Family SUVs have become essential for modern households, offering the perfect blend of space, comfort, and versatility.
The Renault Scenic E-Tech fits seamlessly into this category, designed to meet the diverse needs of families.
Our experts put the Scenic to the test, evaluating its performance, features, and practicality to see how it stands out in the competitive electric SUV market.
The Final Verdict
The Scenic is a well rounded family electric SUV. It's hard to ignore with the attractive price range and amazing features provided.
It has to be on your short list.
The spacious and comfortable interior, impressive range, and competitive pricing makes it all attractive in the compact SUV segment. The FWD setup, thoughtful design and advanced features and the Solarbay roof all adds to its appeal.
It does not lead in every category but if you are looking for a vehicle that is reliable, efficient, family-friendly and without a high price tag, then this car is a compelling choice for your needs.
What is in the Review?
Retail Price: £37,495.00
Savings: £2,592.00
Motorfinity Price: £34,903.00
A Quick Overview
260 miles - 379 miles
Electric Range
100 mph
Top Speed
7.9 - 8.6 Seconds
Acceleration 0 - 62
50
kWh
Charge added in 30 minutes
Solarbay glass roof with LCD-controlled opacity
Special Feature
About the Renault Scenic E-Tech
The Renault Scenic E-Tech 2024 is a new electric family car. It can drive up to 379 miles on one charge and has a roomy interior.
The Scenic started in 1996 as a small people carrier. It was so good it won Car of the Year in 1997. Other car makers copied its idea.
Renault has made five versions of the Scenic. The latest one is all-electric and looks more like an SUV.
This review checks if the new Scenic 2024 is as good as old generations.
The 2024 European Car of the Year
The new Scenic won Car of the Year 2024 in Europe. It's a great all-round family car standing out from the rest.
People like it because:
- Long-range driving: It can go up to 379 miles on one charge, which is great for long trips.
- Spacious interior: There's lots of room for passengers and luggage, making it comfy for everyone.
- Modern design: It looks stylish and up-to-date, both inside and out.
- Safety features: It has new tech to keep families safe on the road.
- Eco-friendly: Being all-electric, it doesn't pollute the air like petrol cars.
- Smooth ride: It's comfortable to drive and ride in, even on bumpy roads.
The Scenic E-Tech stands out because it offers all these things in one car. This makes it a smart choice for families who want a practical, modern, and eco-friendly vehicle.
Similarities With the Megane E Tech
The vehicle shares many similarities with the Megane E-Tech. Both are built on the same CMF-EV platform and utilise much of the same underlying technology.
There are key differences that set these vehicles apart. The Scenic is larger and designed as a family SUV, while the Megane is a more compact hatchback. Additionally, the Scenic offers more interior space and boot capacity, aligning with its role as a family vehicle.
The Scenic is also positioned as a more premium, family-oriented option, whereas the Megane targets a broader market.
The Range
The Real World Efficiency vs the Official Range
The official range of the Megane E-Tech is 379 miles according to WLTP standards. The actual range can vary depending on factors such as driving habits, conditions (motorway versus city driving), climate, and the use of Eco Modes.
Our experts have tested the vehicle in various conditions and were impressed with its overall range. The difference between real-world performance and official figures is minimal. In real-world mixed driving conditions, the vehicle typically achieves between 250 and 300 miles, with an efficiency of around 15-17 kWh/100km.
Range Across the Trims
The range mentioned earlier applies to the top-spec model. The base variant, with a 60 kWh battery, has a WLTP range of 260 miles. This difference is due to the battery size.
Interestingly, the middle variant offers the highest WLTP range of 379 miles. The top-spec model has slightly less range because its higher weight and larger alloy wheels affect aerodynamics and overall efficiency.
The Charging Capability
The vehicle supports DC fast charging, offering solid performance that meets the needs of most users. Its charging capability is competitive for its class.
The long range version supports 150kW DC fast charging, allowing for a 10-80% charge in just 40 minutes. This feature helps alleviate range anxiety, especially for families.
The ability to accept 22kW AC charging is another notable advantage of the Renault Scenic E-Tech. It provides more flexibility and reduces charging times in various situations.
