Renault in Japan launches updated Lutecia

Renault has upgraded the Lutecia hatchback for the Japanese market and prices for the Intens and Zen 1.2 versions now cost 2,399,000 yen (Rs 14.25 lakh) and 2,199,000 yen (Rs 13.06 lakh) respectively. 

Both of these versions now get the 1.2-litre petrol engine in a slightly different state of tune. 118bhp is on tap with 205Nm of torque. Gear ratios on the six-speed dual clutch transmission have been modified and a start-stop function has been added to the kit. While this combination now enables the motor to increase its fuel efficiency, the torque figures have also seen a raise. No changes have been incorporated into the Lutecia’s exterior, however, the interiors of the Intens variant now comes equipped with a redesigned seat and a sporty steering wheel (from the GT variant). Dual tone colours have been splashed across the dashboard, seats and door pads to liven up the ambience. 

The Zen version is also available with a 0.9-litre engine, and this 897cc petrol mill makes 90bhp and 135Nm of torque. While the start-stop feature does not feature here, new gear ratios on the five-speed manual transmission have now made this version a lot more frugal as per Renault.