Renault's new Laguna, inspired by the 1995 Initiale concept car, will be on sale in the UK from February. UK executives are pressing the manufacturer to keep prices at current levels because of the fierce competition in the sector.

The 5dr hatchback and 5dr estate launched at the show are described by Renault as “two cars, two philosophies”. Renault launched the original Laguna in 1994 and, by June of this year, registrations totalled 223,230.

Thierry Dombreval, Renault senior vice president for marketing, said the hatchback's emphasis was on “expressiveness and dynamism”.

The estate was “an elegant sport tourer aimed at demanding customers who will not hesitate to class as a shooting brake”.

Patrick Le Quement, Renault design chief, said Laguna's travel comfort reflected the company's philosophy of enhancing “life on board”.

Key features for Renault were the light and warm atmosphere of the cabin and the design connection between the facia and the exterior.

Anti-lock brakes are now combined with new safety features including emergency brake assistance. A spokesman said Renault hoped Laguna would score a maximum four-star NCAP rating.