Renault has insisted it is complying with environmental regulations after French prosecutors said they will investigate the company for “cheating” emissions tests.

In the wake of the Volkswagen emissions scandal, independent French experts found dangerously high levels of emissions from diesel engines of several carmakers, including Renault, the Paris prosecutor’s office said last week.

Prosecutors have ordered an investigation into “cheating on key parts (of vehicles)” and into the quality of the tests carried out.

The announcement led Renault to issue a statement: "Renault vehicles are all and have always been homologated in accordance with the laws and regulations," it said.

"They are compliant with the applicable standards. Renault complies with French and European regulations.

"Renault vehicles are not equipped with cheating software affecting anti-pollution systems."