Renault Avantime (2002 - 2003) 3.0 V6 24V Privilege 3d Auto (2002/52) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

This car represents what I look for from a car and my lifestyle. It is adaptable, good fun to drive when I require it to and sufficiently powerful. I like how it is unique and that it is a talking point and shows my passion in cars.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They think it is very unusual, but that it is a great travelling experience and it's very comfortable.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I certainly would. I would prefer a manual gearbox, as the main downside for me is the automatic gearbox. The fuel economy is quite poor so would prefer a 2.0 but I am more than happy with this car.

What are you likely to buy next?

I am likely to keep this car, but buy a second car which will likely be a performance car. A Mazda RX-8 or an Alfa is on the list!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,300

When did you buy the car?

March 2013

Did you get a good deal and why?

With the car being so rare, prices can be quite independent and very susceptible to condition and how many are for sale at the time. I pounced on this car on a classifed listing as it was quite hard to find, and the other cars listed were at a higher price. History and mileage was good, and I am satisfied with how much I paid. I do not expect to lose much if I improve the condition.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I always wanted one of these, and it was only until I could find one and afford to run one that I did. The driving and ownership experience is truly unique and the features of the car satisfy my every requirement.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

For a vehicle of its size, it is quite good to drive. Body control is good for such a tall car in comparison with MPVs I have driven, and the ride while firm is quite comfortable. Performance is brisk from the V6, in a very subdued way, while never feeling fast, it can gain speed with little effort. Unfortunately the automatic gearbox is jerky when engaging drive, and can be delayed when changing gear when cold or after acceleration.

What's it like to park?

The amount of glass, the tall windows and the aid of rear parking sensors means that this car is very easy to park for a vehicle of such size. The ingenius double-hinged doors means access is good in tight spaces and the car can turn very tight radii, making tight maneuvres simple.

Have you had any problems with the car?

The car is over 10 years old, so the trim is wearing and loose in places. All the electrics work surprisingly, the sunroof could do with lubrication, and the aluminium rails have bubbled, which is a common issue.

What's most practical about your car?

The boot is very large and there is very good all round visibility which helps with manoeuvring. Front seat adjustment is good, along with headroom, but there is a shortage of legroom front and rear.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The 'Open-Air' mode is a fantastic feature. One button drops the pillarless windows front and rear and opens the large glass roof. It adds to the appeal of the car and adds an almost convertible experience.