Renault Vel Satis (2002 - 2004) 3.5 V6 Initiale 5d Auto (2002/52) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I think differently. A left field choice and I do not follow the crowd. Shrewd. I do not like BMW/VW/Audi badge engineering....How can I not smile when the first owner spent £32k on the car eight years ago and I pick it up for £2k used. Buy new? Never!

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

They love it. "What is it" is the common shout followed by "quirky looks" and then "wow, its very luxurious....". Then I hit the 'loud' pedal and they realise that this is really quite a street sleeper.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes - but only the 3.5 V6 petrol with sunroof - it would be the facelifted version in LHD form from France. The engine is Japanese (Nissan 350z) and I love the engineering on their engines. I do not like diseels and have read nothing but tales of woe with BMW/AUDI/Merc diesels regarding injector issues. That said the 3.0 Vel diesel uses the Izuzu engine which is a strong unit.

What are you likely to buy next?

LHD phase II 3.5 Vel Satis V6 with sunroof. Model continued throughout europe until Dec 2009 (but RHD for UK stopped in 2005). Unbelievable value used.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,000

When did you buy the car?

June 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

It was bought via an online auction site. Seller needed a quick sale as he had lost his garage space and had been given a company car.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Nissan engine/gearbox from 350z. Unbelievable value for a fully loaded executive express. Rarity value.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

Brings a smile to your face! Goes very quickly and smoothly, relaxed cruiser or rather rapid street machine. I have added K&N filter and will be adding upgraded exhaust too. Fantastic Q car and when you plant your right foot that Nissan V6 sings. Gearbox excellent - tiptronic superb although mild driving 'shunt' when starting in morning (Park to Drive). Standard fare on all auto Vels it seems.

What's it like to park?

Easy really despite size. Great driving position, good mirrors and lots of glass plus rear sensors. Front end drops away so best always to reverse in to places. It is a big car but turning circle sublime for such a large car.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing so far. Everything works brilliantly. Air con ice cold, all electrics work. Car has only £52k on it with fsh and I have checked all recalls (Only 2) have been carried out. Engine is chain driven so that is fine. Door hanger/hinge 'clicks' slightly but I will sort that. Stereo itself is great but controls fiddly (small although remote makes things easier) and speakers terrible. Plenty of off-the-shelf upgrades available though e.g pioneer.

What's most practical about your car?

Interior cabin space and boot - cavernous. Getting in and out is easy due to it's elevated ride height.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Split seat back - electronic adjustment; Remote for stereo.