2003 Renault Laguna Dynamique Techno review from UK and Ireland

Satellite navigation playing up.

Annoying rattles from engine and rear part of exhaust.

Car sometimes refuses to start.

Radio cover panel has difficulty closing.

Having only recently acquired my Laguna, I am somewhat disappointed in it already.

I was recommended the car from an avid Laguna fan who has driven them for years.

The Dynamic Techno has a good trim level for its price. Alcantra plus leather make the car feel more expensive than it clearly is.

Wheels are great. Nice 5 spoke 17 inch with 225 45 Zr 17 tyres. This is great if you are a fleet driver. If you are buying private, think of the cost. These tires do not come cheap.

Satellite navigation is fine, but do not use in central London. Try doing a u-turn when there is a central concrete barrier? I think not!. Also it has told me to turn into one way streets at the wrong end and tells you to change lanes too late.

You cannot listen to a CD when you are using the Satellite navigation. This is due to the system needing it's own CD to navigate as software. I would suggest upgrading the sound system if you are an avid CD listener like myself.

I have generally found Renault dealers very unhelpful when it has come to sorting out these problems.

As for the rattle from the exhaust, I ended up fixing it myself. There is a heat shield around the exhaust which vibrates against the pipe. Luckily it is made of thin metal and is easily bent out of the way by a length of two by four!

I had a rattle coming from under the bonnet. Again, no help from the dealer, but I found by myself that it is the air filter rattling in it's casing. Great pre-production testing Renault!

Fuel economy is very poor. The engine is still tight and in need of running in. I get 28 mpg! I thought a 2.2 diesel would return slightly higher than that.

I recommend the comfort pack 1. Enormous electric sunroof, (on sport tourer) plus climate control.

Climate is well worth getting.

The Xenon headlights are a must. Much cleaner than regular bulbs.

I dislike the plastic wings on this car. Even though this is the safest car on the road, it just isn't right.

For over twenty thousand pounds I would choose something else given the chance.

My previous car was a V5 Golf with upgraded wheels, suspension and Xenon lamps. This cost less than my Laguna! Take the Pepsi challenge, I know what I would choose!