Our Rating
4/5
Pros
Cons
Introduction
The Renault Scenic E-Tech represents the brand’s latest foray into the electric vehicle market, transitioning from the previous model’s mini-MPV design to a more contemporary five-seat electric family car. This model seeks to blend the lines between a large hatchback and an SUV, positioning itself as a practical alternative to the electric Renault Megane, and competing directly with models like the Skoda Enyaq and Tesla Model Y.
Battery and Spec Options
The Renault Scenic E-Tech marks a significant step in the electric family car segment with its two battery configurations, catering to different driving needs and preferences. The base model comes equipped with a 60kWh usable capacity battery paired with a 167bhp electric motor. This setup provides a balanced combination of efficiency and performance, capable of achieving 0-62 mph in a respectable 8.6 seconds, aligning closely with competitors such as the Skoda Enyaq 60 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 Standard Range.
For those seeking longer range and more power, the Scenic E-Tech also offers an upgraded version featuring an 87kWh battery paired with a 215bhp electric motor. This higher-spec configuration not only reduces the 0-62 mph time to 7.9 seconds but significantly extends the driving range, offering up to 379 miles on a single charge in its entry-level Techno trim. This surpasses the range provided by several of its competitors, including the long-range variants of the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Skoda Enyaq, and even the Tesla Model Y, positioning the Scenic E-Tech as a strong contender for those prioritizing distance between charges.
The Scenic E-Tech is available in three trim levels, each designed to cater to different user needs and budgets. The entry-level trim focuses on essential features and affordability, while the mid-range option introduces additional comforts and technological enhancements. The top-tier trim level elevates the driving experience further with premium materials, advanced tech features, and more luxurious touches.
All trims come standard with a heat pump, a critical feature for maintaining battery efficiency in colder weather, thus ensuring more consistent range throughout the year. This addition highlights Renault’s commitment to practicality and efficiency, acknowledging the importance of reliable performance under varying environmental conditions.
Interior
The Renault Scenic E-Tech’s interior design combines modern aesthetics with functional practicality, aimed at enhancing the family car experience. Upon entering the cabin, passengers are greeted by a spacious and well-thought-out environment, accentuated by high-quality materials and a contemporary design ethos.
Infotainment and Controls:
Central to the Scenic E-Tech’s dashboard is the 12.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which serves as the hub for navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. The system integrates Google software, ensuring familiarity and ease of use for most users. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for seamless smartphone connectivity
Visibility and Space:
Visibility in the Scenic E-Tech is a mixed bag. The design of the vehicle, with its chunky side mirrors and somewhat narrow windshield, can obstruct the driver’s view, particularly at junctions. This could pose a challenge in urban environments or tight parking spaces. Inside, however, the vehicle excels in providing space
Material Quality and Design:
Renault has made significant strides in interior quality with the Scenic E-Tech. The use of light, part-leatherette upholstery paired with grey textile inserts in higher trims adds a touch of luxury and comfort. The commitment to sustainability is evident, with 80% of the interior materials sourced from recycled components, aligning with the vehicle’s eco-friendly ethos.
Practicality
The Renault Scenic E-Tech is designed with practicality in mind, aiming to cater to the needs of modern families while addressing the demands of daily use. Here’s a closer look at how the vehicle fares in terms of space, storage, and overall utility:
Boot Space and Loading:
The Scenic E-Tech boasts a boot capacity of 545 litres, which places it competitively within its segment, surpassing many rivals but trailing behind the cavernous Tesla Model Y and the Skoda Enyaq. While the space is generally deep and usable, the design presents a significant loading challenge due to the high load lip and the depth from the boot floor to the opening. This can make loading heavy or bulky items like strollers or large suitcases more cumbersome than in vehicles with a flush loading area.
Rear Seat Configuration and Family Features:
The Scenic E-Tech offers a 40/20/40-split for the rear seats, which is more flexible than the typical 60/40 split found in many competitors. This allows for a better balance between passenger and cargo space. However, the seats do not offer sliding or reclining features, which limits the versatility and comfort, particularly for longer journeys.
Cabin Storage and Convenience:
Inside, the Scenic E-Tech provides a variety of storage solutions aimed at enhancing cabin practicality. Door bins, although not overly spacious, complement the generous storage available in the center console. The design includes a movable divider in the cupholder area, allowing for customization based on the occupants’ needs, though this feature can be somewhat finicky to adjust.
Passenger Space and Comfort:
The Scenic excels in providing passenger space, with ample legroom in the rear seats that outclasses many competitors, ensuring comfort even for taller passengers. The panoramic glass roof option enhances the sense of space and light without compromising headroom. However, the width of the rear bench and the contouring of the outer seats may limit comfort when accommodating three adults side by side.
Ride and Handling
The Renault Scenic E-Tech presents an intriguing blend of comfort and efficiency, designed with the everyday demands of family life in mind. Here’s how it stands up in terms of driving dynamics and handling characteristics:
Performance and Acceleration:
The Scenic E-Tech is available with two powertrain configurations. The entry-level variant is equipped with a 60kWh battery paired with a 167bhp electric motor, capable of propelling the car from 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds. This places it in line with rivals like the entry-level Skoda Enyaq and Hyundai Ioniq 5, offering sufficient acceleration for most day-to-day driving scenarios.
For those seeking more vigor, the higher-end model with an 87kWh battery and a 215bhp motor trims the 0-62mph time to 7.9 seconds. Despite this improved acceleration, the Scenic E-Tech doesn’t deliver the instant punch off the line seen in some electric vehicle competitors; it opts for a more measured build-up of speed.
Ride Comfort and Suspension:
The suspension in the Scenic E-Tech is tuned primarily for comfort, aiming to absorb road imperfections and provide a tranquil ride. It effectively smooths out bumps and minor potholes, contributing to a relaxed atmosphere within the cabin. However, the vehicle exhibits a degree of choppiness when encountering sharper-edged imperfections, which can detract from the overall sense of serenity, especially on less-than-ideal road surfaces.
Verdict
The Renault Scenic E-Tech stands out in the electric vehicle market with its spacious interior and competitive range, particularly in the larger battery configuration. While it may not outperform all rivals in terms of ride comfort or driving dynamics, it offers good value and practicality for families. However, potential buyers might find some practicality aspects lacking compared to traditional MPVs. Overall, the Scenic E-Tech is a solid option for those looking for a roomy and environmentally friendly electric family car, provided that ultimate driving performance and rear-seat versatility are not the top priorities.
