On the opening day of the Riyadh Motorshow, Renault GCC today unveiled the latest vehicle in its line-up - the brand new Renault Safrane.
Renault's luxury saloon is the latest incarnation of the Safrane, which was a success in its last guise, when it was launched in 2008, selling 2624 units in the GCC.
Renault GCC Managing Director, Mustansir Lakdawala said: "The Renault Safrane is a flagship model for the brand, and the new model has improved upon the successes and strengths of previous models, bringing a fantastic high-end, luxury saloon to the GCC market.
"The Safrane is an ideal model for GCC customers. Owners in the region have exacting standards for cars, looking for something that will stand up to the rigours of the climate, while offering exceptional comfort and luxury, and a powerful engine for effortless motoring often on less than ideal roads, all wrapped up in a stylish saloon body. The new Renault Safrane meets all these criteria.
"Having been developed with the Middle East climate in mind, and with the 'Drive the Change' philosophy at the heart of the car, the latest innovative technology has been implemented to deliver an experience, not just to the driver but to all occupants of the new Safrane," he said.
The brand new Renault Safrane is very much akin to a relaxed and well-appointed private business lounge, offering relaxation, comfort and luxury thanks to the high standards of innovation and quality utilised in the development of the car. The new Safrane is very much the embodiment of the Renault baseline, "Drive the Change", where Renault has strived to maximise the experience the car delivers to its occupants. Demonstrating the dedication to bringing something new to buyers, is the segment topping knee-clearance for rear passengers of the new Safrane; spaciousness and a roomy cabin are inherent in the Safrane's elegant design, and enhance passenger well being.
Everything about the new Renault Safrane says luxury, from the relaxing, air purifying Samsung Super Plasma ioniser, to the Arkamys® and Bose® sound system. The range of engines includes the 3.5 V6 240hp, meaning occupants will be spirited to their destination with effortless efficiency.
All of Renault's leading safety features are included with the new Safrane, with technical solutions developed within the framework of the Renault-Nissan Alliance integral to the new Safrane. Solutions acclaimed for their reliability and efficiency offer outstanding safety performance, with a spec including ABS, emergency brake assist, ESC, adaptive airbags, twin side-impact sensors, a tyre pressure monitoring system and bi-xenon cornering headlights.
The new Renault Safrane will be available from dealers in the GCC market on 1st January, 2011.
AN ELEGANT SALOON:
Renault Safrane is a generously-dimensioned saloon car. Its nicely balanced proportions and elegant lines point to the exceptional comfort and wellbeing occupants can look forward to onboard. This sensation is confirmed by the refinement and high-quality finish of the cabin, as well as by the carefully selected materials and occupant-friendly layout.
Occupants pampered by RENAULT SAFRANE'S COMFORT-ENHANCING appointments:
Renault Safrane's inviting cabin is devoted to the wellbeing and comfort of its occupants:
Overall length = 4,897mm / width = 1,832mm / height = 1,483mm / wheelbase = 2,762mm,
Boot volume (VDA/ISO): 477dm3 with spare wheel,
Superior cabin space, including segment-topping kneeroom of 251mm, and front and rear elbowroom of 1,46m and 1,44m respectively,
Numerous stowage solutions and cubbies, including a chilled, lit 9.6-litre glovebox and 2.4 litres of storage in the centre console.
A RANGE OF EXCLUSIVE, HIGH-END FEATURES GEARED TO THE WELLBEING OF OCCUPANTS:
Renault Safrane inaugurates the brand's new Take Care signature which denotes a particularly high standard of well-being on board. Features include an unprecedented dual-mode air purifying Samsung Super Plasma ioniser, a double scent diffuser and a four-mode massage driver's seat.
100% CONNECTED:
Renault Safrane's other high-end appointments include:
A comprehensive range of audio systems, including the core-range 3D Sound by Arkamys® system and the high-end Renault Bose® Sound System,
A full integrated navigation system: Carminat TomTom Live
Bluetooth® telephony and Plug & Music digital connectivity,
Front and rear parking proximity sensors, plus reversing camera
Adaptive bi-Xenon cornering headlights,
Hands-free entry and ignition, with automatically locking doors as the card-holder walks away from the vehicle,
Electronic parking brake.
A CAREFULLY-ENGINEERED BLEND OF COMFORT AND PERFORMANCE, PLUS A CHOICE OF EFFICIENT ENGINES:
Renault Safrane delivers the on-road performance expected of a large touring car thanks to:
An efficient chassis including the Nissan multi-link rear suspension arrangement for enhanced ride comfort and driving pleasure,
A choice of three enjoyable, fuel-efficient petrol powertrains:
2.0 16V (140hp) mated to Nissan XTronic Continuous variable transmission gearbox.
