RENAULT dealers have started taking orders for the clean-lined new Laguna Coupe ahead of first deliveries in January 2009.

At launch, four engines will be available, evenly split between petrol and diesel: starting with the 2.0 Turbo 205 and 3.5 V6 240 petrols, followed by the 2.0 dCi 150 and 2.0 dCi 180 FAP diesels.

The latter receives a 5hp power increase from the current dCi 175 in the rest of the New Laguna range, together with a particulate filter.

The new flagship diesel engine, 3.0 V6 dCi 235 FAP, arrives in early 2009. Automatic transmission is available on the 2.0 dCi 150 and standard on 3.5 V6 240 and 3.0 V6 dCi 235.

Standard Coupe trim level includes Arkamys 3D Sound 140W audio system with MP3 CD reader and Bluetooth, 18 inch alloy wheels, eight airbags, automatic lights and wipers, dual zone climate control, electric heated door mirrors, MP3 player connection, rear parking sensors, Super Fold rear seat system, twin chrome exhausts (except 2.0 dCi 150 manual) and xenon headlights.

The top-of-the-range GT benefits from Renault’s 4Control chassis, first seen on GT versions of New Laguna Hatch and Sport Tourer which features four-wheel steering.

In addition it adds: cruise control, automatic parking brake, electrochrome rear view mirror, electrically heated and folding door mirrors, GT leather steering wheel, leather upholstery (choice of beige, dark carbon, light grey or ’camel’), Renault Hands Free keycard and speed limiter.

Options for luxury customisation include: Bose sound system; full colour 3D satellite navigation with Bluetooth and 230W audio system; MP3 6CD changer (in-dash); heated front seats with driver’s side electrically adjustable with memory and tyre pressure monitor. Prices range from £20,995 to £27,995.