Category: Executive 
Price Range: No data available
Striking looks, airy and pleasingly detailed interior, well-equipped, more versatile than Avantime
Looks not to everyone's tastes, very average ride, handling and steering, jerky V6 automatics, poor rear headroom for fifth passenger
It won't appeal to the conservative or those looking for a dynamic driving experience, but may well suit those in search of something fresh
Bored of the usual default choices? Don't want to drive an identikit 5-Series/E-Class/A6? Renault thinks there's a niche for a completely unique, individual-looking, alternative - although as a whole, the number of total sales of cars this size is declining each year. "The decline of conventional saloons is due to the rise in non-conformist buyers", says senior designer Antony Grade. It's these non-conformists Renault is after, and the Vel Satis will certainly stand out in a crowd. Full marks to Renault, then, for trying something different and original, and not merely imitating the benchmark models in the class.
To tempt buyers out of their German saloons, the Vel Satis offers more headroom, thanks to its higher-than-average roofline, a more original interior design, an engine range including a new 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and the 3.0-litre V6 dCi diesel, a luxury-level specification and plenty in the way of gadgets and convenience features. It's a very different proposition to the dull old Safrane, and more versatile than Renault's other car for individualists, the two-door Avantime MPV/coupe. However, it's not an entirely sensible or rational purchase. This is a car to buy with your heart, because you really want one and are prepared to live with its shortcomings. Rationalists may look elsewhere.
