28 May 08
Renault Scenic
4Car rating: 4 stars
Price: from £13,495
For: Well-equipped; good diesel engines; roomy and practical; good crash protection.
Against: Large and bulky; over-light steering; some reliability concerns.
One of the first so-called compact MPVs, the Renault Scenic isn't exactly compact any more - it's actually bigger these days than the first-generation Espace.
It's larger still in longer-wheelbase Grand Scenic format, with optional seven-seat layout. The Scenic II, launched 2003, is now a fully-fledged proper people-carrier, complete with flexible seating layout, good driving position and excellent crash protection: it scored five stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests.
The diesels are the best options, ranging from the ultra-economical 1.5 dCi 86 to the 2.0 dCi 150 with 106bhp and 130bhp units inbetween. The petrols are worth a look if discounted - check out independent retailers for cheap 1.4s and 1.6s.
