Renault Vel Satis Hatchback (02 - 05) review

Reliability data on the Vel Satis is hard to come by for the same reason that it's hard to set its residual values - not enough were sold in the first place - but it's worth noting that Renault rarely does very well in customer satisfaction surveys.

There haven't been any Vel Satis recalls, and we've heard nothing from owners about major glitches or faults.

Many cars were leased out to fleet users, so beware of purchasing a high-miler where the service schedule has not been kept to religiously.

Make sure someone locally - be it a main dealer or independent garage - can service the car properly for you. So few were sold that it's possible not every franchised workshop will still be geared up to give them the regular maintenance they will need.