Renault Altica's new 177hp 2.0 dCi particulate filter-equipped diesel engine takes the car from a standing start to 100kph in just 7.5s. Coupled with a six-speed gearbox, this powerplant - which boasts maximum torque of 380Nm - provides excellent pull-away and mid-range acceleration response.

This hasn't been achieved to the detriment of fuel consumption however. The Renault-Nissan Alliance engine is very inexpensive to run and fuel consumption is equivalent to 140g of CO2 per kilometre. In terms of both performance and driving pleasure, it stands out as the best diesel engine in its class.

Renault Altica's low fuel consumption also stems from its exceptional aerodynamics. Located at the extremity of the roof at the point where the vehicle and the passing air flow separate, a discreet mechanical system generates jets of air which are alternately blown and sucked through a 2mm wide slit. Known as "Synthetic Jet", the system actively controls the separation of the air flow according to the vehicle's speed. This innovative technique, which reduces drag and controls the structure of the air flow, is a Renault patent and reduces the car's Cd at 130kph by 15 per cent for an energy consumption of just 10 Watts.



Evolutions in the small car line-up with Renault Clio II Campus and Renault Modus New Collection

A facelift and equipment upgrades add to the appeal of Renault Clio II Campus

Renault builds on the reputation and acclaimed dynamic performance of Clio II Campus with updated styling and an equipment upgrade. New exterior features introduced to refresh the model's looks include new front- and rear-end designs with body colour bumpers (without protective strips), a new hatch design (number plate now incorporated in the bumper), new chrome "Clio Campus" badging, new wheeltrims and the availability of two new metallic body colours (Amande Green and Extreme Blue).

Inside, new dark charcoal upholstery is available from the Authentique version up, while the Dynamique equipment level continues to come with blue-grey "Ruche" upholstery.

A complementary model to the Clio III range, Renault Clio II Campus continues to represent outstanding value for money in its segment and its line-up has been extended to include the 1.4 16V 100hp engine for both the Authentique and Dynamique versions, while automatic climate control is now also an option.



Renault Modus New Collection: a simplified range, equipment upgrades and a design that exudes quality

The new Modus range focuses on its most appealing and best-selling versions, namely Authentique, Expression, Privilege and Initiale. The emblematic version of Renault Modus New Collection is the Alyum2 Special Edition which features a long list of distinctive and prestigious equipment. Meanwhile, Modus gains in status with the availability of crystal indicators across the range and body colour bumpers from the Authentique version up. The former wave motifs and engine badging on the side protective strips have been dropped, while six new body colours (Roy Blue, Vif Red, Extreme Blue, Poivre Beige, Cuivre Green and Blue-Grey) have been introduced.

Renault Modus Authentique now comes as standard with a 60/40 split rear benchseat incorporating three headrests, Renault Modus Expression features new wheeltrims, while Modus Privilege is equipped with new 15- inch alloy wheels and two loudspeakers at the rear. Black tinted headlamp glass is standard on Initiale versions.

Inside, perceived quality has been enhanced thanks to the introduction of new finishes for the central dashboard fascia and airvents, plus the use of more prestigious materials for the dashboard, namely a painted cowling and a foam dash body for Alyum2 Special Edition, Privilege and Initiale.

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