Designed to attract a clientele in need of extensive sedan quality without breaking the bank, the new Renault Fluence is fairly well equipped in terms of electronics. For a vehicle whose ticket is less than 20000 euros, Renault has made serious efforts, since the fluence has the Bluetooth standard.
Tomtom integrated option for navigation!
Halfway between the Megane and Laguna, the Fluence is offered with two engine (85hp dCi and dCi 105 hp), with two trim levels: Expression and Privilege. In both cases finishing Fluence provides an audio system as standard, but no entertainment system. Navigation is optional only version Privilege. This system Tomtom Carminat we have already featured on other models in the range. This system offers all the benefits of a TomTom portable, but built into the dashboard. No wheel to control it provides Renault with an IR remote. For the rest, we find all the usual functions of navigation. This system Tomtom is charged 490 Euros. But back to offers audio, which are standard on both versions, but with some differences.
Optional on Premium version, you can opt for Tomtom Navigator Carminat
On the Expression version, it has the classic car radio offering SAT Radio tuner RDS CD MP3 player, Bluetooth for the phone at the wheel and an auxiliary input in center console for connecting an MP3 player. Of course, this unit has a steering wheel and a remote display in the center of the dashboard, like all Renault. The sound is reproduced by a system with 6 speakers: 2 way kit up front with separate woofers and tweeters in the door panel, and a pair of coaxial in the rear.
Tomtom system is controlled with a remote IR
Privilege on the version, it has the same car, except it comes with 3D Sound System By Arkamys to offer better sound quality. A system that can be found as an option or standard on other models in the Renault range. Premium version also has a reversing radar and a parking aid. If you selected the option Tomtom navigation, the display of the car disappears from the board and is replaced by the TomTom Navigator. In this case, the screen is the latter that gives audio cues (radio, volume, ...). For a sedan whose first prize is 19,750 Euros, the audio is pretty nice, even if it lacks many modern features such as iPod control.
The radio series features a remote display in the center of the center console
To resume a little Twingo and seduce young consumers, Renault has teamed with Sony to release a limited edition Twingo Walkman! Accessible, fairly well equipped and with an environmental bonus, the Twingo Walkman is best characterized by its Sony audio equipment, which will benefit from mobile sources by car.
A car open source mobile!
This Walkman series Twingo is limited to 2500 copies, it will have to hurry if you want to acquire one. It is available with a 1.2 L 16V petrol engine or a diesel dCi 65 hp. Both benefit from an environmental bonus of 500 Euros, which makes them very attractive for small budgets. Indeed, in addition to its audio equipment that we will detail, the Twingo Walkman receives a specific finish with a shield sporting front, logo on the trunk lid and black headlamp masks.
Side equipment, this series has a limited air conditioning, electric windows and mirrors and a pair of fog lamps, a customer saving of 6.3%. Young consumers are heavy users of music dematerialized, Renault and Sony have opted for an open receiver on the mobile sources: the MEX-BT3800. The icing on the cake, the limited edition Twingo comes with a Walkman MP3 player Sony NWZE443B.
The Twingo has a radio Walkman Sony MEX-BT3800
Modern design, light blue, the Sony MEX-BT3800 has everything to seduce young consumers. As we said in the introduction, this unit is open source nomads. To connect an MP3 player, it has an auxiliary input jack and a mini-USB port on the front. This handset also has Bluetooth hands-free telephony and Bluetooth A2DP to play MP3 music contained in a cell phone, or even an Apple iTouch since it has Bluetooth. For the rest, this unit offers traditional services: RDS tuner, CD player with MP3/WMA/AAC and 4x52 watt amplifier. In short, the key is there to fully enjoy the music in the car.
A Sony MP3 player comes with the car
To enable the driver to enjoy music on a portable MP3 player, the Twingo comes with a Walkman player Sony NWZE443B. The latter provides a 4 GB memory for storing video and music. Its 2-inch color screen can also display photos. Its internal battery provides up to 30 hours, the device can store up to 1600 songs. There is also a voice recorder and FM tuner. Thus, we have a very complete player for his leisure nomads, and that we can enjoy driving through the car radio Sony. Given the equipment and its price (Twingo Walkman starts at 10,850 Euros), this limited edition is very attractive to young consumers.
