Renault Talisman TCE190: A restrained sense of French flair

By Ghaith Madadha - Aug 14,2023 - Last updated at Aug 14,2023

Photos courtesy of Renault

Renault’s answer to the big near-luxury front-wheel-drive saloon with greater appeal in ‘world’ markets, the Talisman is a stylish and smooth contender that walks a fine line between the attainable and the premium.

A far cry from French car makers’ sometimes more unique, innovative and even quirky big saloons of yesteryears, the Talisman is instead a more conservatively mainstream and “safe pair of hands” effort developed in collaboration with Renault’s South Korean subsidiary, and also marketed as the Renault Samsung SM6.

Subtle style

A big, comfortable and quick combustion engine saloon, the Talisman was first launched in 2015 and mildly refreshed in 2020 for certain markets. The Talisman may have ceased production for certain markets as of this year, but nevertheless seems to remain listed and presumably available in others — including Jordan — as a last chance opportunity for a more individualistic and modern petrol powered premium saloon, before it is might be succeeded by some high riding crossover or electrified vehicle, if at all.

A long, low and sleek design with flowing lines, rakishly arcing roofline and high waistline, the Talisman is very much a product of its era and rather conservatively sporty design this is one of smooth understatement and flowingly discrete style rather than bland obscurity. With long snouty bonnet, bold grille and slim heavily browed headlights, the Talisman cuts a assertive stance that is reflected with subtly prominent sills, short and pert rear deck and a dramatic, and well grounded rear fascia treatment.

Smooth sprinter

Offered with a variety of compact, comparatively powerful and fuel efficient petrol and diesel engines for various markets, the top spec Middle East Talisman TCE190 version is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-litre direct injection four-cylinder engine producing 188BHP at 5,750rpm and 192lb/ft torque at 2,500rpm. Driving the front wheels through a slick, smooth and quick shifting 7-speed automated dual-clutch gearbox, the Talisman TCE190 carries its 1,444kg mass through the 0-100km/h sprint in just 7.7-seconds and onto a 225km/h top speed.

Quick spooling and responsive from standstill and at lower engine speeds for a small turbocharged engine mated to a big car, the Talisman’s engine is smooth and willing right to its peak power and rev limit. It is at its best in its muscular mid-range torque sweet spot. Flexible throughout its mid-range plateau, the Talisman’s on-the-move versatility allows for 6.6-second 80-120km/h acceleration and confident motorway overtaking. The Talisman TCE190 meanwhile returns frugally low claimed 5.88l/100km combined cycle fuel efficiency.

Confident comfort

A smooth and sophisticated drive on motorways, the Talisman TCE190 is a natural, refined and stable long distance cruiser, with low CD0.27 aerodynamics helping to keep it quiet and efficient. Underneath it rides on front MacPherson struts as expected in its segment, and more surprisingly, a torsion beam set-up at the rear, more common to smaller and less luxurious cars. Nevertheless, the Talisman avails itself well in terms of driving dynamics — for its segment — as well as ride comfort.

With quick and responsive 2.8-turn steering and confident front grip, the Talisman is tidy and eager turning in for such a long and large saloon, but naturally, cannot compare with the agility and nimbleness, never mind the intuitive feel of some of its smaller and sportier Renault sister models, such as the outgoing Megane. But regardless, the Talisman well controls cornering body lean corners, and provides reassuring rear grip. Braking is meanwhile similarly confident, with decent pedal feel and fade resilience.

Classy cabin

A comfortable ride that is for the most part forgiving even with low profile 225/45R18 tyres, the Talisman dispatches most textural imperfections and bumps in its stride. It can, however, feel slightly firm over more jagged and sudden potholes and bumps. Settled in its ride quality, the Talisman recovers well from sharp crests and dips, especially compared to similarly sized Korean competitors. Refined inside, its driving position is meanwhile comfortable, well adjustable and supportive for its class, and with good front sightlines.

With a classy cabin ambiance and design, the Talisman incorporates mostly good material and textures with a sophisticated and visually spacious horizontally oriented design. Uncluttered and intuitively user-friendly, controls and instrumentation include a vertically aligned infotainment screen and big tachometer behind its sporty contoured steering wheel. Spacious in front, its rear seats are comfortable and fairly sized, with decent, if not outright generous rear headroom for taller occupants. Well-equipped with infotainment, convenience and safety features, the Talisman’s big boot meanwhile accommodates 515-litres luggage volume.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS