Renault Paris Trip Round-Up
Posted by Zaran Tarapore on Aug 2, 2016
Exclusivity is key and exclusivity is what we were offered at Renault’s launch of the Koleos and Talisman recently held in Paris. While journos from all over the world attended the three-day event, YallaMotor was one of just two publications invited to represent the UAE.
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Ditching the scorching heat of the UAE for the breezy European weather, we hopped off our flight and made our way to one of the most exquisite hotels in town, the Molitor. Upon arriving, we were warmly welcomed by hotel staff and met several Renault executives, including Leslie Ramsoomar – Deputy Managing Director at Renault Middle East, and Yasmine Aitouche – Communications Manager for Renault Middle East.
The first day of our itinerary, saw us up nice and early in the morning to make our way to the Auberge du Jeu de Paume – a trip that was made in Renault’s passenger transporter, the Espace. The Renault Talisman, which we drove for nearly 60 kilometers as part of a convoy drive around the city, was unfortunately the diesel variant and the Initiale trim, neither of which will be making their way to the UAE.
Ending at the Mortefontaine Circuit, we were treated to a hearty lunch while admiring the Renault line-up. Although the Clio RS looked absolutely stunning in a bright yellow hue, we simply couldn’t contain our excitement to take the Koleos off-road. So gobble, gobble and ready we sat.
The off-road section, though extremely tame compared to the arid deserts of the Middle East, allowed us to gain a better understanding of the vehicle and also experience first-hand how all the electronic systems work in harmony to overcome obstacles.
Following a quick shower in the hotel, we made our way to Champs-Elysées and Renault’s “showroom” – a term we use lightly as the L'Atelier is anything but a regular showroom. Equipped with shopping spaces, play areas and a restaurant, it’s a concept that hasn’t been introduced to the UAE yet.
The second day, which was equally action-packed, began at 8 AM with ten Meissen blue Renault Koleos models embellishing the Molitor’s entrance. What followed, was a three-hour drive covering over 160 kilometers and taking us through small towns and the iconic Palace of Versailles.
Arriving at the Renault Boat where we had a scrumptious lunch, we were treated to a round trip of the Senna and had the opportunity to interview Yong Kwon, the Product Manager of the all-new Koleos, and Leslie Ramsoomar himself, for insights on the UAE market.
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Following that, we were chauffeured to Renault’s jaw-dropping Technocenter located on the outskirts of Paris. Large enough to be a city on its own, the Technocenter is a second-home to over 12,000 people and is where every Renault model is incubated.
While that marked the end of our trip, it was time to head back to the hotel, pack our bags and make our way to the airport. Once again, we’d like to thank Renault Middle East for hosting us and offering us the opportunity to get up close and personal with its newest offerings.
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