Renault's answer to slow demand in the mid-sized segment is called the Talisman, a global car that replaces the Laguna. In terms of design, it's way more modern, but the engine range has been downsized.
On paper at least, smaller engines are always better for fuel economy. So instead of 2.0-liter engines, the Talisman largely uses 1.6-liter ones.
It hasn't made the car any lighter, as this particular wagon weighs a crossover-like 1,615 kilograms (3,560 pounds). That's partly because the wagon body adds about a hundred kilos but also because of the complexity of the powertrain.
Unlike the 1.6-liter engine in your grandpa's car, this one is a diesel burner that uses not one but two turbochargers. One works at low revs while the other kicks in later to offer a maximum output of 160 hp and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque.
When linked to an EDC twin-clutch gearbox, this engine is capable of getting the Talisman GrandTour wagon to 100 km/h in 9.6 seconds. But that's only in theory, as it looks like it takes over 10 in this video. What's more, the claimed top speed of 213 km/h is never achieved, as the Renault runs out of puff at 203 km/h (126 mph).
This doesn't really put the Talisman wagon in any danger, as most wagons are slow and heavy these days. For example, the Ford Mondeo Estate needs 8.7 seconds to reach the benchmark speed, despite its 180 hp 2.0-liter punch. Meanwhile, the Mazda6 Wagon with the 175 hp 2.2-liter and a 6-speed automatic does the same in 8.6 seconds.
What the numbers don't reveal is how fun the Ford and Mazda can be on a twisty bit of road.
With slow contenders like the Renault Talisman, it's no wonder people are continuing to migrate to SUVs. But that's what happens when you downsize and pipe exhaust sound through the speakers.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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