First look at the Renault Scenic E-Tech – Car of the Year 2024

The Renault Scenic is almost 30 years old having been introduced in 1996 and sector favourite for much of that time before being removed from the line-up in 2022.

The new replacement model was crowned “Car of the Year 2024” at the Geneva Motor Show in February. It has grown in size and morphed into an SUV and available only with full electric drivetrains.

The car comes in 3 different options:

• Entry-level Techno, starting at £37,495 in Comfort setup and £40,995 in Long Range format
• The Esprit Alpine starting at £43,495 (only in Long Range)
• The top-of-the-range Iconic starting at £45,495 (also only in Long Range)

Is the Renault Scenic E-Tech reliable?

Renault have always scored well in reliability and customer satisfaction tests and there no reason to suggest or expect the latest Scenic E-Tech to be any different. According to Start Rescue, a leading breakdown service in the UK, EV’s are 59% less likely to require a breakdown call-out compared to ICE vehicles.

Likewise, safety is paramount and in keeping with the latest new cars launched the new Scenic E-Tech receives a full 5-star rating.

For further peace of mind, the Scenic E-Tech warranty now extends to 100,000 miles or 3 years, with the battery getting the same mileage or 8 years cover.

Renault Scenic E-Tech Interior and Cockpit

The two stunning 12” touchscreens take centre stage inside the Scenic. They are angled and suited towards the driver.  These screens contain all your infotainment needs and with google built in access to over 50 Apps including Amazon Music and Waze. Even with all this tech there are still physical switches for some of the key functions like climate control etc. This is something that recent studies have suggested is missing on many new models currently.

The commitment to sustainability has led the manufacturer to remove the option for a leather interior so they now offer fine-quality recycled fabrics instead. Further materials inside are either re-cycled or re-cyclable resulting in a clean cabin with a quality feel.

Renault Scenic E-Tech Performance

Few people will choose an SUV of this size for performance. Although being electric the new Scenic E-Tech is rather nimble. The overall practicality and driving position are usually the key considerations. Comfort also scores highly and as the Scenic is only available with front wheel drive we expect it to score well on this front. We will update once we have tested our demo!

Range of the E-Tech

The new Scenic E-Tech offers a choice of drivetrains, labelled “Comfort Range” or “Long Range”.  Comfort Range offers 60kWh and a WLTP range of 260miles. Long Range offers 87kWh and a WLTP range of 379miles.

Impressive statistics from an EV of this size which the motoring press haven’t failed to notice. Auto Express stating the ‘New Renault Scenic E-Tech embarrasses Tesla Model Y on price and range’ ( Source : Auto Express)

To put this into context, in theory that could take you from Southampton to beyond Newcastle upon Tyne or Felixstowe to Newquay. Whilst these figures are yet to correspond to actual real-world driving, they are now pushing towards or even beyond the magic 300-mile real life range that we seem to crave.

Practicality of Scenic E-Tech

As expected from an SUV the Scenic plays host to plenty of storage in the cabin and boasts a cavernous 545 litre boot (with the seats upright). That is bigger than a Volvo XC60 and plenty of space for everything the day and week-ends might throw at you !

All-important cup-holders are provided front and rear, together with USB-C charging points seated on the central armrest. It also has stands that unfold to hold tablets and phones.

Summary

Renault have matched the new Scenic to what surveys and feedback says is important to car buyers today.

Styling is unmistakably Renault and standard equipment across the range is high, with LED headlights, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, power tailgate opening and a host of safety features standard across the range. 

This sector is one of the key battle grounds for EV’s and the Scenic equips itself well. This is especially so when considering equipment, price and the all-important range. 

We certainly can’t wait to try it for real!

If you’re in the market for any Renault or similar vehicle, or considering the transition to electric and not sure it will work for you then give us a call on 01473 372020 or email getintouch@tysoncooper.com We have been running PHEV’s and EV’s for the last ten years and will happily share our thoughts and experiences to help you decide.