RENAULT Safrane 1992-1996 Photos, engines & full specs

It was the last successful Renault executive vehicle. After that, all the other models suffered from various drawbacks. But not the Safrane. That was one of the best cars built by Renault in the '90s.

Renault used to be a premium car maker before WWII. After that, it was state-owned and that meant that they have to build vehicles imposed by the Economy minister. The most luxurious model from its lineup in the '90s was the Safrane, which was built for state officials and it replaced the aged Renault 25.

From the outside, the Safrane kept the same idea as the R25: medium-sized vehicles, with a liftgate in the back. The headlights were narrow and more expressive. A slim grille was helped for cooling by an additional grille installed in the apron. Since the car featured an additional, triangular, window behind the rear doors, the car was considered up-market for those times standards. The raked D-pillars made the greenhouse look sloped, even though the roof was flat.

Inside, Renault designers made different trim levels so the car could fit in the parking lot of a family or fit for state officials. The front seats were comfortable and wide, while the legroom for the rear occupants was more than decent. The instrument cluster was tilted forward and with a cover over it. There were two main gauges plus another three dials for oil pressure, fuel level, and coolant temperature. Few warning lights were installed under a black, translucent, panel.

For the drivetrain, Safrane offered something for everyone. From a very fuel-efficient 2.1-liter diesel to a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, it had it all. It was even fitted with an all-wheel-drive system. The car was facelifted in 1996 and received more efficient engines.