The Renault Scenic E-Tech is the French automaker’s latest entry into the increasingly crowded electric minivan market. It’s a bold redesign of the iconic Scenic, now boasting a sleek, crossover-inspired look and a fully electric powertrain. Let’s delve into the details and see how this family-friendly EV stacks up.
Design and Styling:
- Modern and Eye-Catching: The Scenic E-Tech ditches the boxy silhouette of its predecessors for a more stylish and aerodynamic design. The long hood, sloping roofline, and muscular fenders give it a decidedly crossover feel, while the prominent LED headlights and taillights add a touch of futuristic flair.
- Spacious and Practical: Despite its sleek looks, the Scenic E-Tech remains true to its MPV roots. It offers ample interior space for up to seven passengers, with plenty of headroom and legroom even in the third row. The cargo capacity is also impressive, with 545 liters with the rear seats up and a cavernous 1670 liters with them folded down.
- Sustainable Materials: Renault has made a concerted effort to use recycled and sustainable materials throughout the Scenic E-Tech. The floor mats are made from recycled fishing nets, while the upholstery is partially composed of recycled plastic bottles.
Performance and Range:
- Two Battery Options: The Scenic E-Tech comes in two battery variants: a 60kWh option with a range of up to 249 miles (WLTP) and an 87kWh version with a range of up to 338 miles (WLTP). This should cater to a variety of driving needs and budgets.
- Decent but Not Thrilling: The Scenic E-Tech isn’t designed for blistering acceleration. The 170 horsepower motor in the 60kWh model delivers a 0-60 mph time of 9.3 seconds, while the 220 horsepower motor in the 87kWh version gets you there in 7.9 seconds. However, the electric motor provides instant torque, making the car feel peppy around town.
- Comfortable and Refined Ride: The Scenic E-Tech prioritizes comfort over sporty handling. The suspension is well-tuned to soak up bumps and imperfections in the road, making for a smooth and relaxing ride.
Technology and Features:
- Digital Cockpit: The Scenic E-Tech features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system is intuitive and user-friendly, and it controls everything from navigation and climate to audio and vehicle settings.
- Driver Assistance Systems: The Scenic E-Tech comes loaded with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
- Panoramic Sunroof: The optional panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light and adds to the airy feel of the interior.
Here are some additional points to consider:
- Pricing: The Scenic E-Tech starts at around €35,000 in Europe, which is competitive for an electric minivan. However, pricing for the US market has not yet been announced.
- Competition: The Scenic E-Tech faces competition from other electric minivans like the Peugeot e-Rifter and the Citroen ë-Berlingo. However, it stands out with its longer range and more stylish design.
- Availability: The Scenic E-Tech is currently available in Europe, but it will not arrive in the US until later in 2024.
Verdict:
The Renault Scenic E-Tech is a compelling option for families looking for a spacious, practical, and stylish electric minivan. It offers a comfortable ride, a decent range, and a plethora of tech features. While it might not be the most exciting car to drive, its focus on comfort and practicality makes it ideal for everyday use.
I hope this detailed review of the Renault Scenic E-Tech has been helpful. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.