Comprehensive, efficient, design, the MEX-BT3800 has everything to appeal to consumers
For some time, Renault offers its vehicles with new navigation system based on technology Carminat Tomtom. Initially, the Laguna coupe had another system installed with Bose DVD Carminat 5.1. The navigator walked carefree, but was a little outdated compared to aftermarket products. Renault has therefore also its flagship, the Laguna Coupe V6 dCi, with the new system Carminat Tomtom!
A relatively complete system!
The first system initially introduced (and always available a priori) on the Laguna coupe was interesting for its optional Bose stereo. The installation included a 5.1 system with center channel, subwoofer channel and power amp. However, the navigation system was a bit overwhelmed and could not be easily updated. Our test model is equipped with Tomtom navigator and a car stereo with 3D sound Arkamys. So we lose the multichannel sound, but in terms of navigation, we gain very much. And then this new car, available on other models in the range, has the advantage of being compatible with mobile sources as popular today.
Benefits: Supports all mobile source!
Quite conventionally, the unit is located in the middle of the center console, while the video screen is placed at the center of the dashboard. This is a laser receiver with RDS tuner, amplifier 4x20 Watts, 3D sound and Arkamys connection for mobile devices. 18 submissions FM, CD player with MP3 capability, the functions of the unit are fairly conventional. 3D sound allows Arkamys sound settings a bit more advanced than a conventional tone control (listening position, different soundscapes), but would have preferred a true DSP equalizer. As usual with Renault, it has a steering wheel joystick behind the wheel. The steering wheel also has a button for voice command. For the use of portable devices, this unit boasts Bluetooth, a USB port and an auxiliary input. These two outlets are located in the center armrest.
The radio is coupled to a GPS Tomtom
In addition to traditional USB drives (keys, hard drives), this USB port can also control an iPod. The auxiliary input is a standard mini jack to connect the headphone output of any MP3 player. The system allows Bluetooth to pair up to 5 phones: useful if you are multiple users on the car. The function is complete with a list of calls made or received and download the phonebook. Finally, the browser is a Tomtom, working exactly as the PND of the famous brand, except that it is perfectly integrated into the dash. No touch screen, the system is controlled by a knob along with a few keystrokes. This control is located on the center console behind the gear lever as usual with systems Carminat.
IPod control is compatible with the latest generation of Apple music players
The 4.8-inch screen provides high visibility and is well placed for the driver. This browser has Europe maps stored on an SD card. The latter is easily removable because it is located on the side of the screen. We can withdraw at any time to make updates via the TomTom website on a PC. From a functionality point of view, it has all the usual benefits of PND Tomtom: TMC, POI, address book, Alternative route calculation, update MapShare ... Only Live services does the latest PND are not present. The POI database is very well done, because it includes telephone numbers, thereby calling a POI as a hotel. No mapping with 3D buildings, but it is not essential and the Tomtom maps are known for precision and clarity.
TMC, POI, ease of use, it welcomes back navigation Tomtom
Finally, the audio system consists of 8 speakers. We have a kit two separate channels at the front and rear. Both woofers use of 16.5 cm. For Front, the woofers are placed at the bottom of the doors and tweeters on the dashboard. The kit is housed in the rear flanks as in most coupes.
Discover and use: an excellent browser, but using a car radio!
We have tested this system for several days, which allowed us to appreciate the qualities and defects. Let's start with ergonomics! For audio, the audio is simple and convenient to use. The main functions are managed with the steering wheel. Today, the trend is to the keys on the steering wheel spokes, but Renault prefers to remain faithful to its system stick. This is surely a matter of habit or taste, but in practice, the Renault system is by far the most practical. The order falls well under the fingers, and each key having a relief, you do not need to see the command to use. However, the GUI receiver functions are seriously friendliness, although the menus are logical. This is not just about aesthetics, some things are really not practical, especially for the MP3 media.
