The Renault Laguna II (BG0 generation for the sedan, KG0 for the Estate wagon) is a notoriously famous model in the history of French automobiles. Launched in 2001, it was a pioneer in terms of safety (the first car in the world to obtain 5 stars in the Euro NCAP crash test) and technology (hands-free card, advanced multiplexing, tire pressure sensors). However, its rushed launch led to an industrial catastrophe in terms of reliability for Phase 1 (2001-2005), particularly concerning diesel engines (1.9 dCi 120 and 2.2 dCi 150) and onboard electronics. The March 2005 facelift (Phase 2) corrected the vast majority of defects and introduced the excellent chain-driven 2.0 dCi engine, making the 2005-2007 models very reliable. Unfortunately, the damage was done, and the model's popularity (as
The Renault Laguna II is the perfect example of a car to avoid or cherish depending on its production year. If you are looking for a diesel from before 2005 (1.9 dCi 120 or 2.2 dCi), walk away without the slightest hesitation, the risk of engine failure or financial ruin is critical. On the other hand, a Laguna II Phase 2 (2005-2007) equipped with the 2.0 dCi (150 or 175 hp) is an excellent deal: it offers the comfort and safety of a grand tourer for the price of a used city car, with mechanical reliability that has become irreproachable. Petrol versions (excluding 2.0 IDE) are also very good economic choices.