Renault Drops Four Models from UK Range in 2012 Restructuring
Laguna, Espace, Wind and Modus are being withdrawn from Renault’s UK line-up as the brand seeks profitability, with dealer closures and new launches to follow.
Renault will withdraw the Laguna, Espace, Wind and Modus from its UK range in early 2012 as part of a major restructuring aimed at reversing losses in the British market. The company confirmed the move applies to the UK only, with the models continuing elsewhere in Europe.
The cuts are scheduled to take effect from February 2012. The Laguna, including the coupe, will leave UK showrooms alongside the Espace people carrier, the small Wind roadster and the Modus supermini-MPV. Passenger versions of the Kangoo and Trafic vans are also being dropped. Renault’s UK subsidiary has struggled to turn a profit in recent years, prompting the decision to focus on higher-volume and more competitive models.
Dealer closures and aftersales changes
Renault’s restructuring goes beyond the product line. Around a third of the brand’s mainstream UK dealerships are set to close. The company will also alter its aftersales package, shifting to a four-year/100,000 mile warranty, four years of roadside assistance and a four-year/48,000 mile servicing plan. These changes are intended to cut costs and streamline the network to match the reduced model range.
Focus shifts to new models and electric vehicles
Despite the withdrawals, Renault will introduce several new models in the UK during 2012. The electric Twizy is due in March, the Fluence Z.E. in May and the Zoe in October. Updated versions of the Twingo, Scenic and Megane are also scheduled, along with the new Clio in November. Renault’s strategy is to concentrate on models with stronger sales prospects and to build its presence in the electric vehicle sector.
- Laguna: Large family car, including coupe version
- Espace: Large people carrier
- Wind: Compact two-seat roadster
- Modus: Small MPV/supermini
Implications for buyers and dealers
Buyers in the UK will see a slimmer Renault line-up, with fewer choices in the large car and MPV segments. Existing owners of the discontinued models will retain access to aftersales support, but the shrinking dealer network may mean longer journeys for servicing or warranty work. Dealers losing their franchise face job losses or the need to find alternative brands.
The move reflects Renault’s need to address persistent losses in a competitive UK market. The company is betting that a narrower, refreshed range and a push into electric vehicles will restore profitability. For the full picture on Renault’s upcoming models, including the next-generation Espace, see Next-generation Renault Espace caught winter testing.
