We recently had the opportunity to test drive the all-new Renault Scenic E-Tech, a reinvented model that now takes the form of a chic, zero-emissions family crossover. It’s been awarded the 2024 European Car of the Year title, marking its impressive debut in its new segment.
The Renault Scenic E-Tech is priced competitively starting from £37,495 and offers a compelling range of features across its three trim levels: Techno, Esprit Alpine, and Iconic. It stands out with a blend of hatchback and SUV styling cues, featuring a striking front end with distinctive LED headlights and flush door handles, complemented by large 19-inch or 20-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, the Scenic E-Tech impresses with its modern design and quality materials. The cabin is spacious, accommodating, and practical with numerous storage compartments and a generous 545-litre boot capacity (expandable to 1,670 litres with the rear seats folded). Notably, the rear central armrest doubles as a holder for smartphones or tablets, featuring USB-C ports, and higher-spec models include a innovative ‘Solarbay’ glass roof that adjusts opacity at the touch of a button without compromising headroom.
Renault emphasizes sustainability with the Scenic E-Tech, using 24% recycled materials in its construction and ensuring that 90% of its mass, including the battery, is recyclable. Standard equipment is comprehensive, featuring advanced driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, alongside comfort features such as heated seats and steering wheel.
Performance-wise, the Scenic E-Tech is offered with two battery options:
– A standard range model with a 60kWh battery and 168bhp motor, achieving over 260 miles of range and accelerating from 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds.
– A larger 87kWh battery variant with a more potent 217bhp motor, delivering an impressive 379 miles of range and a quicker 0-62mph time of 7.9 seconds.
Charging capabilities are robust, supporting up to 150kW for the larger battery and 130kW for the basic one, enabling a 20-80% charge in approximately 30 minutes. Notably, the Scenic E-Tech includes a standard heat pump, enhancing efficiency and charging performance in colder conditions.
On the road, the Scenic E-Tech offers a comfortable and refined driving experience with light steering and a smooth ride quality, making it ideal for urban and highway driving alike. While it may not be the most dynamic in its class, it handles corners well with good grip, though the brakes could benefit from more responsiveness.
Overall, the Renault Scenic E-Tech stands out as a stylish, practical, and well-equipped electric family car. It combines attractive pricing with a range of features that make it a strong contender in the competitive EV market, offering a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and eco-friendly vehicle.