A heat pump, standard across all trims, helps maintain efficiency in colder weather, addressing common concerns for EV owners. Renault has clearly prioritised reducing range anxiety with this vehicle.
Charging and Range Comparison With the Competitors
The Scenic E-Tech is a class leader in range, with both its official and real-life figures notably higher than many competitors, particularly in the long-range version.
It outperforms rivals like the Tesla Model 7, Hyundai Ioniq, Kia EV6, and Skoda Enyaq in range, despite being priced lower than some of these models.
In terms of charging, the Scenic also excels. Its 150kW DC charger is faster than the Skoda Enyaq's, and its 22kW AC charging capability is superior to several competitors.
Home Charging
The Scenic E-Tech's home charging capabilities are ideal for typical usage, offering convenient overnight charging. Its ability to accept higher AC charging rates also future-proofs the vehicle, should owners upgrade their home charging setup.
Exterior - is it Impressive Enough?
Overall, the size of the Scenic E-Tech is competitive within the compact to mid-size electric SUV segment.
It is larger than the Kia Niro EV and slightly smaller than the Kia EV6, highlighting its well-balanced positioning.
The vehicle offers ample space, ensuring it remains roomy without any compromise on interior comfort.
The Transformation From an MPV
The transformation from an original MPV to a modern family electric SUV is significant. The Renault Scenic 2024 has evolved from a boxy, utilitarian design to a chic, contemporary SUV.
The design philosophy has also shifted. Unlike the MPV, which prioritised maximising interior space, the current SUV design strikes a balance between style and practicality.
Comparison with the Current SUVs?
The vehicle is undoubtedly attractive, often seen as the handsome elder sibling of the Megane E-Tech.
The designers have focused on aerodynamics, with flush door handles and distinctive wheel designs standing out as key features.
The front end showcases a bold and unique nose, setting it apart from rivals. Its eye-catching contours and contemporary styling make a strong first impression.
The design is modern and easily recognisable, distinct enough to stand out among close competitors.
If you're on the fence about this SUV, rest assured it offers a unique design that differentiates it well from European competitors, including the Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Ioniq 5.
The Headlights of the Vehicle
The Scenic comes with LED headlights as standard. Higher trims, such as the Horizon trim and above, also feature adaptive headlights, enhancing its modern appearance and contributing to its distinctive look.
Our experts tested the headlights in various scenarios and found them to be of high quality and very effective in different driving conditions.
The Difference in Exterior Across Trims
The Renault Scenic 2024 is available in three trim levels, each with distinct features that affect their appearance.
The main difference lies in the alloy wheels: the Techno model has 19-inch alloy wheels, the Esprit variant features 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, and the top-level Iconic variant comes with 20-inch Oracle diamond-cut alloy wheels.
Which trim looks best is a matter of personal preference. Based on our evaluation, if you prefer a clean and understated design, the entry-level Techno trim is a good choice. The Esprit Alpine trim leans towards a performance-inspired aesthetic with sportier styling elements. The Iconic trim offers a blend of performance-inspired design with a more refined, feature-rich experience.
How Good is the Roof?
The top variant of the vehicle includes a Solarbay roof, a high-quality, innovative feature that adds significant value to the top-trim Scenic. This roof combines aesthetic appeal with practical functionality, enhancing the overall driving and passenger experience.
It is a standout feature, often compared to those found in luxury vehicles like Rolls-Royce. This unique feature sets the Scenic apart from all its competitors.
The Interior Design Features - Best in the Class?
The Digital Driver Display - Is it One of the Best That we Have Seen?
The 12.3-inch digital driver display in the Renault Scenic is one of the best in its class. It's cohesive, responsive, and intelligent, with features like predicting when to heat or cool the battery en route to a charger—one of our favourite aspects.
A key factor in assessing the effectiveness of a digital driver display in an electric vehicle is how well it's integrated with the vehicle's functions. In the Renault Scenic, this integration is excellent, particularly in range prediction and battery management.
