Renault Discontinues Vel Satis

French manufacturer Renault decided the end of production for the Vel Satis, a model that was officially introduced in 2001 and received its first facelift in 2005. Despite Renault's very high expectations, the Vel Satis remained a disappointing model throughout its lifespan. For instance, the parent company hoped to sell a total of 50,000 units per year but, in around 8 years of existence, it only delivered around 62,000 units.

Officially rolled out in 2002, Renault Vel Satis was especially meant to address the premium sector, replacing the Safrane, an older model discontinued in 2000. Beside the luxurious elements, the Vel Satis also came with several advanced features, including safety, comfort and performance.

Similar to other Renaults, the Vel Satis gained a five-star rating at the EuroNCAP crash tests as it boasts a wide array of safety features. In terms of engines, the 2002 Vel Satis was powered by Nissan engines ranging between 2.0-liter 16V Turbo and 3.5-liter V6, producing from 150 to 245 horsepower.

In 2005, the company rolled out the first and the only facelift of the car that brought only a few and minor improvements as compared to its predecessor.

For instance, the French parent manufacturer reworked the grille in order to follow the same design line as other Renault models of that time. In addition, new engines were also introduced, now ranging between 2.0 16V Turbo and 3.5 V6 24V, producing between 140 and 245 horsepower.

Renault has not mentioned whether it intends to fill the gap created by Vel Satis but a new model to address the same segment of buyers might be launched in the near future.