2.5 V6 (180 hp) with automatic six speed transmission
3.5 V6 (240 hp) also fitted with an automatic six-speed transmission.
RIGOROUSLY DESIGNED FOR EXACTING MOTORISTS:
The rigorous design of Renault Safrane, which benefits extensively from the acclaimed know how of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. To guarantee a level of reliability and durability that matches the demanding conditions it is likely to encounter in the majority of its markets, the model was put through its paces during an intensive endurance testing programme.
Development work also focused on delivering superior safety performance for its different markets thanks to Renault's unique experience in the fields of active and passive safety. Safety equipment includes standard ABS and emergency brake assist, plus ESC, six airbags (including two dual-chamber thorax-groin lateral airbags with twin side-impact sensors), three-point seat belts (with pretensioners and load limiters at front), cruise control with speed limiter, tyre pressure monitoring system.
AN ELEGANT SALOON:
Renault Safrane is a generously-dimensioned saloon car. Its nicely balanced proportions and elegant lines point to the exceptional comfort and wellbeing occupants can look forward to onboard. This promise is confirmed by the refinement and high quality finish of the cabin, as well as by the interior's carefully selected materials and occupant-friendly layout.
A streamlined design:
Renault Safrane is a new addition to the Renault range. It is a large saloon, with a length of 4,897mm, a width of 1,832mm, a height of 1,483mm, a 2,762mm wheelbase and front and rear overhangs of 1,035mm and 1,100mm respectively.
At the front, the bi-Xenon cornering headlights set either side of the chrome grille contribute to the model's unmistakable poise. The lines of these lights extend rearward via a waistline that sweeps around the body and across the boot to produce a particularly elegant stance. The sculpted wheel arches and long bonnet accentuate the model's high-end status.
Modern styling details include the rear lighting signature which employs a blend of LED and conventional technologies.
The panoramic electric glass sunroof provides a brightly lit cabin, while its gloss black finish gracefully prolongs the rake of the windscreen to the rear window. Renault Safrane's style is further asserted by the smart chrome arch which frames the side windows.
An inviting interior:
Inside the vehicle, spaciousness and richness of equipment is evident. The controls for the driver aids and travelling comfort features fall readily to hand and are clustered either around the steering wheel or on the centre console.The same attention has been paid to the quality and finish of the rest of the interior. Depending on the version, the cabin comes with a number of slush-moulded parts and chrome details, including the door handles and gear lever knob, as well as a choice of light or dark leather upholstery. Similar care has gone into the trim itself in order to obtain distinct ambiances for the different equipment levels, allowing customers to choose between an elegant, light-hued interior which places the accent on the wellbeing of occupants, or a darker trim.
Occupants pampered by RENAULT SAFRANE'S COMFORT-ENHANCING appointments:
Renault Safrane's inviting cabin is given over entirely to the wellbeing and comfort of its occupants.
Passengers benefit from a spacious cabin, with those at the rear enjoying a remarkable 251mm of kneeroom, as well as an elbow room of 1,44m.
This sensation of wellbeing is accentuated by the cabin's carefully engineered acoustics. The design, quality and seal of the doors and windows, the inserts employed for the body's hollow sections and the use of single-piece soundproofing for the front bulkhead all contribute to minimising cabin noise.
Other features designed to enhance travelling comfort include:
A 9.6-litre lit, chilled glovebox,
2.4 litres of compartmented stowage space in the front part of the centre console,
Front and rear door bins,
A cubby underneath the steering wheel,
Sunglasses case,
Map pockets on the front seat backs,
Folding table incorporating two cup-holder over the middle rear seat and two cup-holders in the front console.
The 477dm3 boot with spare wheel is amongst the biggest to be found in Renault Safrane's class. Loading is facilitated by the low sill (723mm), while the incorporation of part of the rear light clusters on the boot lid ensures a particularly broad aperture (993mm).
The 60/40-split rear benchseat enables carrying capacity to be adapted to meet the owner's needs of the moment and notably permits long or bulky items to be transported.
A RANGE OF EXCLUSIVE, HIGH-END APPOINTMENTS GEARED TO THE WELLBEING OF OCCUPANTS:
A great deal of thought went into ensuring that Renault Safrane's quiet and comfortable cabin provides the driver and passengers alike with a reassuringly relaxing ride. Premium features include a four-mode driver's massage seat, an innovative dual-mode air Samsung Plasma ioniser and a double scent diffuser. The list continues with a comprehensive choice of audio systems, including the core-range 3D Sound by Arkamys® system and the high-end Bose® Sound System, plus the integrated Carminat TomTom , as well as Bluetooth® telephony and Plug&Music digital connectivity.
