Renault Laguna Coupe

Let's play spec games. This new Monaco GP limited edition Laguna Coupe costs £24,995. You can't change its specification. It is what it is: pearlescent white paint, satin black ‘Interlagos' wheels, lots of extras, and the dCi 180 turbodiesel engine with six-speed manual transmission. Is it good value at £25k?

Specify any of its German rivals to the same level, and you'll see that the GP is very good value - you'll also see that the German brands charge like badly wounded rhinos for options.It's quite a big car, the Laguna Coupe, 10mm longer than an Audi A5, so let's play our spec game and get the Audi to the same level as the Renault.

The A5 would be an SE with the 170bhp/258lb ft 2.0-litre TDI, to match the Renault's 180bhp/295lb ft diesel, then fitted with (deep breath): Valcona leather, satnav, high-spec stereo and communications package, pearlescent paint, 18in wheels, electrically folding mirrors, auto-dimming interior mirror, decorative inlays, through-load facility, interior lighting package, electric and heated front seats, advanced key, navigation and technology package, Bang & Olufsen sound system and sports suspension to match the Laguna's standard spec. The price? £37,315.

The base A5 TDI, with nothing on, is £28,960. I'd have the Renault and enjoy the kit. The Audi can't make up such a difference.  

Bill Thomas

Performance: 0-62mph in 8.5secs, max speed 139mph, 45.6mpg
Tech: 1995cc, 4cyl, FWD, 180bhp, 295lb ft, 1539kg, 163g/km CO2