Romania’s small, affordable sedan is the inspiration for a Renault for select markets.
The Dacia Logan is now entering its third generation. Renault’s parent company Renault has slapped its badge on the sedan to make it more attractive in countries where an equivalent Dacia is not readily available. The new model is being revealed in Turkey this week. It replaces the Symbol that Renault used since 1999, when it was first introduced as a Clio sedan.
The new Renault Taliant is not to be confused with Thalia, which is the name used in some markets of the Symbol, or the larger and more fancier Talisman. It is essentially a rebadged Logan. You will notice that the new Renault Taliant’s headlights and taillights are more in line with the current models sporting the diamond logo. The most noticeable change is in the rear, where the C-shaped taillights extend onto trunk lid.
Renault also modified the front grille design to make it look Clio, which is further enhanced by the reshaped clusters of headlights. It is distinguished from the Dacia Logan by its two-tone alloy wheels. That’s all there is to it in terms of exterior changes. We prefer the Taliant’s look to its Romanian counterpart, but that is purely subjective.
Although interior images are not available, it is unlikely that the donor car will be used. This should be the largest model in its class, considering that not many sedans are left in the B-segment after crossovers and SUVs took over. Here is the Logan’s cabin
We don’t know much about the engine, but expect three-cylinder engines. Turbocharged and naturally aspirated engines are possible, with a maximum power output of 100 horsepower. The Renault Taliant may come with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable transmission, depending on which engine it uses. The Logan can be powered by a bi-fuel engine that accepts liquefied petroleum gasoline (LPG). This makes it the most economical powertrain and indirect replacement for the four-cylinder 1.5-liter, dCi.
The Taliant will be available in Renault Turkey by mid-2021. Spy shots show that Dacia plans to transform the Logan into a pseudorugged wagon. This could possibly include the “Stepway” suffix. It is expected to be on the market by 2022, replacing both the Logan MCV wagon & the Lodgy minivan.