FOUR wheel steering is set to make a come-back when Renault unleashes its new Laguna GT.
This new high performance model will be available in hatchback and estate formats, with the latter being referred to as a Laguna Sport Tourer GT, and with a a choice of two new petrol and diesel engines with outputs of 205bhp and 180bhp respectively, both of which make their debut in this car.
But the big news is the return of four wheel steering, which Renault calls Active Drive. Systems like this were all the rage a couple of decades ago, but operated mechanically where the new Renault system uses sophisticated electronics.
Renault claims the new system brings many benefits including improved manoeuvrability, sharpened dynamic response, and unrivalled steering precision.
Visually the Laguna GT differs from its lesser stablemates thanks to its 18-inch alloys, front splitter with air intakes to the sides, darkened rear light glass, leather and alcantara upholstery, aluminium for the gear knob and pedals plus a sports steering wheel.
The diesel is powered by a two litre turbocharged engine offering a 0 to 60mph acceleration time of 8.5 seconds, economy of 40mpg and a CO2 figure of 172g/km while the two litre turbo petrol version has a 0-60mph acceleration time of 7.8 seconds, economy of 34mpg and a CO2 figure of 194g/km.
Prices start from £21,050 for the Hatch and £22,000 for Sport Tourer and both models will be available to order from May 9.