Now with local assembly in Malaysia, this family/executive sedan is priced at just RM108,888 making it very competitive against the segment favourites from Japan and Korea.
This Fluence sedan is powered by the Renault-Nissan Alliance ‘M4R’ 2.0-litre 16-valve four-cylinder petrol engine, which delivers 143bhp of power at 6000rpm and 195Nm of torque at 3750rpm. Fuel economy is rated at 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined cycle with this CVT-equipped Fluence.
The engine is quiet and only when revved it returns a note. With 5 adults on board the Fluence does not feel lethargic at all and in fact the mid-range pull is commendable for a 2-liter. The engine works well with the CVT swapping gears as we progress and when a corner is presented the Fluence takes it with little drama. The 195Nm of torque can be called on easily. The suspension has to be praised for delivering a very pliant and comfortable ride. Suspension is by MacPherson-type struts at the front with rectangular lower arms and a 22mm-diameter anti-roll bar, while the rear incorporates a programmed-deflection flexible beam. Riding fast of speed bumps there is little drama and the Fleunce does not jar its passengers.
