The Renault Vel Satis is a large family car produced by the French manufacturer Renault from 2001 to 2009. Positioned as a flagship model, the Vel Satis aimed to offer a blend of comfort, space, and distinctive styling, primarily targeting the European market. While never officially sold in the United States, it represented Renault’s attempt to compete with executive cars like the Citroën C6 and BMW 5 Series. This article focuses on the 2.2 dCi variant with an automatic transmission, produced between 2005 and 2009.
Renault Vel Satis 2.2 dCi: An Overview
The Vel Satis was a unique offering in its segment, characterized by its unconventional, somewhat polarizing design. It was intended to be a spacious and comfortable vehicle, offering a premium experience without the premium price tag of its German competitors. The 2.2 dCi engine, introduced in 2005, provided a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice within the Vel Satis range. The automatic transmission further enhanced its appeal for drivers seeking convenience.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Vel Satis 2.2 dCi is powered by a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the G9t. This engine produces 140 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine features a turbocharger and intercooler, enhancing its power output and efficiency. The power-to-weight ratio is 12.1 kg/Hp, or 82.8 Hp/tonne, while the torque-to-weight ratio is 5.3 kg/Nm, or 189.3 Nm/tonne. Power per liter is rated at 64 Hp/l. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system for optimized combustion and reduced emissions. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission. The Vel Satis 2.2 dCi achieves a maximum speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph).
Design & Features
The Vel Satis is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and spacious interior. Its design is notable for its high roofline and relatively short rear overhang, maximizing interior space. The vehicle seats five passengers comfortably. Key features of the 2.2 dCi model include an automatic transmission, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electric power steering, and independent suspension on both the front (McPherson strut) and rear (multi-link) axles. The interior was designed with a focus on comfort and ergonomics, featuring supportive seats and a well-appointed dashboard. While not a luxury vehicle in the traditional sense, the Vel Satis offered a level of refinement and equipment that was competitive within its price range. Standard tire sizes were 225/55 R17 and 245/45 R18, mounted on 17 or 18-inch wheel rims respectively. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4860 mm (191.34 in) in length, 1860 mm (73.23 in) in width, and 1577 mm (62.09 in) in height. Ground clearance is 120 mm (4.72 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Vel Satis |
| Generation | Vel Satis |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 dCi (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg, 25.4 UK mpg, 9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 226 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G9t |
| Engine displacement | 2188 cm3 (133.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2505 kg (5522.58 lbs.) |
| Max load | 815 kg (1796.77 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4860 mm (191.34 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width (with mirrors) | 2177 mm (85.71 in.) |
| Height | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2840 mm (111.81 in.) |
| Front track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Rear track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1065 mm (41.93 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 955 mm (37.6 in.) |
| Ride height | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Turning circle | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link |
| Front brakes | Disc, 324 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 300 mm |
The Renault Vel Satis, while not a commercial success in the long term, remains a distinctive and interesting vehicle. Its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and unique styling set it apart from its competitors. The 2.2 dCi engine provided a good balance of performance and economy, making it a practical choice for those seeking a large family car.
