RENAULT unveiled a concept car at the Geneva Show which it says provides a strong hint towards a range-topping vehicle to be launched next year as a replacement for the ailing Safrane. The concept Avantime is a spacious grand tourer coupe powered by a 250bhp 3.0-litre V6 engine with six-speed manual transmission.

Specification includes pull-out reading lights for rear seat passengers, and a DVD system for both navigation and a separate system for those in the back if they want to watch movies.

In addition it features the innovative central locking system first seen on the Vel Satis concept car. This is a 'hands-free card' which emits a signal that is permanently being sought by the car, automatically unlocks the doors and disengages the immobiliser as the driver approaches the vehicle. The driver then inserts the card into the dashboard and the car can then be started.