Description
Renault Avantime V6 | 2002
Highlights:
– Only 8,557 built
– 3.0-liter V6 engine
– Manual 6-speed transmission
The seller offers for sale this 2002 Renault Avantime, a limited-production grand tourer that defied automotive convention. Designed by Renault and built by Matra, the Avantime was a bold attempt to fuse the style of a coupé with the space and practicality of an MPV. It is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with a rare manual 6-speed gearbox, offering a combination of smooth performance and driver engagement. With a total production run of just 8,557 units, this model has already achieved collector status.
This Avantime stands out for its striking design elements, including a panoramic glass roof, pillarless body construction, and frameless windows, creating a bright and airy cabin. The two large doors are designed with a unique hinge system that allows wide access even in narrow parking spaces. Despite its size, the Avantime maintains a coupé-like silhouette, aided by its sloping roofline and strong shoulder line. This particular example is finished in a dark blue metallic paint. The exterior shows signs of wear, consistent with age and storage, and would benefit from cosmetic detailing or paint correction.
The interior features black leather seating combined with a beige dashboard, presenting a high-contrast and luxurious appearance. The materials and design reflect early 2000s Renault styling, with an emphasis on comfort and visual drama. While the upholstery and trim show signs of use, the layout remains intact. The car has been standing for some time and may require general servicing to bring it back to optimal running condition.
Although not currently in active use, the mechanical foundation of this Avantime remains a highlight. The 3.0-liter V6 engine was developed in partnership with PSA and Volvo, offering refined power delivery and a distinctive exhaust note. Mated to a 6-speed manual transmission—an uncommon feature for a car in this segment—it provides a more involved driving experience than the more common automatic variants. Before regular road use, the car will likely require checks to brakes, fluids, and electronic systems due to its inactive period.
The Renault Avantime debuted in 2001 as a design-led flagship meant to redefine the concept of luxury travel. Sharing its underpinnings with the Espace, the Avantime aimed to offer the interior space of a minivan with the exclusivity of a two-door coupé. It featured avant-garde styling, generous visibility, and advanced materials including an aluminum roof and composite panels. However, its daring concept struggled in the marketplace, and low sales prompted production to end in 2003.
In the years since, the Avantime has developed a cult following. Its limited production, distinctive styling, and unusual layout have made it a collector’s item among enthusiasts of French design and automotive oddities. It’s widely seen as a car that arrived before its time—too radical for mainstream buyers, but admired in retrospect for its vision and bravery. The Avantime also stands as the final vehicle produced by Matra, adding historical importance to its already unique status.
Today, the Avantime is increasingly recognized as a future classic. For those seeking an unconventional, design-focused grand tourer with rarity on its side, this 2002 Renault Avantime V6 presents an intriguing opportunity. It offers a compelling blend of comfort, bold styling, and manual V6 performance in a form unlikely to be replicated again.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
3. Good: Repairs to the bodywork and paint may be needed, possibly requiring part replacements.
Condition of the Interior
3. Good: Shows typical wear; may require some repairs or part replacements.
Technical Condition
3. Good: Generally reliable, but may need some maintenance or repairs.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in North Brabant province, the Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a French registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