The steering wheel is really handy to monitor the radio while driving
Each time, the screen displays only three titles, and you have to scroll down to see the others. This is not practical, but also must be fast because the system quickly returns to map display. We would have liked to show only the playlists or radio functions, if you do not want to use the browser. Of course, under the mapping, the display shows the radio station or the song being played, but it is illogical not to disconnect the browser. Apart from the GUI not always practical and aesthetic, the unit does not pose any worries of use.
An excellent browser
Speed of research, quality of reception, the tuner meets the expectations of users of FM. This is an RDS tuner all there from classic. Same for the CD, features are conventional. IPod control has proved compatible with the latest generation iPod (4G Nano, iTouch 2G, ...). The system provides only the audio, no video or photos. Too bad, because the video screen of the car is a good size and good quality. One finds, naturally complete control playlists by artist, album, ..., like the iPod. But the interface as we said above is not practical compared to aftermarket multimedia stations. Otherwise, the reading is done without worries. The same is true for USB support.
The knob on the center console to control the GPS
Pairing a Bluetooth phone is very easy. Then just click "updated to" the directory is loaded into the receiver. However, for the same problem as MP3 media, the interface displays the contacts of three, instead of using more screen area. It's really not practical. Positive, it can initiate a call by voice command. Whether emission or reception of telephone communications quality is perfect. Let us now turn to the browser. It Tomtom, and there is a pure joy, because really more convenient than the old system Carminat DVD. Logical menus, features, performance, we find everything that you like on a mobile browser Tomtom. Route calculation is fast, the guide is accurate, we receive TMC traffic info. The POI database is well designed, navigating easily inside. The mapping is not the most beautiful he is, but it offers excellent readability. The system is controlled by a rotary knob on the center console. While we prefer touch screens, you can not say that this is not practical. Once we know the Tomtom menu, the browser is really simple and convenient to use.
The woofer has the will, but the doors starved Soundproofing
Another very significant, the system Tomtom can be regularly updated, unlike what is usually seen as original equipment. Finally, we kept listening to the end. Overall, this system offers good sound quality. The sound is rather dynamic and well stamped with proper rendering in the bass. However, do expect subwoofers, for lack of a dedicated system at low frequencies. The woofers show good will in the grave, but high-volume, sound quality degrades with vibrations. The front doors dire need of soundproofing. If listening is dynamic, the system still lacks power, there is nothing to be "busting eardrums. The sound processing Arkamys improves significantly enough to listen, but the soundstage lacks depth on music instruments loaded. For anyone who wants to listen quietly to music in everyday life, this system is very good, but music lovers will be disappointed! That said, this car has very good potential to achieve a beautiful hi-fi.
The loudspeakers are placed in the rear flanks
We can keep the original source, which is perfectly integrated, this does not make an installation with power amps. There are many OEM interfaces, for connecting speakers to the original sources. The speakers are worth changing. The front doors with a thick, we can accommodate a quality woofer. Another interesting point is that Laguna is not the Bose subwoofer, but it retained the precut slot in the metal of the rear deck. We can put a sub 20 cm operating free-air. The battery is housed in the trunk, it will greatly facilitate the installation of power amps without having to run a major power cable in the car. In addition, there is even room in the double bottom of the trunk to put an amp (see photo gallery), as the V6 dCi has no spare wheel. Finally, remember that the dash has a slot for center channel.
In conclusion:
Our Laguna coupe was equipped with a standard of this system, it will complain less imperfections. Overall, the Laguna Coupe has a good system, but for a car loan of 50,000 Euros, the car radio is not very accomplished. Nothing to say for the navigation system, it is excellent. But the radio is "not finished". It certainly offers modern features (Bluetooth, iPod, USB, ...), but the GUI is impractical and not user friendly. Damage also can not enjoy the nice screen for video, but an aftermarket manufacturer will eventually offer an OEM interface.