A massage driver's seat which takes its inspiration from luxury saloons:
The five pneumatic rollers located in the driver's seat back provide up to four different massage modes (continuous, intermittent, soft and firm). The quiet, precise, synchronised soothing action of these supple rollers across the driver's back delivers a relaxing experience that is especially appreciated on longer journeys or when caught up in congested traffic. The controls fall readily to hand, enabling the driver to activate the function, concentrate on one of three zones (shoulder blades, mid back, lumbar region), choose between the four available modes and/or switch on the seat warmer.
Cabin-air purification system: a first for the Renault range.
Significant attention has also been paid to thermal comfort. For optimal efficiency, especially in our markets where strong sunshine and humidity can be a problem, Renault Safrane is equipped with triple-zone automatic climate control incorporating a unique air-quality control system comprising a dual-mode ioniser and a double scent diffuser.
This system enables occupants to select the temperature and fan speed they prefer using the front-mounted 'Soft', 'Auto' and 'Fast' switch:
The 'Auto' mode optimises thermal and acoustic comfort and swiftly adjusts the system to an appropriate setting,
The quiet 'Soft' mode places the emphasis on effective distribution,
The 'Fast' mode ensures rapid ventilation of the whole cabin.
This feature combines with the unique, relaxing air-purification system which functions in conjunction with the activated-carbon air/pollen filter and toxicity sensor. Renault Safrane uses a Samsung Super Plasma® air ioniser based on the same climate control unit as Renault Laguna and developed in association with Samsung Electronics Co., a world leader in this field. The dual-mode ioniser's contribution to the wellbeing of occupants is enhanced by its purifying function which significantly reduces the amount of bacteria and allergens that are found naturally in confined cabin air. The air recycling mode is automatically triggered when the toxicity sensor detects an excessive quantity of harmful gases.
Air ioniserAir ionisers produce active hydrogen atoms and negative oxygen ions in varying proportions as a function of the selected cycle. Whereas negative ions have a dynamising, appeasing effect, positive ions - which are naturally present in air, but often in excessively high concentrations in confined spaces such as a car's interior - lead to stress and fatigue. The role of the ioniser is to increase the proportion of the former and neutralise the latter. The system featured on Renault Safrane has two modes:- Clean mode, for healthy air: purifies cabin air by neutralising harmful particles such as bacteria, allergens and germs.- Relax mode, relieves stress: appeases tension by generating negative ions to produce a relaxing, electromagnetic balance with the positive ions.The driver and passengers also benefit from the diffusion of scents by two interchangeable cartridges situated in the dashboard. Two cartridges (red berries & herbal tea) are delivered with the vehicle, while replacements are available from Renault dealerships where customers can choose from six different fragrances: Blue Ocean, Mango, Red Berries, Green Nature, Herbal Tea and Precious Flowers. In addition to the type of fragrance, the strength of the scent can also be selected (three modes), while the diffusion frequency, and the use of a bespoke fan and air vents make this system unique in the car's segment.
Take Care by Renault, Renault's new wellbeing signature After becoming the first manufacturer to commit to the creation of an 'eco' signature (Renault eco²), Renault has innovated once again with the launch of a signature devoted entirely to occupant wellbeing: Take Care.Renault Safrane is the first model to benefit from the new 'Take Care' signature thanks to a package of features dedicated to wellbeing and travelling comfort:- a comprehensive, intelligent cabin-air quality control system comprising an activated-carbon air/pollen filter and a toxicity sensor incorporated in the triple-zone climate control system, as well as the air ioniser's Clean mode (see above). - wellbeing features such as the air ioniser's Relax mode (see above), double scent diffuser and massage driver's seat for a reassuringly relaxing ride.
100% CONNECTED:
An advanced, smart navigation system: Carminat TomTom
Renault's latest integrated, connected navigation system - Carminat TomTom® Live - is precise, easy to use and perfectly suited to everyday motoring.
Audio systems that place the emphasis on quality and connectivity.
