For a long time, Renault had been trying to design a compact sedan that would be good enough to make solid sales numbers, but they continually failed. In the previous decades, they produced a sedan version of the popular Megane, but it never sold anywhere near the original hatchback model.
In short, the company still needed a small family sedan that would fill the slot between the Megane hatchback and the large Laguna, prompting them to come out with a new nameplate - Renault Fluence. Once again, it was heavily based on the Megane, expecting improved sales.
Unfortunately, the new model wasn't particularly impressive, which was why the French automaker produced the Fluence in only one generation, reverting to the Megane nameplate afterwards.
The First Generation of Renault Fluence (2010-2015)
As just mentioned, the Fluence came as a replacement for the second-generation Megane sedan. It debuted in 2008, though the Australian version was introduced a few years later. That model came in 2010 as the Renault Fluence, and it remained in production until 2015. In many parts of the world, it remained in production until 2020.
It's also worth mentioning the 2012 facelift, which made this car more appealing, thanks to updates like a new grille, headlights, and other exterior accessories.
Design
Although it came with a new name, the Renault Fluence wasn’t significantly different from its predecessor. Once again, Renault’s compact sedan was based on the Megane hatchback, both in terms of aesthetics and mechanics.
Mechanically, the two models were very similar, both were built over the updated C platform, which brought a couple of notable improvements over second-generation Megane. The chassis was lighter but stiffer, while suspension modifications made the ride quality even better.
Speaking of the suspension setup, the new Renault Fluence offered a balanced layout, which combined traditional technical solutions with some more advanced components.
At the front, there is a typical McPherson setup, with an anti-roll bar, coil springs and hydraulic double-acting shock absorbers. The rear suspension is based on a classic torsion bar, combining with coil springs and a hydraulic double-acting shock absorber.
Such a setup provided a pretty good driving experience. Once again, Renault had one of the most comfortable models in the class, capable of absorbing most road imperfections without sacrificing athleticism too much.
The Fluence is reasonably quiet at higher speeds, while the steering is precise enough to satisfy most drivers. The brakes are the same as the third-generation Megane – ventilated discs at the front and classic discs on rear wheels.
The Renault Fluence 2012 facelift involved the front end, in the form of a new grille, new projector-style headlights, and a few more tweaks.
Dimensions
In terms of size, the Fluence is notably bigger than the second-generation Megane sedan from every aspect. Moreover, dimensions were respectable for the segment at the time, as the car was just 77mm shorter than the third-generation Laguna, a large family car. This small sedan features a 2,702mm wheelbase and weighs between 1,225–1,277 kg.
Renault Fluence Dimensions
- Wheelbase: 2,702mm
- Length: 4,618mm
- Height: 1,501mm
- Width: 1,813mm
- Ground clearance: 156mm
- Weight: 1,225-1,277 kg
- Turning circle: 11.1m
- Rear track: 1,563mm
- Front track: 1,545mm
Engine and Performance
Around the globe, Renault Fluence was available in various configurations regarding powertrain and transmission. It was available with petrol or diesel engines, and CVT, dual-clutch, or manual gearboxes.
However, things were much simpler Down Under. Here, this small sedan came with just one engine on the offer and two transmission choices.
The engine is a familiar 2.0-litre normally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol unit from Renault, featuring a max power of 103kW and a max torque of 195 Nm, which seems okay for an average driver.
With a 6-speed manual gearbox, it could hit 100km/h in a little over 10 seconds. In terms of fuel economy, models with the manual gearbox are good for about 10.5L/100km in city ride and 6.1L/100km on the highway.
Renault Fluence Engine Specs and Performance
- Engine Capacity: 1997cc
- Number of Cylinders: 4 (inline)
- Forced Induction: -
- Fuel Type: Regular Unleaded Petrol
- Maximum power: 103kW
- Maximum torque: 195Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic; CVT
- Acceleration (0-100km/h): 10.4s
- Top Speed: 195km/h
- Fuel Consumption: 7.8L/100km (combined); 10.5L/100km (urban); 6.1L/100km (extra urban)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 60L
Grades
The Renault Fluence was available in two grades in Australia.
The base version, known as Dynamique, was already packed with many standard features. Some highlights are 16-inch alloy wheels, two-zone climate control, cruise control, cloth seats, fog lights, keyless entry and ignition, leather-wrapped steering wheel, 6-speaker audio system and rain-sensing wipers, to name a few.
The upgrade was available in the form of Privilege trim, which was equipped with a few extras, such as bigger 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, parking sensors, power sunroof, navigation, and 8-speaker audio system.
Both grades we equipped with the same 2.0-litre engine. However, the base Dynamique was available with either CVT or manual gearbox, while the Privilege model was offered exclusively with CVT.
Why Was Renault Fluence Discontinued?
Renault Fluence was a pretty good car at the time. It was comfortable and easy to drive, with engaging handling and decent mechanics; yet all these qualities couldn’t help it escape the destiny of its predecessors.
In most markets where it was offered, sales numbers weren't good. That's the reason why the nameplate was discontinued after just one generation, and once again reverting to the Megane nameplate.
Interestingly, the successor is called Megane Grand Coupe, even though it still features a classic sedan body style.
Want to replace your old Fluence for a new Megane Grand Coupe? You can register on our website and advertise your Fluence or any other used car for sale. We will be glad to help you find interested buyers. Advertise now!
By Nebojsa Grmusa