Laguna Coupe has a great potential to create an attractive installation
For ordinary mortals, the sound quality will be high enough in everyday life. It is not bad and even quite pleasant indeed, but music lovers will prove more demanding. Our main regret concerning the lack of power, lack of depth of soundstage and lack of soundproofing doors. But as we said earlier, this facility has a very good potential for improvement. The car allows for a hi-fi without embarking on massive changes, even without changing the aesthetics of the cockpit. However, we can not do much to improve the interface of the source, but one gets used to it. And then the highlight of this facility remains primarily browser Tomtom!
At the IAA in Frankfurt, as the Geneva Motor Show, automakers put a clear focus on electric cars. Apart from the ecological side, the vehicles had electronic systems very interesting. Fluence Renault ZE Concept uses a Smartphone as a media source!
And if the radio source was a nomad!
We have already touched on this topic by talking about the future of car audio, but the car of tomorrow will surely be a platform to screen for nomadic use a source like an iPod or a smartphone to stream music or video. Today, only the concept cars have a system of this type, but many manufacturers have such systems very mature. The ZE Concept Fluence concept car is a perfect illustration.
With its leather interior and light blue interior lighting with a softly lit, the Fluence ZE Concept invites its passengers to travel in 4 very comfortable wraparound seats. The dashboard looks modern design with an electronic counter and a touch screen displaying multimedia information and driving aids (navigation, Quickdrop stations closest to recharge the batteries of the car).
This is a Smartphone that uses multimedia source
The design of the center console is just as futuristic with its dock to accommodate the new Samsung phone. This course provides hands-free phone and listen to music content in the phone. This phone can also show videos on TV monitors in the front seatbacks. In addition to air conditioning controls, rear center armrest also includes a second Samsung phone and two remotes to control the screens of the front seats.
Screens are built into the front seatbacks for rear passengers
High-tech aerodynamic force, the ZE Concept Fluence has swapped his mirrors cons of small cameras. The images from these cameras are returned by small video screens integrated into the door panels. Finally, to reduce power consumption, this concept car is equipped with photovoltaic cells. The electronics tomorrow promises cars filled screens. In any case, a design point of view, this concept car was one of the most beautiful of Frankfurt. His style is very futuristic, but he remains sober and in the standards of today's vehicles.
After refreshing his city cars, Renault is now going to renew its flagship minivan: the Scenic. Best-selling vehicle in its segment in Europe, the new Grand Scenic provides a road manners worthy of a sedan, more space and comfort. And who says new comfort, "said new multimedia installation of course!
Browsing by OEM price!
For many years, car manufacturers offer a navigation system as standard or optional equipment on their vehicles. Although everyone onboard navigation plebiscite, not all have known success. And for good reason, in many cases the original systems are expensive, or worse completely obsolete compared to the proposals in the aftermarket. This time is long gone at Renault. Like other models in the range, the new Grand Scenic can get a navigation system Carminat Tomtom for a very reasonable price of 500 Euros.
Two offers are available: Carminat Tomtom Bluetooth Carminat DVD. The first offer is available at attractive price of 500 Euros. It then has a browser with Europe maps, POI library, speed limits, traffic alerts, traffic information, ... A 5.8-inch screen allows you to view comfortably navigation. No worries update, the user can do very simply with a SD card as a portable navigator. This browser will complement the radio.
The Grand Scenic may receive a very complete multimedia system
The most demanding requirements of embedded multimedia system may opt for Bluetooth Carminat DVD. Perfectly integrated into the dashboard with a control system on the center console and a 7 inch screen built into the dashboard, this upscale Carminat offers full functionality: navigation, 6 CD changer with MP3/WMA playback, Bluetooth for telephone and connection box Plug and Music. " Placed down the center console, it lets you plug in USB support, iPod, or any stereo auxiliary input. Besides, it also has a 12 volts for recharging a music player or mobile phone.
