In first-half 2006, the Renault group's world-wide sales declined by 3.2% on first-half 2005 to 1,315,351 units, reflecting contrasting levels of performance:

• In the European market, sales totaled 951,339 vehicles down 7.6%, primarily as a result of the selective commercial policy introduced in 2005 to reduce the low value sales. This policy was stepped up at the start of the year. Despite the unfavourable product cycle, Renault reported strong sales of Clio III, launched in September 2005 and voted Car of the Year 2006. With 250,955 units sold, Clio remained the best-selling car in its segment in the European market.
• Outside Europe, as announced at the beginning of the year, Renault pursued its development in first-half 2006 and reported a 10.5% increase in sales, to 364,012 units. Sales outside Europe accounted for 28% of total Renault sales worldwide, up 4 percentage points on last year. This increase was driven by the three Group brands: Renault, Dacia and Samsung .

Operating margin of 2.7% in first-half 2006

On a consistent basis, Renault reported revenues of €21,547 million (AU $35,879 million), up 0.4% on first-half 2005.

The contribution of the Automobile Division to group revenues rose 0.2% to €20,560 million (AU $34,235 million). The decline in sales on the European market was offset by continued sales development outside Europe, the start of SM3 exports by Renault Samsung Motors for Nissan, a slightly positive currency effect (mainly in South Korea and Mercosur) and other Group businesses (sales of spare parts, powertrains and built-up vehicles to partners).

On a consistent basis, the sales financing subsidiary, RCI Banque, contributed €987 million (AU $1.643 billion) to revenues, up 3.9% on first-half 2005 due to growth in insurance services and average loans outstanding.

Note: Amounts in dollars are translated for the convenience of the reader at the foreign exchange rates of 1 Euro/1.665 dollar.

Renault Clio III Renaultsport 2.0 16V arrives in Australia in early 2007.

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