Category: Compact MPV 
Price Range: £13,595 to £23,695
People/load-carrying versatility, compact size, keen pricing
Obsolete because new model launched 2003; DTi diesel is noisy; some reliability problems
Still a good mobility solution




You get a comfortable ride, but the Scenic can feel squashy in corners after a normal hatchback. Noise levels are low, except when you work the thrummy diesel hard. The centre rear seat is narrow, but you can slide it forward to avoid clashing shoulders with neighbours. Air-conditioning is standard on on all but the base model, and is near vital on a hot day. A high roof makes for a spacious feel, and you can vary boot space and rear legroom by sliding the three rear seats individually. These can be folded or removed, too, and the centre one can be used as a table. The boot is big for an MPV, and the strong, rigid rear shelf can be slotted in at normal height or at a lower level to match the half-folded seats, to make a long, flat load platform without having to take the seats out. There's extra storage space under the rear footwells, under the rear seats, and in various nooks and crannies. There's a remote control on the steering column, and many models have a single-slot CD player in place of a cassette. It's easy to use, and sound quality is fine.
Latest Readers' Drives About the Renault Scenic
wrote on 04 03 2008
wrote on 11 12 2007
wrote on 08 12 2007
wrote on 23 09 2006