Renault Vel Satis
A bold, avant-garde French flagship powered by Nissan's legendary V6.
- Power
- 241 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.0 s
- Top speed
- 146 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$10k
About the Renault Vel Satis
The Renault Vel Satis was a radical departure from traditional executive saloons, featuring a tall, 'one-box' silhouette designed to maximise interior space and comfort. Its 3.5-litre V6 engine was sourced from Nissan's VQ family, the same unit found in the 350Z, providing smooth and refined power delivery. The cabin was its greatest strength, offering armchair-like seating and high-quality materials that rivalled contemporary German luxury brands. Despite its innovation, the polarising design and high price led to poor sales, making it a rare and eccentric choice for modern collectors who value French non-conformity.
Renault Vel Satis specs
The Renault Vel Satis produces 241 bhp (180 kW) and 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.0 seconds and has a top speed of 146 mph (235 km/h).
| Make | Renault |
|---|---|
| Model | Vel Satis |
| Trim | 3.5 V6 |
| Years | 2001–2009 |
| Type | Luxury |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | France |
| Production | About 62,000 built |
| Engine | 3.5-litre V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,498 cc (3.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 241 bhp (180 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.0 s |
| Top speed | 146 mph (235 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,720 kg (3,792 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 140 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Renault Vel Satis worth?
A typical Renault Vel Satis is estimated to be worth $1,500 – $10,000 (about £1,100 – £7,500).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Renault Vel Satis rarity in CarSpot
The Renault Vel Satis is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 12 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Renault Vel Satis fun facts
- The name Vel Satis is a portmanteau of the words Velocity and Satisfaction.
- It was the second car ever to achieve a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, following the Renault Laguna II.
- Renault reportedly lost an estimated €18,710 on every Vel Satis produced during its eight-year lifespan.
