Some 20 years after inventing the world’s first compact MPV, the Scenic, Renault has completely overhauled its offering in the segment with the fourth generation of its iconic model. The new models will be in Irish dealerships from mid-January.
Unveiled at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show and based on 2011’s R-Space concept, the all-new Scenic and Grand Scenic receive 20-inch wheels as standard across the range – unique in its segment and aiding its ground-breaking design. The five-seat all-new Scenic (pricing starts from €26,000 ) and the seven-seat Grand Scenic (entry price of €28,400 ) will be available with an 8.7-inch portrait touchscreen which is another segment-first.
They will also feature Multisense technology which enables the driver to alter the driving set-up and cabin ambience. Renault says that the new Scenic models will have ‘One-Touch Folding’ rear seats, controllable from the boot or dash via the R-Link system, which make it easier and quicker than ever to fold rear seats flat to transport larger items. It also boasts that the all-new Scenic has the biggest storage capacity and boot space in its class.
Renault says that the new model employs a number of high-end technologies and safety features drawn from the segment above, many of which are standard across the range, such automatic electronic braking system (AEBS ) with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning (LDW ), traffic sign recognition (TSR ) and automatic high/low beam.
A range of efficient petrol and diesel engines are available from launch, with emissions as low as 100g/km. The all-new Scenic range provides a choice of three diesel engines, mated to either a six-speed manual gearbox or to six- or seven-speed EDC automatic transmission, plus one petrol engine which drives through a six-speed manual gearbox.
The all-new Scenic has achieved Euro NCAP’s highest score of five stars for passive safety, which rates the structural elements and equipment that protect occupants when a collision cannot be avoided. Renault says that the new Scenic stands out as a game-changer in the realm of MPVs as a vehicle that is uncompromisingly desirable, practical, efficient, and high-tech, while also meeting the needs of families.
Later, the new Scenic will also be offered with Renault’s innovative hybrid assist engine electrification technology which will be available with the model’s core-range dCi 110 diesel unit and mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. When it becomes available, Renault Ireland will offer the hybrid assist. However, with current VRT and road tax structure offering little benefit compared to full hybrid drivetrains, they expect a low take-up of this version.
Finally, Renault’s 171 offer applies to orders taken on new Scenic and Grand Scenic, including three years free servicing, five years warranty and roadside assistance.