For customers looking for a high performance surround-sound experience and accurate sound reproduction, Renault Safrane can be ordered with an audio system developed in association with Arkamys®. The 3D Sound by Arkamys® system incorporates:
Eight loudspeakers (four mid-range speakers and four tweeters),
Arkamys® digital sound processing for accurate, three-dimensional sound-surround reproduction,
Dual aerial for optimal audio reception,Bluetooth® connectivity gives drivers access to the functions of their telephone via the car's steering wheel-mounted controls,
Plug&Music connectivity enables music stored on a USB key, portable player, iPod® or smartphone to be played through the car's own audio system. Menus and playlists are displayed on the dashboard.
Bose®: tailor-engineered sound for Renault
To guarantee high-quality sound reproduction and listening enjoyment for all Renault Safrane's occupants, Renault has joined forces with Bose®.
The latter's engineers started from a clean sheet, taking into account not only the materials found inside Latitude's cabin but also more than one thousand acoustic readings. The number, type and position of the Bose® loudspeakers used for the system were carefully selected, while the digital processors and signal equalizers were tuned to match the car's sonic profile. Engineering teams from Bose® and Renault then worked closely together to develop the system which delivers an exceptional audio experience.
The Bose® Sound System engineered for Renault Safrane comprises 10 loudspeakers and a digital amplifier incorporating a Bose sound processor and six-channel individualised equaliser.
The dashboard-mounted centrefill speaker permits passengers to benefit from clear sound and a correctly situated sound centre, whether they are seated on the left- or right-hand side of the car.
The rear parcel shelf incorporates a 23cm-diametre loudspeaker for rich, realistic bass reproduction.
The Bose® system available for Renault Safrane delivers maximum enjoyment and a uniquely realistic listening experience thanks to crystal clear high tones and rich bass sounds, wherever occupants are seated.
At low volumes, the driver and passengers profit from a warm, balanced sound that allows them to benefit from all the nuances of the original recording. Higher volumes enable the system to deliver its full potential without distortion.
Renault Safrane is also equipped with an audible parking proximity sensor coupled with a reversing camera. To facilitate safe reversing, the camera provides a view of the zone situated behind the vehicle on the navigation system's display. On the dashboard screen, meanwhile, a colour-coded image indicates the trajectory to follow to park, while a second image shows the path the car is in the process of taking based on the position of the steering wheel.
The list of practical equipment continues with features like hands-free entry and ignition, and doors that automatically lock as the card-holder walks away from the vehicle.
The cruise control/speed limiter interface is simple and fun to use:
Cruise control mode: a green cursor indicates the selected speed on the speedometer,
Speed limiter mode: in this case, the cursor is orange, but becomes red if the driver exceeds the selected speed.
The electronic parking brake facilitates hill starts and is a particularly practical feature for everyday motoring. It can be activated manually using the control situated on the centre console and is automatically applied when the engine is switched off. It is released by simply pressing on the accelerator pedal with the engine running.
A CAREFULLY-ENGINEERED BLEND OF COMFORT AND PERFORMANCE, AND A CHOICE OF MODERN ENGINES:
Renault Safrane's chassis incorporates an efficient multi-link rear suspension for enhanced ride comfort and driving pleasure. This arrangement combines rigorous steering precision with efficient filtration of vibrations and road noise.
A carefully-engineered blend of comfort and dynamic performance:
Renault Safrane employs the same front suspension as Renault Laguna and is widely acclaimed for its precision. It uses a MacPherson-type layout with a rectangular lower arm and a 21.5mm-diametre antiroll bar. Based on a Nissan development, the rear suspension employs a multi-link arrangement which was selected for its remarkable efficiency and ride comfort thanks to its ability to soak up irregularities in the road surface and isolate the cabin from vibrations. The combination of springs calibrated at 16mm/100DaN and 19mm/100DaN at the front and rear respectively and work on damping ensures outstanding vertical suspension performance and optimised body roll without detracting from ride comfort.
Renault Safrane's big brakes ensure durable stopping power. Thanks to its 296mm or 320mm-dameter ventilated front discs (depending on engine) and 300mm-diameter rear discs, the car comes to a halt in just 39.5 metres after repeated stopping from 100kph.
Three tyre sizes are available depending on engine and equipment level:
215/55 R16
225/50 R17
225/45 R18
For enhanced driving enjoyment along twisty roads, Renault Safrane's precise, low-ratio power steering comes with a stiffened column. Thanks to a ratio of 16:1 (i.e. a 16-degree turn of the steering wheel turns the wheel by one degree), manoeuvring is facilitated and the car's handling is nimbler. The stiffer feel and reduced play allow motorists to benefit from a more direct feel and more precise feedback from the road by reducing the response time between the moment an instruction is given via the steering wheel and the moment the car turns. The other versions feature an active electric pump unit which allows the amount of power assistance to be fine-tuned as a function of the rate of the electric pump, which itself is dictated by the driving conditions. This rate depends on the speed and required level of power assistance (speed, steering wheel angle), a solution which benefits fuel consumption by electrically optimising the input of the pump.