Our experts have tested this display in various scenarios and found it user-friendly and not at all overwhelming. Built on the Google ecosystem, it’s intuitive and easy to use. Even during charging, the system ensures you stay entertained.
Compared to competitors like the Volkswagen ID models, the Scenic's display is on par, despite both using the Google interface. However, the Scenic offers superior integration. While Tesla uses its proprietary system, making direct comparisons difficult, the Scenic’s display holds its own in terms of integration, functionality, and features.
The Google Based Operating System
The Scenic's Google-based operating system is user-friendly and responsive. It seamlessly integrates Google Maps and Assistant, enhancing the driving experience.
The system is quick and feature-packed, with crisp graphics on the large touchscreen. Voice control works well, making it easy to access various functions while driving.
Overall, it's a strong point for the Scenic, offering a tech-savvy infotainment experience that stands out in its class.
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Does it Maintain the Traditional Touch?
The Scenic's digital driver display modernises the dashboard whilst keeping a traditional feel. Its 12.3-inch screen offers a familiar layout, like conventional analogue clusters.
Drivers can choose classic dial designs, blending old and new. Steering wheel buttons provide tactile control over the display. This mix of digital tech and familiar design helps even tech-shy drivers adapt easily. The Scenic's cockpit is thus both innovative and accessible.
The Overall Interior
The interior of the Renault Scenic 2024 strikes a perfect balance between elegance and sustainability. It’s simple yet smart.
While it doesn't reach the luxury levels of premium SUVs, it offers high-quality materials and design for its class. The use of recycled materials that still look and feel premium is commendable.
For those who appreciate traditional luxury touches, the wood trim in higher trim levels provides an upscale experience.
Attention to detail is also notable, with features like carpeted door bins enhancing the perception of quality. The dual-screen setup further contributes to the modern, premium feel of the interior.
What Interior Trims Available?
The Renault Scenic's interior varies by trim level. All models include climate control, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats with lumbar support, and a 12-inch digital driver display.
The mid-level Esprit Alpine adds premium dashboard materials and a sportier design with electric blue accents.
The top-level variant offers luxury touches like real wood trim, a Harman Kardon sound system, full electric seat adjustment, and a driver's seat massage function, blending classiness with high-end performance.
The Front and Rear Space - The Best in its Class?
The Renault Scenic offers generous interior space for its class. The front seats comfortably accommodate tall drivers and passengers, with plenty of adjustment options for both the steering wheel and seat. While the windscreen is narrow, which might affect the perception of space, visibility remains good.
The spaciousness extends to the rear, easily accommodating four six-footers with a flat floor that improves foot space.
Compared to competitors, the Scenic is one of the roomiest in its class. It offers more rear legroom than the Tesla Model 3 and Kia Niro, and both headroom and legroom surpass those in the Kia EV6.
Driving and Performance
The Front Wheel Drive Experience
One key feature of the Renault Scenic is its front-wheel drive (FWD) setup, unlike many competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E, which are rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
FWD enhances the vehicle’s efficiency, contributing to its impressive range. This choice is strategic, as the previous MPV generation also used FWD, making the Scenic feel familiar to drive.
In the UK, FWD provides good traction in adverse weather conditions, such as light snow or wet roads. FWD is generally less effective in handling compared to RWD or AWD, but this varies based on driving preferences.
Comfortable or Agile?
The Renault Scenic 2024 offers excellent ride quality, handling big bumps and potholes with ease while remaining comfortable over large undulations on country roads. Low noise levels, ample interior space, and luxurious seating all contribute to its reputation as a comfortable vehicle.
Despite its focus on comfort, the Scenic doesn't compromise on agility. For a front-wheel drive vehicle, it handles well and is relatively lightweight by electric car standards.
Overall, the Scenic prioritises everyday comfort while still offering sufficient agility for an enjoyable driving experience.
Driving Modes and Their Impact
The vehicle offers five predefined driving modes: Neutral, Sport, Comfort, Perso, and Eco.
This straightforward approach to driving modes is designed for simplicity, making it appealing if you prefer an uncomplicated setup.
In Sport mode, the enhanced steering weight provides a subtle change in driving feel—not revolutionary, but adequate for a comfort-oriented FWD family SUV.
