Renault Scenic (2003-) Review

On the road

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There's no getting away from the van-like quality to the Scenic's driving position, but as MPVs go it's one of the more car-like. In any case, many people regard that high perch as an asset, giving a commanding view.

It's a big car - 50mm longer than a Megane hatchback, and the Grand Scenic is 198mm longer again. But it's also a well balanced, well composed car that responds quickly and positively to all the controls, giving the driver a feeling of always being in control. The electronic parking brake, for instance, is much less intrusive than the C4 Picasso's.

The Grand Scenic's wheelbase is 51mm longer than the Scenic's, yet it feels remarkably similar on the road, and aside from parking it isn't any trickier to handle around town.

The Conquest, despite having the same driving position, feels significantly different. The extra 20mm of ride height is noticeable but not an issue, while the revised suspension gives less roll through corners and encourages a more vigorous driving style, although the steering remains much less involving than the VW Touran's or Ford C-Max's, let alone the Megane's. Although it's stiffer, the Conquest's suspension is - as with all Scenics - extremely good at soaking up the bumps.

All Scenics have a roomy, light cabin, especially with the optional glass roof, and there's a good view out through all that glass. It's also very comfortable, with good seats that are well matched not only to the upright driving position but also to the relaxed driving style encouraged by the 1.9-litre diesel engine, which is on balance the one to go for.

Don't even think about the 100bhp petrol engine or the 86bhp version of the 1.5 diesel, but having disregarded both of those you're still spoilt for choice. The 1.6 petrol and 106bhp diesel are both more capable than their outputs suggest, but if you can afford to go for one of the bigger diesels or the 2.0 petrol you'll be glad you did.

They make light work of hauling around even a heavily laden Scenic, and they're well served by the manual and automatic gearboxes. The quickest versions are the 1.9 and 2.0 diesels, with 0-62mph times of 9.6 and 9.4 seconds respectively, or slightly slower for the autos, and top speeds of 119 and 127mph, with the 2.0 petrol managing 121mph.