A full range of advanced petrol engines:
The efficient 2.0 16V petrol engine (M4R) delivers peak power of 102 kW (140hp) at 6,000rpm. Mated to the Nissan XTronic continuous variable transmission, it is particularly responsive at low engine speeds, with maximum torque of 191Nm available at 3,700rpm. It permits the 1,000-metre standing start to be covered in a little over 30 seconds.
The quite 2.5 V6 (2ZV) comes in 131 kW power outputs (180 hp) at 4400 rpm. Mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox (AJ0), it delivers a peak torque of 235Nm at 4400 rpm
The powerful 3.5 V6 (5ZV) also mated to a 6 speed automatic transmission develops 169 kW (240hp) at 6000 rpm. Maximum torque (320 Nm) is available from 4200 rpm
RIGOROUSLY DESIGNED FOR EXACTING MOTORISTS:
To guarantee a level of reliability and durability that matches the demanding conditions encountered in majority of its markets, Renault Safrane was put through its paces during an intensive endurance testing programme. Development work also focused on delivering superior safety performance and the model comes with a comprehensive list of equipment, including standard ABS and emergency brake assist, as well as ESC (only on 3.5 V6 engine), adaptive airbags, three-point seat belts (with pretensioners and load limiters), cruise control with speed limiter.
Reliability and durability proven in endurance tests carried out in extreme conditions:
In the course of its development, Renault Safrane underwent an extensive endurance testing programme in punishing conditions (extreme heat, extreme cold, poor roads, dust, etc.). More than 30 test vehicles were employed, accumulating almost 1.1 million kilometres in total. The brief was particularly exacting to make sure that Renault Safrane is capable of taking the sort of demanding road conditions found in the majority of its markets in its stride.
Like all Renault's high-end vehicles, Safrane comes with a three-year or 100,000km warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty.
Safety performance engineered to match customer expectations and real word situations:
Like all the vehicles that make up the Renault range, Safrane's benefits significantly from the work carried out by LAB#, as well as from the brand's own engineering expertise which was used to develop the most efficient response to the real world situations encountered in the different markets where Safrane will be sold:
ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution,
Emergency brake assist and automatic activation of hazard warning lights,/
ESC (Electronic Stability Control) with CSV understeer control, only on V6 3.5 engine
Cruise control with speed limiter,
Tyre pressure monitoring system,
Adaptive bi-Xenon cornering headlights,
Adaptive driver and front passenger airbags, two dual-chamber thorax-groin lateral airbags (combined with twin side-impact sensors) and two curtain airbags,
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiter at front
Driver/front passenger Seat Belt Reminder and 'seat belt fastened' light for the three rear seats,
Three-point Isofix anchorage for outer rear seats,
A strong commitment on the environmental front:
Renault Safrane is 95 per cent end-of-life recoverable (by weight), and more than five per cent of the plastics it contains (average for the model: 11kg) are sourced from recycling.
Safranes high and low
Renault Safrane stands out as an eloquent symbol of Renault's internationalisation. Designed jointly in France and Korea, and with assemblies developed by Renault and Nissan, it provides owners with the best of the Renault group's and the Alliance's know-how.
Renault Safrane is manufactured at Renault-Samsung-Motors' Busan plant in Korea. This environmentally respectful, ISO 14001-certified factory boasts long experience of the production of quality, high-end cars (SM5, SM7, QM5, Renault Koleos).
'DRIVE THE CHANGE'THE NEW BASELINE OF THE RENAULT BRAND AND GROUP'Drive the Change', the new baseline of the Renault brand and Group, is true to the brand's values and expresses the ambition of Renault, an innovative, human company, to pioneer sustainable mobility for all. France's number-one car brand, Renault builds on more than 110 years of innovation to bring customers breakthrough top-quality products and services that are ingenious, appealing, affordable and carbon-efficient.Renault's new baseline expresses the deep-rooted values of our business culture - enthusiastic, innovative, human - and forges a new path in automotive design and use.-Ends-
For more information, please contact:
Wael A Samad
w.asamad@polaris-me.com
Riyadh, KSA
Tel: +966 50 444 0079
Zohra M'Salka
Communication Manager
Renault GCC
zohra.m-salka@renault.com
© Press Release 2010