Bluetooth, USB, iPod, auxiliary input, the Grand Scenic provides good connectivity to mobile devices
But that's not all, the system Carminat Bluetooth DVD also includes voice recognition features for browsing and telephony. Of course, a steering wheel is also present. In addition to using sound to parking, the Grand Scenic offer a rearview camera to make the exercises safer. For those who do not wish to retain the multimedia offerings, the Grand Scenic 2009 offers two audio systems. The basic model "RadioSat Classic includes a laser receiver with MP3 auxiliary input with RCA. With a power of 80 watts, the installation includes 4 speakers. For audiophiles, the upmarket car uses the 3D Sound by Arkamys.
Rather rare on this type of vehicle, the Grand Scenic can be fitted with a reversing camera
The unit can also upscale receive hands-free Bluetooth connectivity and A2DP, and the casing Plug and Music. " Another innovation, the Grand Scenic uses a TFT customizable to provide driving information (fuel, speed, tire pressure, engine temperature, ...). This type of dashboard of the future is a first on a compact MPV. Another interesting element, each row seat has a 12 volt so that passengers can easily charge their mobile devices.
As one of the best-selling brand, the new Renault Megane has been many innovations, particularly in the areas of concern. Multimedia, hi-fi, connectivity with mobile devices, the Megane 2008 version offers a rich equipment, optional or standard depending on model.
A hi-fi system developed by Arkamys!
Renault has even very strong in electronics media. The new Megane that offers these facilities usually found on higher-end vehicles. In terms of design, engineers are also proposing to release a passenger friendly and high-tech. Subtly mixing analog and digital technologies, the block counter is absolutely beautiful. For the protection and start the new Megane remains loyal to the electronic card. But come directly to multimedia, an area which we are most interested, although the Megane 3 contains many innovations.
For navigation, the Megane 3 proposes two guiding systems Carminat. The first uses the CD and mapping in 2D, while the second uses a 3D mapping and DVDs. Both use a 7-inch screen located in the center of the dashboard, and have the Bluetooth phone.
Bluetooth, GPS, USB, iPod control, the Megane 3 can have a very complete multimedia device
Young car par excellence, do not forget Mégane 3 connectivity to mobile devices. The system has an RCA jack in the center console to plug in any player. One can also opt for the system Plug & Music, which includes an iPod control and USB port. The Plug & Music is controlled through the steering wheel controls and displays the titles of music on the dashboard. Apart from the DVD video playback, nothing is missing. But the driver does not need them, it is logical that Renault still has not equipped the Megane 3.
The radio uses a sound system developed by Arkamys
For the musicality, the Megane 3 uses for the first time in a Renault, a 3D audio system developed by Arkamys. This company expert in digital sound for ten years, has developed an embedded software to obtain three-dimensional sound quality of high level. This digital processing provides among other things, the possibility of adapting the play to the number of passengers in the vehicle. Again in the interest of sound quality, the radio tuner uses a dual antenna: a pool and a built-in rear window. In view of some pictures that have been submitted, the system seems tempting, but we will discover more in the Motor Show 2008 in Paris.
Renault unveils its first SUV called the Koleos. Equally comfortable on the asphalt road that off, this crossover is the result of the alliance of Renault and Nissan. Inviting vehicle travel, the Koleos can of course be equipped with an audio system or multimedia system, depending on version. In the field of sound, Renault been unfaithful to his regular supplier.
The Koleos has a subwoofer!
Typically, all Renault upscale we have tested or seen, were equipped with Cabasse sound system; French speaker whose reputation is second to none. But this time, turned to Renault for the Bose premium audio system.
To travel to music, the Koleos is equipped with a Bose setup 7 speakers plus a subwoofer. To the front, it has a woofer kit broke down the door and tweeter in the dashboard. Also note the presence of a central line, located above the screen information. The rear channels get a pair of coaxial. To power all the speakers, the system uses a digital amplifier.
