Gran Turismo 7, the latest installment in the iconic racing simulator series, continues to captivate fans with its realistic driving experiences. Released in March 2022 for both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, it marked the first time the franchise was available on two consoles simultaneously. Despite its presence in the market for over a year, the eagerly awaited sequel remains on the distant horizon. To maintain player engagement, Polyphony Digital, the game’s developer, consistently rolls out monthly updates featuring new races, events, and vehicles.
The latest update, released in August, introduces several exciting additions. Among them, the 2002 Renault Avantime stands out as a unique inclusion. While the update also features two 2,000-horsepower Chevrolet Corvette concepts and a lesser-known electric vehicle, the Avantime’s debut in Gran Turismo 7 is particularly noteworthy. This quirky French minivan, which nearly made it to American shores, adds a touch of eccentricity to the game’s roster of high-performance cars.
The Renault Avantime: A Unique Addition
The Renault Avantime’s inclusion in Gran Turismo 7 is not its first appearance in the series. It has been featured in Gran Turismo 4, Gran Turismo PSP, Gran Turismo 5, and Gran Turismo 6. However, it skipped the track-focused Gran Turismo Sport edition, which prioritized sportier and more exotic vehicles. Now, it returns to a version of the game that celebrates a broader range of cars, including those with more unconventional appeal.
In Gran Turismo 7, the Avantime is equipped with a 3.0-liter V-6 engine, featuring four valves per cylinder for a total of 24. Historically, the Avantime was available with both diesel and gasoline engines, but in the game, it delivers up to 207 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels through either a five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. Despite a 0-60 mph time of around eight seconds, which is not the slowest in the game, the Avantime’s charm lies in its status as a collectible oddity.
Chevrolet’s Vision for the Future
Alongside the Renault Avantime, the update introduces two Chevrolet Corvette concepts: the CX Concept and the CX.R Vision Gran Turismo Concept. These vehicles, unveiled at The Quail in Monterey, symbolize the future of Corvette design. Although unlikely to enter production, they are available for players to drive in Gran Turismo 7, offering a glimpse into Chevrolet’s innovative vision.
Additionally, the update includes the 2026 Afeela 1, the first electric vehicle from the Sony Honda Mobility joint venture. Its presence in the game, courtesy of Sony Interactive Entertainment, aims to boost awareness and excitement for the upcoming release.
The Avantime’s Cult Status
The Renault Avantime holds a special place in automotive history due to its distinctive design and limited production run. Manufactured between 2001 and 2003, only about 8,500 units were produced. While it failed to capture the mainstream market during its initial release, its rarity and unique styling have earned it a cult following. Some of these vehicles found their way to Canada, taking advantage of the 15-year import rule.
For American enthusiasts, the wait is nearly over. The current 25-year import law means that Avantimes will be eligible for importation starting in 2026. Until then, Gran Turismo 7 provides a virtual opportunity to experience this iconic vehicle.
Looking Ahead
Gran Turismo 7’s ongoing updates continue to enhance the game, offering players fresh content and diverse driving experiences. The inclusion of vehicles like the Renault Avantime underscores the game’s commitment to celebrating automotive history and innovation. As the gaming community anticipates future installments and updates, the enduring appeal of Gran Turismo remains evident.
Meanwhile, the gaming industry continues to evolve, with new racing games on the horizon. From Forza to GTA, enthusiasts can look forward to an exciting lineup of releases that promise to push the boundaries of virtual driving.
