Experience the Unconventional: The Avantime Returns to the Virtual Track
Gran Turismo 7's Enduring Appeal and Consistent Updates
Gran Turismo 7, launched in March 2022 across both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 platforms, continues to captivate racing enthusiasts as a leading driving simulation. Polyphony Digital consistently enhances the game with monthly content rollouts, introducing fresh races, online challenges, and, notably, new vehicles to maintain player engagement and excitement.
August Update Highlights: New Rides and Experiences
The August game update extends existing world circuits with new events and expands the 'Scapes' mode with an additional location for virtual photography. However, the most anticipated element of these updates remains the inclusion of new automobiles. This month, one particular vehicle stands out amidst a collection of powerful newcomers.
The Unexpected Star: Renault Avantime's Debut in GT7
While the update introduces impressive Chevrolet Corvette concepts, boasting immense horsepower, and a cutting-edge electric vehicle, the 2002 Renault Avantime captures attention with its distinct presence. Its appearance marks a curious yet compelling addition alongside the game's usual array of iconic performance machines.
Avantime's History within the Gran Turismo Franchise
This French minivan, renowned for its quirky design, has a notable history within the Gran Turismo series, having been featured in Gran Turismo 4, Gran Turismo PSP, Gran Turismo 5, and Gran Turismo 6. Its return to Gran Turismo 7 is fitting for a version of the game that embraces a broader spectrum of vehicles beyond just the most elite and exotic, allowing for a more eclectic garage of options.
Unpacking the Avantime's In-Game Specifications and Real-World Oddities
In Gran Turismo 7, the Renault Avantime is equipped solely with its 3.0-liter V-6 engine, featuring 24 valves, mirroring its most potent real-world configuration. Historically, it also offered four-cylinder diesel and gasoline options. The V-6 model delivered up to 207 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels, managed by either a five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission.
The Avantime: A Collector's Item Beyond Speed
With a 0-60 mph acceleration time of approximately eight seconds, the Avantime isn't designed for blistering speed on the virtual track. Its appeal in a racing simulator environment stems from its unique status as an offbeat collectible and a conversation starter, rather than its performance credentials.
The Avantime's Cult Status and Future for US Enthusiasts
The Renault Avantime's unusual design meant it didn't achieve widespread commercial success during its short production run from 2001 to 2003, with only around 8,500 units manufactured. However, this scarcity has only amplified its cult status. For American enthusiasts, the wait for importing these distinctive vehicles is nearing an end, with eligibility commencing in 2026 under the 25-year import rule. Until then, Gran Turismo 7 offers the perfect virtual substitute to experience this automotive curiosity.