The Bose audio system includes a center channel
Steering wheel controls, remote display in the center of the dashboard, car stereo with CD/MP3 player, 6 CD changer option, the source is a classic Renault. The unit, whose main unit is mounted below the center console has an auxiliary input to connect the headphone output of an MP3 player or iPod. The auxiliary jack is placed at the bottom of the center console, easily accessible to the driver. Damage cons, that Renault is not provided housing or a small empty bag at this point to put the player.
The control system of the browser is typically installed behind the gear lever, as on the Space
In standard or optional depending on the version, the Koleos can be equipped Carminat navigation, which we tested on the Space. The browser Carminat consists of a 7 inch screen in 16:9 format and a central unit with DVD-ROM. A European map DVD comes with the device. This system offers all the usual functions of navigation, including the TMC to navigate, taking into account the real-time traffic. The screen is not touchscreen, GPS is managed with a rotary dial, around which are distributed a few keys.
The color screen of the GPS can also display the data off road
Carminat the browser also includes a Bluetooth function for telephony. The 7-inch screen is placed at the top of the center console. It also allows to show signs of off road as the slope, the degree of tilt ... As for the video, especially for rear passengers, Renault does not indicate anything specific in his presentation of the Koleos. But this 4x4 having just come out, other options will appear probably in the future.
Renault integrates more and more advanced onboard electronics. After Espace Tech Run is dedicated to embedded video, we try the system Carminat / Cabasse Initiale version on a space. Carminat system consists of a browser, a Bluetooth interface for telephony and a hi-fi Cabasse.
Space at the service of the driver!
If Espace Tech Run was dedicated to passengers with its rear video equipment, space Carminat is designed for the driver. Move in a Espace V6 245 hp, provides a great happiness and great comfort. Thanks to its onboard electronics, the driver will be even more serene driving telephony safely with Bluetooth, efficient navigation with TMC, ... Renault was one of the first manufacturers to develop some of these vehicles with a system navigation. While this new system gives Carminat?
For this test system Carminat / Cabasse, we took the flagship of the fleet Renault, but is available on other models of space. Two things particularly interested us in this essay: compare the hi-fi high end compared to the Espace Tech Run, and of course use the browser and Bluetooth, two technologies essential nowadays for a serene driving .
The navigation screen is placed next to the counters in the center of the dashboard, rather well in the line of vision
A browser with Bluetooth for mobile phones
Browser Carminat consists of a 7 inch screen in 16:9 format, a central unit and a navigation system controls. The screen is placed next to the counters in the cap in the center of the dashboard. The dashboard is deep, it is on the move just at the base of the windshield, and rather well in the field of view without much to look away from the road.
The navigation computer is in the form of a handset 1 Din, with just a slot for the map disc. This unit is housed in the large glove box facing the front passenger. The browser uses a DVD containing the maps of 28 European countries and of course a library of interests (hotels, restaurants, service stations, ...). Strength of the system, it has the TMC to indicate the difficulties of traffic and navigate accordingly.
This console commands to control all functions of the browser and Bluetooth
To control the browser, a control desk is located at the end of center console just behind the gearshift. The location may seem odd, but in fact it falls well and consistently on hand. A joystick central also acting as rotary, used to operate the main functions. In addition, the system has voice recognition Carminat to be controlled voice.
Question features, we find all the usual options of a browser: 2 & 3D mapping, zoom on crossroads, pictograms direction, interests, different ways of routing, storing favorite places ... The Bluetooth system allows store multiple phones, and offers: memorizing his favorite numbers, the function call / hook, the composition of a number of consulting and call log. Everything is done with the rotary joystick.
Well integrated into the glove box, the system provides benefits Carminat relatively complete
To test this system Carminat us globally satisfactory. Let's start with the Bluetooth phone. After pressing the phone in the center console, just follow the onscreen instructions to pair the phone and with Carminat. Of course, this manipulation is to cause the first time.
After when Bluetooth mobile phone is activated, the system automatically takes Carminat telephony. The Carminat can store a number of telephone numbers (those that are used the most), but it can not access the phonebook and download its memory. Instead of returning the 40 most useful numbers in hand, we can send them via Bluetooth with the phone.
