastics, with a rough-touch finish to top it all up.
The centre console houses a rectangular monochrome display that indicates various functions of the audio and climate system.
The Fluence seats five adults in relative comfort, with ample leg and headroom for all occupants.
One thing that impressed me was how supportive the seats were. Despite having fabric upholstery, the quality of the material, thickness of the foam plus the contract stitching is simply outstanding.
Renault has stuffed the Fluence with tons of gadgetry like rain sensing wipers, automatic headlamp adjustment, climate control and a thumping audio system to enhance the cabin experience.
Engine Capability
Under the bonnet lies a tiny but potent 1.6-litre engine which produces 82kW at 6000 rpm and 151Nm of torque at 4250 rpm.
Power is delivered to the front paws courtesy of a five speed manual transmission, capable of accelerating from zero to 100km.h in 11.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 185km/h.
The close ratio synchronized gearbox allows you to exploit the full potential of the engine while enabling you to attain a fuel consumption figure of 6.8-litres/100km.
The Drive
A quick drive to Naivasha revealed how flexible the Fluence is.
The engine managed to cope with the altitude difference, due to its innovative inlet manifold design. Floor it and it gathers speed progressively without shuddering at during downshifts.
Steering feel is neutral and beefs up nicely at higher speeds, while the independent front and rear suspension system keeps all wheels planted and vehicle sure footed.
Safety Features
The Fluence has a mix of active and passive safety systems that help mitigate accidents and injuries to the occupants. ABS braking, EBA+ EBD, while Electronic Stability Control (ESP) complete the active safety package.
Passive safety features include front driver/passenger airbags, side bags and curtain units, as well as anti-whiplash height-adjustable front headrests are standard.
If you are in the market for the perfect mid-size saloon, then the Fluence is worth the consideration. With prices starting from Sh2.5 million plus VAT, the Fluence offers more bang for your hard earned buck!
