Renault is reporting higher than forecast demand for the new Laguna, with some dealers reporting waiting lists for a test drive.

Since Laguna went on sale five weeks ago, more than 6,000 orders have been received, 1,000 or 20% ahead of the expected level. The Sport Tourer is accounting for 35% of orders compared with 10% for the Laguna Estate.

The car's standing in the market has been further enhanced by the recent award of a maximum five star rating in the front and side impact crash tests by Euro NCAP.