- "A unique coupe that tests the boundaries of monoform design."
- ―In-game catch text for the car, from GT7's car collection
The Renault Avantime 3.0 V6 24V '02, known simply as Renault Avantime '02 before GT7, is a grand tourer produced by Renault. It appears in Gran Turismo 4, Gran Turismo PSP, Gran Turismo 5, Gran Turismo 6, and Gran Turismo 7 (as part of Update 1.62).
Colors[]
There are twelve total colors available for this vehicle:
- Gris Acier
- Noir Nocturne
- Noir Nacré Doré (GT7 only)
- Bleu Tibétain
- Bleu Méthyl
- Iliad Blue
- Vert Taiga
- Steppe
- Vert Scarabée
- Mars Red
- Vert Centaure (not available in GT7)
- Gris Pluton (not available in GT7)
In-game description[]
- "Monoform bodies, known for their roomy interiors, have long been the go-to for high-occupancy minivans. The Avantime turned that idea on its head, becoming the first to pair a spacious cabin with the sleekness of a low-occupancy coupe. Derived from the 1997 third-gen Espace, the Avantime broke new ground with its bold two-door layout and lightweight FRP body. This resulted in an air, elegant cabin unlike anything else. With no B-pillar, the side windows stretch to rear. Open the expansive sunroof, and it nearly feels like a full convertible! Penned by Renault's legendary designer Patrick Le Quément, this unique coupe redefined what was possible with a monoform body."
- ―In-game description of the car, from GT7's Brand Central
- "Looking for a coupe with real character? If so, then have I got a perfect choice for you! Built on the third-gen Renault Espace platform, the Avantime is a unique-looking coupe that embraces minivan elements. What truly sets it apart is the remarkable sense of freedom it delivers, notably from its ingeniously designed rear seating. The body, crafted from lightweight FRP, was built by Matra, a name once synonymous with Formula 1 competition. While it came with a range of engine options, this model packs a 3.0-liter V-6, whose torque contributed to good handling. A true rarity only 8,500 units rolled off the line during its brief two-year production run that began in 2001!"
- ―In-game description of the car, from GT7's Brand Central
Car Index (GT7)[]
The Renault Avantime brought an unconventional twist to the widely praised Renault Espace, reimagining the European minivan. Conceived as a bold design study by Renault's chief designer, Patrick Le Quement, the Avantime made its debut at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show. When Renault confirmed plans to launch it as a production model in 2001, the news was met with widespread disbelief.
At first glance, the Avantime resembled a minivan—but with a twist: it had only two doors. Inside, it featured a conventional layout with two rows of seats, accommodating up to five passengers in comfort. Renault's reasoning for this unorthodox design was that it was intended to be a niche coupe.
This intent became clear the moment you stepped inside the Avantime. The luxury of enjoying the expansive cabin of a minivan, with only a handful of passengers, truly defined it as a niche creation. From the rear seats, the visibility was exceptional. With all the side windows lowered and the expansive sunroof fully open, the sense of openness was remarkable. It offered a feeling of freedom and airiness not unlike that of a convertible.
In its home market, the Avantime was also offered with turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. But for Japan, it possessed a 3.0-liter DOHC 24-valve V-6, producing 204.1 HP at 6000 rpm and 206.1 ft-lb of torque at 3750 rpm. True to its character, the Avantime delivered a composed and confident ride. The generous torque and trademark Renault smoothness came together in perfect harmony. The driving quality was so refined, it surpassed that of many traditional sedans and coupes.
The Avantime embodied Renault's unique spirit that proved the monoform silhouette wasn't the sole domain of minivans.
Café Conversations (GT7)[]
Chris[]
Renault is famous for its minivans, especially the Espace. Well, this Avantime may look like a minivan, but was really built as a two-door coupe. A truly unique car, if I may say so. It was designed by none other than Patrick le Quément, chief designer at Renault from the 1980s to the 2000s. Released in 2001, it had a remarkably brief production run of two short years. A shame, really, as it's a car overflowing with character, inside and out. Indeed, I feel there's nothing quite like it. No wonder it continues to attract fans all over the world. It's another shining achievement in Renault's long history.
Acquisition[]
| Game | Purchase location | Credits | Other methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gran Turismo 4 | Renault Dealership | 52,570 | Special color (Jaune): Win the Mégane Cup |
| Gran Turismo PSP | Renault Dealership | 52,570 | --- |
| Gran Turismo 5 | Used Car Dealership (Lv. 0+) | 46,442 | --- |
| Gran Turismo 6 | Renault Dealership | 52,570 | --- |
| Gran Turismo 7 (  v1.62+) |
Renault Brand Central Used Car Dealership |
50,000 39,000 |
--- |
Customization[]
Engine Swaps (GT7)[]
| Engine | Price | Version | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| GTI-VGT-Gr.3 | 325,000 | v1.62 | Racing engine swap; increases fuel economy. |
Trivia[]
- Although not explicitly stated until GT7, this car has always been the top-of-the-line "Privilege" 3.0 V6 24V trim.
- In GT7, its roof is treated as Other in the Livery Editor, which is separated from its main body.
- In GT7, the parts in GT Auto reference the Renault Espace F1 '95.
- Coincidentally, that car had soon appeared in the Spec III update.
- Installing a widebody on the car in GT7 will not change the listed width measurement.
- The same issue also occurs with the Citroën BX 19 TRS '87.
Pictures[]
.jpg "Renault AVANTIME '02 (Special Color).jpg (197 KB)")
