Renault Laguna GT with 4WS Active Drive chassis

Renault has taken the wraps off its new Laguna GT performance range ahead of the worldwide launch penciled in for next month’s Geneva Motor Show. Debuting in the model lineup is Renault’s four-wheel steering Active Drive chassis as well as two high-performance engines in the form of a diesel 2.0L dCi with 180hp and a petrol 2.0L turbo with 205hp.

Sister brand Nissan unsuccessfully marketed a range of 4WS models through the ‘90s but the extra cost and the weight disadvantage of the system won it few fans considering its only real benefit was a slight reduction in understeer. Renault has updated the system and designers claim it enhances maneuverability, steering response and accuracy. The new design uses a computer to monitor steering inputs, vehicle speed and traction every 10 milliseconds and adjusts the angle of the rear wheels to suit.

The GT differs from the regular Laguna models thanks to its steeply-raked bonnet, new bumpers and grille, large air intakes and blacked out headlights. Rolling stock consists of 225mm Bridgestone Potenza tires wrapped around 18in alloy wheels. Inside these are 320mm diameter discs at the front and 300mm discs at the rear which provide plenty of braking bite.

Other sporty touches include gloss black wing mirrors and smoked rear lamp units. Inside, GT logos are embossed on light grey Alcantara seats and are complimented by cross-drilled aluminum pedal, a sports gearshift knob and a new steering wheel.