The Renault Laguna III (BT0 generation for the sedan, KT0 for the Estate wagon, DT0 for the Coupé) had the difficult task of making people forget the catastrophic reliability of the first Laguna II models. Designed under Carlos Ghosn's quality excellence plan, it is paradoxically one of the most reliable family cars of its generation. While its exterior design was often deemed too conservative or divisive, its road qualities are exceptional, enhanced by the '4Control' four-wheel steering system (introduced on GT trims). On the used car market, it still suffers from an image deficit linked to its predecessor, which makes it an absolute bargain, particularly with petrol engines, where it shines with robustness worthy of the best Japanese cars (thanks in particular to synergies with Nissan).
The Renault Laguna III is the archetype of a 'good deal' on the used market. A victim of the disastrous reputation of the Laguna II, it was shunned when new and sold off cheaply as a used car. Yet, it is one of the most reliable family cars of its decade. If you are looking for a petrol engine, the 2.0 16v 140 hp (M4R) is a masterful choice: chain-driven timing, Nissan origin, smooth operation, and E85 compatibility (on some versions). For more dynamism, the 2.0T (F4Rt) coupled with the 4Control chassis (GT trim) offers high-flying road performance for a derisory budget. Buy with your eyes closed if the maintenance history is clear.