The Bluetooth works perfectly, but the system can download the directory
It's not as convenient as some aftermarket Bluetooth radios, but once we made these manipulations, it does not pose a problem. Consulting the call log, call a stored number, everything is done very simply with the knob. Just move a cursor on the screen and select the desired function. To answer a call, no need to reach out to the center console, the steering wheel has a button "win" and another to hang up.
Whether the driver or the caller, the call quality is very good, clear and free of echo effect. The system displays the course number of the caller, but not if the name is not part of the numbers in the Carminat. Apart from the lack of download directory and unable to see the text on the screen of the car, the Bluetooth system is efficient. In addition, we appreciate your ability to take calls from the excellent steering wheel Renault.
A hi-fi Cabasse
A hi-fi Cabasse
We now come to the browser, another strong point of the system Carminat. The menus are very well thought without recourse to the manual, it moves very quickly in and immediately find the desired function. Programming a destination or search for a center of interest are very easy with the joystick, as on any browser.
Once this step done, you only start navigation. The calculation is not as instant a browser aftermarket hard drive, but the Carminat is really fast. We particularly appreciate the TMC allows us to know the traffic situation on our destination. Tested on the outskirts of Paris, the system was very effective. In addition, mapping has symbols on site closures; really handy!
A hi-fi Cabasse
Readability, precision guidance, focusing on the intersections, the display of the mapping is first rate. On the highway, for example, the present Carminat each lane with the road sign above it (a view in 3D as in reality). It's great practice, not the wrong direction. In case of driver error, the system instantly recalculates a new route.
Verbal indications are very accurate indication of distance, too. The driver Carminat prepares well for the next maneuver. He warned well before the next shift, the reminder to put away and insisted several times before changing direction. It has tried to hide the screen and not move at a time. This is done without problem. In short, we have always done safely with high precision and ease.
Simple to use, very powerful, the browser is an excellent browser Carminat
Its weaknesses? We have not found a single large: the lack of radar mapping. When we got into the habit of that, it's a bit disturbing. On the other hand, it forces you to conduct more careful and considerate, so bad ... well, that the remote's IR receiver does not work on the browser, it would have been convenient for the passenger, but it does is a detail.
A car radio 6 CD in-dash
Another advantage of the Espace, is equipped with a hi-fi in any Cabasse. Being a prestigious brand of hi-fi home, we were curious to see what it brought over to listen to the audio system tested on the Espace Tech Run in May. But before we talk about listening and use, first introduce the system.
Cabasse The radio has a 6 CD changer with MP3 capability
The source is a combined 1 Din incorporating a 6-CD changer, RDS tuner and amplification of 4x50 Watts. All indications are on the browser screen. MP3 compatible CD player, adjustable bass / treble separate tuner RDS 18 submissions, ..., the functions are basic, but the essence is there. This handset is controlled by the course very practical Renault Steering Wheel Remote (one of the best for our taste).
Question speakers, we find the same configuration as in other area: Kit 2 separate channels at the front and rear. To the front, it has tweeter in the dashboard and woofers in the doors. At the rear, the kit is in the rear doors. This course Cabasse speakers. Another difference is that hi-fi system includes a remote IR, we mentioned above, which will be convenient for passengers.
The presence of high-end loudspeakers feels very much from the first listen
The radio works well and is simple to use, but the lack of some features lacking seriously. First, no upgradeability, you can not connect an iPod or MP3 player. We would have liked at least one auxiliary input. Second, and probably the most annoying, the screen does not display song titles and registers an MP3 disc. It receives only track numbers.
On a disk of 100 titles, this is not practical, so that was a nice color screen. Loading 6-disc is one by one, nothing special to report. In radio mode, no problem, there is a list of radios, the list of memories. All this can be used easily with the steering wheel. The reception quality is satisfactory and, breathless and pests (except the limits of the reach of radio transmitters).
