Renault South Africa has expanded its 2013 Fluence range with the introduction of the new Fluence Dynamique 2.0 litre sedan, which boasts a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This car now slots in on top of the Fluence lineup that was launched locally in mid-May.

The Dynamique CVT’s 2.0 litre 16V petrol engine churns out 103 kW at 6000 RPM, as well as 195 Nm of torque at 3700 RPM. This enables the sedan to sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in around 10 seconds onto a terminal velocity of 195 km/h. More conservatively-minded drivers should see a combined-cycle (town and highway driving) fuel consumption figure of 7.7 litres per 100 km.

Highlighting the benefits of CVT

Renault stated that its CVT technology was developed to address key customer requirements such as performance, comfort and fuel savings. The transmission has been set up to be highly responsive on starts as well as at low speeds, in order to deliver peak performance through city traffic.

From a comfort perspective, the new transmission option should ensure a smoother driving experience by avoiding gearshift shocks. This gearbox will also enable the powerplant to run at its most efficient RPM, helping to reduce fuel consumption by at least 3% when compared to the manual alternative.

Equipment and safety

Both the Fluence Dynamique 2.0 litre 16V manual and CVT derivatives sport cruise control with speed limiter function, LED daytime running lights, auto rain and light sensors, as well as front- and rear park distance control sensors.

Also onboard is an integrated touchscreen with TomTom satellite navigation, new sound system by Arkamys that features USB and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as Renault hands-free, keyless card system complemented by a coded electronic engine immobiliser system.

In terms of safety, the Dynamique CVT offers ABS braking, EBA (electronic braking assistance), EBD (electronic brake-force distribution), and ESP (electronic stability control) as standard.

There is a full complement of six airbags along with anti-whiplash height-adjustable front headrests, while the safety belt system packs a double pretensioner in the front seats and load limiter in the rear.

Pricing

• New Fluence Dynamique 2.0 litre 16V CVT           R264 900
• New Fluence Dynamique 2.0 litre 16V                    R254 900
• New Fluence Expression 1.6 litre 16V                    R219 900

All three of the Fluence variants come with Renault’s standard five year or 150 000 km mechanical warranty, five year or 90 000 km service plan (optionally upgradable to a full maintenance plan), with service intervals staggered at 15 000 km. In addition, buyers receive a comprehensive roadside assistance plan for the duration of the warranty period, as well as guaranteed parts availability or a mobility solution until parts become available.

“The new Fluence is a premium vehicle in terms of its deluxe design, up-to-the-minute features and solid performance and is truly the standout auto alternative to the conservatively-styled mainstream contenders in the C-segment sedan category,” said Fabien Payzan, VP of Marketing and Communications at Renault South Africa.

In other motoring related news, Hyundai recently launched the Sonata 2.4 GDI Elite, read out first impressions of the vehicle here.