Item: Used Renault Laguna Estate 2007 - 2012
Author: Steve Huntingford

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Hatchbacks, SUVs, fast cars, electric cars: Renault makes them all, in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it has a line-up designed to tempt pretty much everyone.

From the roadside, the standout feature of them all is the design, with its cars now having a distinctive look that has won the firm a legion of fans for its flair and charm.

To drive and to own, the line-up is typically decent rather than outstanding. Best of the cars when they are rated against rivals are the Kadjar SUV, the fast RS models and the electric Zoe.

With new and used pricing also keen – and Target Price discounts through our New Car Buying marketplace usually more generous than most – there is the opportunity to negotiate an appealing price.

RENAULT

LAGUNA

Capable and likeable - the Renault Laguna Estate isn't the best family estate, but it's worth the money

Used Renault Laguna Estate 2007 - 2012

The 1.5-litre diesel averages an impressive 56.6mpg, while the 2.0-litre diesels manage between 46.3mpg and 42.8mpg depending on the model. The 2.0-litre petrol produces a reasonable 35.3mpg, while the automatic version drops to 31.7mpg. The petrol GT models manage 34.0mpg and the diesel 42.2mpg.

The 1.5-litre diesel also slots into a low road tax band, with emissions of 133g/km of CO2. The petrol-powered automatic models are the dirtiest emitters at 210g/km.

Servicing costs are average for this type of car, although some key rivals, such as the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/mondeo/estate/review/n107">Ford Mondeo estate</a>, are cheaper. The same goes for insurance.

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Capable and likeable - the Renault Laguna Estate isn't the best family estate, but it's worth the money

Diesel Lagunas are the safest place for your money, because they have better long-term resale values than petrols.

The 110bhp 1.5-litre diesel model is the most economical option, but the 128bhp 2.0-litre unit is the best all-rounder. If you intend to load up the Laguna, you should think about the 148bhp or 173bhp 2.0-litre versions, as the extra power will come in handy.

Consider the 2.0-litre petrol model with 138bhp if the price is low enough, however, or the turbocharged 2.0-litre auto with 168bhp.

Air-con, alloys and electric windows all round are standard on entry-level Expression models. Dynamique gets half-leather seats and cruise control, while the Initial comes with electrically adjustable leather seats, parking sensors and sat-nav.

Renault introduced the GT in early 2008 version, which has four-wheel steering and larger wheels and tyres for more responsive dynamics. While the four-wheel steering improves cornering ability, the larger wheels amplify the already firm ride. The Laguna GT is available with a choice of two engines: a 201bhp turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol and a 178bhp 2.0-litre diesel.

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<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Huge boot and excellent practicality</li> <li>Plenty of interior space so you can carry passengers as well as luggage </li> <li>Strong engines to pull a heavily laden car</li> <li>Comfortable ride, especially on the motorway</li> <li>Low running costs for company car drivers</li></ul>

If you’re after bags of space but you don’t want to commit to the van-like dimensions and styling of an MPV, there are some great estate cars on offer that should do the job.

Tricks to look out for include an electric tailgate&nbsp;that opens automatically when you wave your foot under the rear bumper; this is&nbsp;particularly handy if you’re trying to load in a heavy or&nbsp;bulky item. You should also look for handles in the side of the boot itself that can drop down the rear seats; these are much more convenient than having to walk around the side of the car to do it.

There are some terrific estates at most price ranges. The humble Skoda Fabia Estate offers cavernous space for not much cash at all, for example.

Further up the price range, another of our perennial favourites is the Skoda Superb Estate;&nbsp;it’s great to drive and as practical as most people should ever need. Meanwhile, for serious mile-munching ability and a premium, well-finished interior, it’s hard to look beyond the BMW 5 Series Touring.

The third-generation Laguna has faired well in terms of reliability, with owners generally pleased with its performance.

However, although the cabin feels solid and well built, there have been instances of bits of trim breaking or working loose. The areas around the doors appear particularly vulnerable, so check them carefully.

Previous-generation Renault Lagunas have suffered a number of reliability problems. Axle, suspension and electric faults account for around 60% of all issues and, although the current car shows no signs of being as susceptible, you should still give these areas a thorough examination.

The Laguna is a popular company and fleet car, but don't let that put you off. Most are cared for and well maintained, just make sure the service history is up to date.

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If you want an estate with an upmarket feel, but you're working on a tight budget, then the third-generation Renault Laguna Estate should be on your short list.

Distinctive styling sets the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/renault">Renault</a> apart from its rivals, and there's space inside for five. The boot isn't the largest in the class, and the sloping roofline limits load space, but it will still handle most people's needs.

Previous models had a stodgy ride, but this Laguna, introduced in 2007, has sharp steering and plenty of grip. The only downside is the overly firm ride, which will be uncomfortable on some roads.

The quality of cabin materials, and the contemporary design of the dashboard, give the Renault a classy feel. Wind noise is kept in check - even at motorway speeds - but road noise can be a problem.

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Used Renault Laguna Estate 2007 - 2012 review

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