Once a favourite of sensible French families on relatively comfortable salaries, the original Renault Safrane was the most expensive and luxurious Renault that was available from 1992 to 2000.
After that, the Safrane production line lay dormant until 2008 when it was decided that a new model, based directly on a Renault Samsung SM5 sedan, should be re-introduced. Since then it's been quietly easing its way back into the affections of middle-management types, especially those in the Gulf, who can't afford a Lexus LS but want something with a bit more kudos than a Camry.
The Safrane, then, is never going to be the vehicle of choice for twenty-something urban creatives. You're more likely to hear Fleetwood Mac blaring out of the windows than Kanye West.
With its simple elegance, subtle chassis grooves and a bonnet longer than a thirsty dog's tongue, it's a car that shouts out ‘mid-level executive' more than a nylon laptop bag. If Nicholas Sarkozy was the salesman of a small pharmaceutical company rather than the president of France, he would probably drive one of these. At almost 4.9 metres long it's bigger than his ego.
But let's not disparage the Safrane. Once I learned how to switch off the seat massage feature - which gave my spine a therapeutic pummelling for several kilometres - I quickly found myself enjoying the drive. Its V6 engine is quieter than a microwave oven, it has fine steering and handling qualities and thrives on the smooth, straight roads of the UAE where it overtakes most other cars with effortless ease.
The Carminat TomTom navigation system comes with an intuitive joystick, while the reverse parking camera displays obstacles on the colour screen - not as good as a rear-view camera but better than nothing.
A neat feature is the hands-free card, which enables you to open and close the doors as well as start the engine, without it ever leaving your pocket.
Look inside and you'll find that Renault has made a car that makes a bid for high-end comfort - and it doesn't fall far short. While its technology might be lacking the Teutonic finesse found in, for example, an Audi or a BMW, the décor - an overdose of beige soft leather - provides a reassuring cosiness compounded by the crystal clarity of a Bose sound system. Seat controls and air-conditioning can be finely tuned, while only a sumo wrestler would complain of claustrophobia. (And said wrestler's monthly food shopping could fit in the cavernous boot. It's like staring into the gaping maw of a humpback whale.)
The panoramic sunroof and heat-reflecting windshield are also great for those long drives in the cooler months when the sun isn't ferociously beating down on your scalp.
Like Thierry Henry and a freshly cooked baguettes there's nothing really to dislike about the Safrane. It's heavy on safety features, provides ample comfort and a pleasurable driving experience - all this in a subtly handsome chassis.
And look at that starting price. It's an absolute steal.
Specs & ratings
- Engine: 3.5LE
- Horsepower: 237 hp@6000 rpm
- Transmission: six-speed automatic
- Drive type: front-wheel drive
- Wheels: 225/45 R18 alloys
- Cost: From Dh63,500