The lack of MP3 disc title is really unfortunate and impractical
The car with few functions, it is easy to use. Listening is really different from the first area tested in our columns. Cabasse system shows much more musical. The sound is clearer, more airy and pretty well stamped. This is felt particularly in the midrange and treble with a more detailed and less cramped. I mean, we have a better sense of depth between instruments.
Bass is also better because more dynamic. But it lacks a bit of heat. It's well paced, but it lacks the side again captivating and inspiring a very good bass impact, warm and firm. The sound is pretty good height, and the large space between the bottom door woofers and tweeters in the bottom of the dashboard does not feel too finally listening.
The navigator and the radio can work in concert, the music will automatically shut off the ads for guiding or phone calls
However, from a perspective centering, the image is far from perfect. Overall, the Cabasse system is much more musical than Tech Run version and it comes out the same property. This is certainly not an audiophile listening, we blame a lack of finesse, and a grave too cold. But overall, the quality is really listening.
The notice of carentertainmentgeek.com
Being a Espace (the upscale version of Space), the system Carminat / Cabasse is standard. It is also standard on the European Carminat course, and optional on Alyum More Space and Privilege. In this case, the option is charged 2320 Euros, which is very reasonable for such a system, with the strength seamless integration to the vehicle. Overall, the system Carminat / Cabasse has good functionality.
The browser is really Carminat efficient, accurate and easy to use, while providing an excellent display. His only big flaw is the lack of mapping radar. Cabasse The radio is basic in its functions and not evolutionary. His biggest problems are mainly the lack of certain functions (equalizer, titration to MP3, auxiliary input, ...).
IR remote control is provided to control the audio system
The audiophile listening is not enough for our taste (slight lack of finesse, not serious enough warm), but it is really qualitative and enjoyable. For everyday use, it will not concern the happiness of the general public. Apart from the lack of download directory, Bluetooth works perfectly and is a definite plus. In short, largely positive, because only the absence of some features that makes us put some caveats to a quality result.
A new brand of multimedia enters the French market: Mobile Multimedia Systems Hype. Marketed by Mediacarcenter.com, this brand offers some radios specifically designed for French cars.
This car audio device has to fit in cars without modifying or changing a minimum. OEM car stereos, that is to say "plug and play" in the original location experiencing a big success. Among its wide range (conventional products are also available), Hype Mobile Multimedia Systems unveils multimedia unit specially designed for the Renault Megane 2 of 2005 to 2009. HW747GPS baptized, this handset provides all the multimedia features modern GPS with European maps, USB, iPod control, Bluetooth telephone ... The DVD player is compatible with DivX formats and more conventional. The touch screen provides an image of 7-inch 16:9. Also note the presence of the dual zone feature to allow passengers to enjoy video on a remote screen. Added to this is an RDS tuner, an analog TV tuner, an amplifier 4x45 Watts, line output, an A / V, an SD slot and an IR remote. In short a relatively complete and marketed at an attractive price: 699 Euros.
Since 2008, Renault had a partnership with the manufacturer of hi-fi Bose to equip the Koleos and Laguna coupe.It is now the Megane to receive this hi-fi very comprehensive.For the Paris Motor Show 2010, Renault unveils Bose limited series based on the Megane and Scenic.
This Bose system Energy will be available as an option or standard on the Mégane (sedan, coupe, estate), as well as the Scenic and Grand Scenic.For the Paris Motor Show, limited series Bose with a specific finish available on Mégane, Scénic and new Koleos Laguna.Energy to develop this system, the Bose engineers and Renault have worked closely on the acoustics of the car.The Bose Energy consists of 9 speakers and an amplifier with 8-channel digital audio signal processing.The speakers are located in the car so that every passenger enjoys listening music and dynamic.The HP kit consists of a 2 way forward, a center channel, a pair of coaxial in the rear and a subwoofer hidden in the trunk or under a front seat as the car model.So far, the hi-fi like this were very expensive, the Bose Energy will be offered as an option at a very affordable price (600 Euros) from the fall.
