Renault Logan GCC version debuts in UAE

Renault has unveiled the Logan across all its GCC dealers. The sub-compact sedan is essentially a rebadged version of the Dacia Logan, whose original aim could best be described as being the cheapest car in Europe.

Around for the better part of this decade in Europe, this Eastern European sedan has been updated for 2009, and it is this newer version that will make its debut in Dubai.

The powerful 1.6-litre 4-cylinder engine boasts a superb 105 hp at 5750 rpm, with amazing peak torque of 148 Nm at 3750 rpm, helping the lightweight car zoom to a lightning-quick top speed of 183 kph.

The new Logan joins Renault’s GCC line-up of increasingly economical models such as the Korean Safrane and the Turkish Symbol, among the handful of real French offerings.

The fully-loaded interior comes with superb new features such as a “new driver’s seat adjustment control” and “comma-type central rear headrests” as well as “large format door mirrors.”

Depending on the model, the Logan PE offers a “satin” central console, a 5-function on-board computer and electric self-demisting door mirrors. On the Logan SE, features include “carbon Geneva” upholstery, chrome rims, fog lamps, and central locking. Rumours of a future Wolverine model are unfounded.

On the passive safety front, the new Logan features a new honeycomb structure for the dashboard, which reduces the severity of impact to the knees. Driver and front passenger also benefit from further lower limb protection, thanks to underfoot padding. All Logan seats are equipped with three-point seatbelts and headrests, while the new car is delivered in its upper version with two airbags. The Logan also comes with a 3-year or 100,000 km warranty.

We were expecting prices to start at around Dhs 30,000 in the UAE, but we now hear the basic version costs Dhs 37,000.