Additionally, the four-level regenerative braking system, adjustable via steering wheel paddles, offers useful flexibility for different driving conditions.
The Overall Driving Experience
The Scenic delivers a driving experience focused on comfort, practicality, and efficiency rather than sportiness. It strikes a perfect balance between ease of driving in everyday situations and providing enough responsiveness to be engaging when needed.
Overall, it's a well-rounded blend of comfort, adequate performance, and refinement, appealing to drivers who prioritise a relaxed, family-friendly electric SUV experience.
Acceleration
Space and Practicality
The vehicle is spacious throughout, excelling in both space and practicality. It's one of the roomiest options in the compact SUV segment. The combination of ample interior space, flexible cargo options, and thoughtful practical features makes it ideal for family use.
The Boot and the Cargo Space?
The vehicle offers competitive cargo capacity, with 545 litres of boot space with the seats up, expanding to 1,670 litres with the seats folded. This is generous for a compact SUV and sufficient for most family needs.
It also provides more boot space than many competitors, including the Kia EV6.
How Good is the Cabin Storage?
Catering to family needs, the vehicle offers ample storage in the front. The door bins are reasonably sized, and the large centre console with a sliding armrest and storage underneath adds to the spaciousness.
Overall, the cabin storage is well thought out and generous, making it practical for various needs.
Is it Best When it Comes to Practicality in its Class?
The Scenic excels in passenger comfort and clever storage solutions, potentially leading its class in these areas.
While it doesn't have the maximum cargo capacity, falling slightly behind a few competitors, it remains highly practical.
Overall, the Scenic offers one of the most well-rounded and practical packages in its class, particularly in areas that matter most for daily family use, even if it doesn't lead in every statistical category.
The Resale and Depreciation Value
How Strong is the Residual Value?
Renault has a strong reputation for reliability, and the Scenic, designed to meet diverse family needs, is expected to retain its value more effectively than models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, or Skoda Enyaq.
The warranty is solid, with Renault offering a three-year warranty—unlimited mileage for the first 24 months and a cap of 100,000 miles thereafter. The main drive battery is covered for eight years.
One factor that helps maintain its value is its impressive range, particularly the Long Range version, which offers up to 379 miles officially.
How Competitive is the Overall Price?
The base model with a 60kWh battery is priced similarly to the Skoda Enyaq 50 but is significantly cheaper than the Hyundai Ioniq 5 Standard Range, Kia EV6 Air, and Tesla Model Y RWD. Even with the larger 87kWh battery in the entry-level Techno trim, the Scenic remains more affordable than many rivals.
This competitive pricing, coupled with strong expected residual value, makes the Scenic an attractive option in the electric SUV market from a financial perspective.
The Insurance Cost
The Renault Scenic E-Tech falls into insurance groups ranging from 23E to 32E. When compared to competitors, the Scenic offers more affordable options: Skoda Enyaq (22 to 33), Hyundai Ioniq 5 (29 to 41), and Tesla Model Y (46 to 49).
Although the Scenic's starting point is slightly higher than the Skoda Enyaq, it maintains a consistent and affordable range across its variants, especially when compared to more premium electric SUVs like the Tesla Model Y.
Price
The Renault Scenic E-Tech starts at £37,495 for the base model, with the top-tier variant priced at £45,945. However, eligible customers through Motorfinity can enjoy significant savings, reducing the prices to £34,903 for the base model and £42,343 for the high-end variant. These discounts represent savings of £2,592 and £3,602, respectively.
Keep in mind that prices in the electric vehicle market fluctuate frequently, so these figures are accurate as of the time of this review. It's always wise to check for the most current offers.Motorfinity and the Renault Scenic E Tech
Motorfinity offers exclusive discounts on the Renault Scenic andother vehicles, potentially saving you thousands. Our personalised account managers handle the entire process, from enquiry to delivery, ensuring a seamless experience.
Are you eligible?
Our nation’s Armed Forces, Veterans, Emergency Services, NHS, Police and Prison Services, the Education and Social Care sectors and more form our eligible audience.
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