Renault Avantime (02-03) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
The Avantime represents a time when Renault was into making bold styling statements. It's a four-seat coupe based on the third-generation Renault Espace. Its tall design with imposing angles and intricate detailing found a few friends in the UK, but numbers never reached the 1500 a year originally predicted by Renault, and the model faced similar problems with demand elsewhere in Europe, with slow sales eventually sealing the fate of the Matra company that built it for Renault. Only petrol models were brought to the UK, and equipment levels are good, but the Avantime is more about making an entrance than the journey itself.
2.5 out of 5

Other Renault reviews

3.5 out of 5

Comfort

The Avantime has similar dimensions to the Espace (a seven-seater), but only needs to accommodate four adults and luggage. It does this quite well, although the high floor in the rear means rear-seat occupants sit with their knees quite high. Air conditioning is standard and all windows can be lowered and sunroof opened at the touch of a button. Engine noise is muted, although wind noise is rather noticeable at speed.

4 out of 5

Practicality

Although the Avantime only seats four, the luggage compartment is generous at 510 litres up to window height. The rear seats can also be folded to increase luggage space further. there are also various storage compartments around the cabin. As a coupe, the Avantime scores well for practicality. Although it's only a two-door car, there are double hinges in the doors, meaning access is easier when parked in public car parks, minimising the risk of damaging someone else's car.

Get a Renault Avantime valuation

How does the boot space compare?

Renault Avantime (02-03)
530 litres
435 litres
410 litres
390 litres
4 out of 5

Behind the wheel

The Avantime feels like an up-market car. The orange LED display is lifted from the third-generation Espace, but the dashboard materials are much improved and feel of a better quality. Visibility is excellent with the exception if the broad rear pillar compromising the view over the shoulder. The seats are almost like armchairs, and there is plenty of adjustment available to arrive at the ideal driving position.