Geneva Motor Show - Renault

What's the star of the stand?
The Altica – a coupe-cum-estate car that paves the way for future models like the Laguna.

After appearing on several other concepts, the front-end look for this Geneva model car is now a familiar Renault characteristic.

The Laguna is expected to be one of the first cars to have this look when it goes on sale in 2007. That year will also see the introduction of the company's first true 4x4, a Land Rover Freelander-sized model based on the Egeus concept, and the next Twingo city car.

After that, Renault will launch the next-generation Megane – one of 26 models to be launched between now and 2009.

Nice seats and more scissors
Renault is particularly good at making very nice interiors for its concept cars. The Altica has four, fixed leather seats which branch off from a central spine.

Instead of moving his or her seat, the driver can find the right position by electrically adjusting the steering wheel and pedals instead.

Like many other concepts, the Altica has scissor-action doors – they are almost certain to be no more than a distant memory by the time any model arrives in showrooms.

They say
The mosaic design of the rear quarterlights allows sunlight to filter into the cabin, much like it does through stained glass windows, and gives the interior a more welcoming feel.

We say
Crikey! More tea, vicar?