European automaker Renault is continuing to build upon its range of GCC available models and is expanding its dealership network across the region, despite first half figures that reveal mixed fortunes for the motor industry.

Renault posted first-half losses for the year, but was buoyed by the strong performance from its Romanian Dacia model.

The surprise first-quarter profits announcement from the Japanese automotive giant, Nissan, of which Renault owns a 44 per cent stake, is also seen as a vindication for its decision to increase unit production and its view that the outlook for vehicle sales as improving, with the GCC being one of the regions identified as a key growth area.

“Since Renault first established its UAE presence through Arabian Automobiles in 2005, demand has been strong especially for its Clio and Megane models,” said Mohamed Bennani, managing director of Renault GCC.

“This has encouraged us to continue with our expansion strategy, despite the current economic downturn. The opening of new Renault showrooms such as this one in Fujairah just goes to show that certain manufacturers are capable of bucking the trend,” he added.

Renault’s Fujairah showroom opened in June, in part because of demand for the company’s existing available models, but also to provide another GCC outlet for new launches that are on the horizon.

The showroom shares its floor space with Nissan and its establishment in a neighbouring emirate provides tangible evidence of a steady regional expansion campaign; the latest example being the launch of the new Renault Logan sedan.

Esper Nachef, sales and marketing manager for Arabian Automobiles’ newly opened Renault showroom in Fujairah added: “The Logan is a very attractively priced saloon, being available at less than Dh40,000 ($10,890) and in the current economic climate, customers are looking for value for money without necessarily wanting to compromise on quality.”

“People still want to stand out from the crowd and are choosing Renault because the brand offers an established reputation for quality and reliability as well as a unique European styling,” he added.

Renault is bringing over new vehicles and has a packed schedule of upcoming events, including participation in the Frankfurt Motor Show next month, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the Dubai International Motor Show.

The company will also soon be launching two new eagerly anticipated vehicles; the Laguna coupe and the Clio Phase II.

“We now have a greater range of Renault cars that are available across a wider area of the GCC and we will continue to release new models and add to our dealer network,” said Bennani. – TradeArabia News Service