A carefully considered interior, cutting-edge tech and an impressive long range for an EV are just a few of the attributes that earned the Renault Scenic a Family Car of the Year award. But can it measure up with an active household and hard-to-impress teenagers putting it through its paces?
The Renault Scenic E-Tech has been named a Family Car of the Year for its inventive fusion of style, technology and practicality.
From motorways to pothole-strewn city streets, the Scenic delivers a calm and composed driving experience across all surfaces.
Here’s the rundown on my extended test-driving experience.
Driving Experience
Over the months I had the Scenic on trial, the lasting impression was that it genuinely lives up to its name. It’s a tranquil drive across every type of terrain.
From a half-term jaunt to the West Country where we hurtled along the M4 and M5 with no need to stop, to a lengthy run to the far reaches of Cornwall, we pushed the Scenic to the limits in terms of distance, load and toughness. As a result, it rose to the occasion, dismissing any worries that EVs can’t be the versatile plug-ins so many British families desire.
Although the acceleration is lively, with 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds, it won’t be winning any drag races. On motorways it remains composed at 70mph, providing decent shove for overtakes and lane changes. The brakes are reliable and, around town, the ride stayed steady over pothole-riddled streets.
There’s a driving mode for every mood. Eco mode predictably eases the car to conserve battery, limits top speed and reduces in-car systems. The sparse approach proved especially handy during a major motorway diversion.
A slightly longer diversion might have required an extra charging stop. But I pulled up at home with 20 miles to spare and no range anxiety – result!
For less thrifty outings, Comfort — the mid-level setting — became my go-to.
Sport delivers that extra burst of power when needed, and Perso is for those who want (and have the time) to personalise their own setup.
Battery Range
We sampled the Iconic Long Range 220 HP variant, which means that, on paper and with a full battery it can achieve up to 369 miles. That’s respectable and, from my EV experience, gives it strong appeal.
The larger battery (87 kWh versus the standard model’s 60 kWh) does, however, come with an approximately £8,000 price premium, so worth bearing in mind when budgeting.
The Scenic’s performance corresponded well with the stated range. In colder conditions a full charge only reached about 330 miles, but that’s acceptable and more than practical.
Similarly, on medium to longer trips it matched the predicted range when driven around 50-60mph. Push closer to 70mph and the figure began to fall away, but only as expected, so nothing to lose sleep over.
Cool Tech
Fancy suave styling? You’ve got it. The tech is a tempting teen fantasy. Audio by French electro-pop legend Jean-Michel Jarre and a rear-view mirror that doubles as a video display were part of the package.
Add the Solarbay panoramic glass roof, which can tint or brighten on demand, plus excellent air conditioning for both rear and front of the cabin to keep things cool, and we managed heatwaves in style.
With the 12” multimedia touchscreen (portrait orientation so it feels like a large phone) and the 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system to boot, me and my crew were well catered for.
Family Friendly Features
My teenagers in the back were impressed by the ever-useful armrest. It unfolds to reveal cup holders, USB sockets and a phone/tablet cradle.
The boot also held a surprise. Lift the easy-to-raise floor mat and you find an additional storage compartment. Ideal for boots in winter, wetsuits in summer and the dog’s kit whatever the season.
The Rivals
Renault is positioning the Scenic E-Tech among a cluster of new mid-sized EVs that have arrived over the past year or so. Key competitors for family buyers include the Kia EV3, Ford Explorer, Volkswagen ID.5 and Skoda Enyaq. Each offers sleek styling and notable cabin features, and the Scenic holds its own. The Tesla Model Y is also in this pack of rivals, but recent political distractions have dented its appeal to UK shoppers.
Final Verdict
Switching to an EV might not yet be the obvious choice for many UK families, but it’s a move that will become increasingly familiar. With an on-the-road price just over £45,000, the Renault Scenic E-Tech can be seen as relatively pricey, yet it delivers the complete package. It’s therefore easy to understand why it was also named European Car of the Year 2024.
Winning plaudits from professional reviewers is one thing, but surviving several months with my lot is another. The Scenic rose to the challenge here too, so that can be added to its trophy shelf.
With a range of up to 369 miles on a full charge, the Scenic’s long-range capabilities stand out in the competitive EV market.
From Jean-Michel Jarre-inspired sound systems to Solarbay panoramic roofs, the Scenic is packed with cutting-edge features.
Smart storage solutions, rear armrests with USB ports and spacious boot space make the Scenic perfect for active families.
The Scenic competes with the likes of the Kia EV3, Volkswagen ID.5, and Tesla Model Y, holding its own in design and versatility.
Renault Scenic E-Tech Iconic Long Range – key facts
Here’s everything you need to know about the Family Car of the Year:
- Price: £45,495
- Acceleration: 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds
- Battery: 87 kWh
- Top Speed: 105 mph
- Power: 220hp
- Range: 369 WLTP
Tech enthusiast and researcher passionate about innovations shaping the future of mobility.
Leave a Reply