What is it like?

Ownership cost

Advice for buyers

Our recommendations

Alternatives

Hatchback

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

Distinctive styling gives the Renault Laguna a chic feel. It may not have the best badge on the front, but it's still great value

Used Renault Laguna Hatchback 2007 - 2012

The 1.5-litre diesel averages an impressive 57.6mpg, while the 2.0-litre diesels manage between 47.1mpg and 43.4mpg, depending on the model. The 2.0-litre petrol produces a reasonable 35.7mpg, while the automatic version drops to 31.7mpg. The GT models come in at 34.4mpg for the petrol and 43.4mpg for the diesel.

The lower-powered diesel also slots into a low road tax band, with CO2 emissions of 130g/km. The auto models are the heaviest emitters at 210g/km.

Servicing costs are on a par with most cars in the class, although some key rivals, such as the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/mondeo/hatchback/review/n15">Ford Mondeo</a>, are cheaper. The same goes for insurance.

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

Distinctive styling gives the Renault Laguna a chic feel. It may not have the best badge on the front, but it's still great value

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 economical option, but the 128bhp 2.0-litre is the best all rounder. Anyone with a need for more speed should consider the 148bhp or 173bhp 2.0-litre versions.

Go for the 138bhp 2.0-litre petrol model if the price is low enough, or the turbocharged 2.0-litre automatic with 168bhp.

Air-con, alloy wheels and four electric windows are standard on the entry-level Expression. Dynamique adds 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 2008, with its four-wheel steering and larger wheels and tyres for a more responsive drive. While the four-wheel drive improves cornering ability the bigger wheels amplify the already firm ride. The Laguna GT is available with a choice of two engine options: a 201bhp turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol and a 178bhp 2.0-litre diesel.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter <a href="https://pages.haymarket.com/whatcar/wcar-form.html">here</a>

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Plenty of practical space </li> <li>Low running costs </li> <li>A comfortable ride </li> <li>A healthy equipment list </li> <li>Quality materials and thoughtful touches inside </li> <li>Rock-solid reliability</li></ul>

Family cars arguably have the toughest brief of all: they have to be good at pretty much everything. They’re used as the daily drive, on the school run or work commute (often both), and have to be able to cope with a family’s clutter on weekends and holidays.

The Skoda Scala is a relative newcomer, but it's&nbsp;already carved out a name for itself in this segment.&nbsp;If you're looking for a moderately priced car that combines a supple ride, neat handling, a spacious interior and a capacious boot&nbsp;it's well worth a look.&nbsp;Alternatively, if you're looking for entertaining handling then the&nbsp;BMW 1 Series may well be for you. It's great to drive, rides well&nbsp;and also comes with a top-notch interior, featuring one of our very favourite infotainment systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Toyota Corolla&nbsp;is another great choice. This latest version of one of the world's best-selling cars of all time can be had with a choice of two different petrol-electric hybrid engines, both of which should mean&nbsp;potentially lower fuel bills. It's comfortable, well equipped and should be very reliable, too.&nbsp;

Family

Since its launch in 2007, the Laguna has fared well in terms of reliability, with owners generally pleased with its performance.

However, even though the cabin feels solid 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 have been well maintained, but ensure that the service history is up to date.

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

It's the quintessential fleet car, but that doesn't stop the third-generation Renault Laguna offering great value on the used market. Higher than average depreciation from new means you get a lot of car for your money.

Previous models had a stodgy ride, but this version of the Laguna, introduced in 2007, is good to drive, has sharp steering and plenty of grip through corners. However, the firm ride can be uncomfortable on some roads.

Wind and road noise is kept to a minimum - even at motorway speeds.

Knee- and legroom is good throughout the cabin, but the sloping roofline will cause problems for taller rear-seat passengers. The boot is too shallow, which limits practicality.

The quality of cabin materials, and the contemporary design of the dashboard give the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/renault">Renault</a> an upmarket feel.

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

Used Renault Laguna Hatchback 2007 - 2012 review

Why the overall winner won

Best small SUV

Best family car

Best small electric car

Best luxury car

Car of the Year Awards 2023 >>

site ribbon config

Looking for alternatives to the used Renault Laguna 2007 - 2012? The expert What Car? review team guide you through some great options.

Car of the Year Awards 2023 >>

Used Renault Laguna Hatchback 2007 - 2012 review

Renault Laguna 2.0 DCi Dynamique TomTom Euro 5 5dr

Renault Laguna 2.0 16V Initiale Tourer Euro 4 5dr

Alternatives

What alternatives should I consider to a used Renault Laguna hatchback?

What Car? has a buying service

Quick search

Tools & services

Legal bits

Information