Reviews - Renault

Overall Rating

Scenic has matured into an almost full-sized family MPV; and now there's the long-wheelbase seven-seater Grand Scenic, too. It's not quite as nimble to drive as before, but it's still an excellent choice.

• Good looking, roomy and practical
• Smooth ride and a comfortable cabin
• Another modern Renault that earns five safety stars

• 1.4 16v and 1.5 dCi are leisurely performers
• 2.0 petrol engine gets loud at high revs
• Steering is a bit too light and remote

Who needs an Espace? The roomy Scenic is now available as a seven-seater - Grand Scenic - as well as in the original five-seat format. Either way, it's hardly a compact MPV any more: this is a large, weighty family-sized people-carrier. Perhaps as a result, it has lost the pleasingly car-like handling qualities of its predecessor. It's extremely comfortable and well equipped, there's loads of luggage space, and it rides well, with noise well-suppressed. 1.5 and 1.9 dCi diesels are the recommended choices, with plenty of pulling power and good cruising abilities. The petrol engines struggle a bit, especially with the big Grand Scenic body. Renault offers an extensive, slightly confusing range of specifications, trims and options, so there is scope for a bespoke vehicle. Like Megane, this Scenic has complex electronics and electrics, including keyless entry/ignition, but so far it all seems to work reliably. It's likely to hold its value well.

JD Power stars: 3

NCAP: 5

Best Models: 1.6 16v, 1.9 dCi

Worst Models: 1.4 16v

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