SEOUL, South Korea — Renault Samsung has redesigned the midsize SM5 sedan. Domestic sales will begin in late January through nearly 200 local dealers.
The 2010 SM5 eventually could be rebadged for Europe, where it may replace the Renault Laguna. The smaller Renault Samsung SM3 shares its underpinnings with the Renault Mégane and its sheet metal with the Renault Fluence, while the upcoming replacement for the flagship SM7 may be rebadged in Europe as the next-generation Renault Safrane.
The third-generation SM5 has been in development since 2006. Renault Samsung has spent nearly $350 million to bring the new car to market, where it will compete with the recently redesigned Hyundai Sonata.
Engine choices include 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas and diesel units, both of them available with a six-speed automatic transmission.
The new SM5 comes with a variety of high-tech features and options, including a body kit, a navigation system, adaptive headlamps and massaging seats.
Inside Line says: Samsung wants to add even more high-end amenities to meet increasing customer demand and help raise the brand image. — M.J. Lee, Correspondent
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kdoodoo says:
11:35 AM, 01/26/2010
It is baed upon the renault megan.
firstclass says:
08:48 AM, 12/24/2009
That may have been okay because this car looks just like an evolved form of the last 2 Saturn L300's sedans (2001-2005). Unfortunately it doesn't look as good as the Aura (imo).
zoomzoomn says:
07:45 AM, 12/24/2009
Just think. This would have been a future Saturn had the deal between Samsung and Penske come to fruition.