The vehicle that created the compact MPV class has received a few styling and equipment upgrades.

Renault’s upgraded both its local Scenic derivates, the 1.6 Expression and 1.9 dCi Dynamique Plus, in both five- and seven seater configuration.

SMARTER OUTSIDE...

Aesthetically the Expression gains anew metal-colour exterior finishes on the door handles, tailgate bar and front bumper.  It side protection cladding, previously dark plastic, is now body-coloured.

Eagle-eyed Scenic enthusiasts will also notice that the front bumper now houses park assist sensors – previously only found around the rear.

For the turbodiesel 1.9 Dynamique, the only notable rolls in its wheelarches, where 17-inch alloy wheels are now standard.

The list of optional items that can be specified with the new Scenic includes tinted rear windows, metallic paint and – in the case of the Dynamique Plus models – a panoramic sunroof, Xenon headlights as well as a rear-view parking camera.

BETTER INSIDE...

Beyond the upgraded styling details, some key changes have been made to Scenic’s cabin – and these are probably of more importance to potential customers as MPVs are in essence about utility, not striking exterior styling.

The Expression gains Renault’s new ‘Erevan’ dark carbon upholstery.

This clever fabric incorporates an innovative Teflon treatment – with obvious benefits.

Although the appearance and feel of the fabric is no different to standard upholstery, its anti-stain and anti-soiling properties protect the seats from water and oil stains, and provide greater resistance to marking and dust.

Satin chrome dashboard detailing (and air-vent finishes) brighten-up the Expression’s cabin, whilst Renault’s joint-venture with TomTom sees its award-winning Carminant  SatNav system added as a standard feature too.

The this latest version of Carminat TomTom Live features more extensive connectivity that includes HD Traffic for up-to-the-minute traffic information, fixed camera warnings, real-time weather information as well as Google Local Search functionality.

The ‘Live’ system includes a free three-month trial period, after which an annual subscription ensures ongoing access.

Additionally, the functionality of the TomTom system has been improved with a clearer image and a more intuitive address input for greater ease of use.

Dynamique Plus models spec-up to full leather trim, with the added convenience of powered adjustment for the front seats.

Both Expression and Dynamique instrumentation displays feature a more visible gear change indicator, with added eco-driving functionality as the pictogram becomes larger and changes colour after six seconds in order to prompt the driver to change gear.

Additionally, a journey report is displayed when the engine is switched off, to help the driver improve his or her eco-friendly driving style.

Expression also adds curtain airbags and ASR anti-skid regulation to its suite of active and passive safety feature.

EFFICIENT ENGINES

In terms of mechanics, the Expression and Dynamique remain unchanged.

Expression is powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, good for 83kW at 6 000rpm, and 151Nm of toque at 4 250rpm. Drive is to the front-wheels via a six-speed manual transmission.

Renault claims the Scenic Expression to run the benchmark 0-100km/h sprint in 11.7 sec, powering on to a top speed of 185km/h. In the combined cycle it returns 7.5l/100km.

If you prefer the lugging power and economy of a turbodiesel engine, Dynamique’s 1.9-litre dCi powers up to 96kW at 3 750rpm, augmented by 300Nm of torque (peaking at 1 750rpm).

These numbers allow for a 10.6 sec benchmark 0-100km/h sprint time, top speed of 195km/h and outstanding average fuel consumption of only 5.5l/100km.

Standard on all Scénic models is a five-year/100 000 km service plan, supported by a five-year/150 000 km mechanical warranty.

So, if you believed the best compact MPV is the one that started it all back in 1996, the newly feature-laden Scenic range is well worth a look.

PRICES
Renault Scénic 1.6 16v Expression -                   R244 900
Renault Scénic 1.9 dCi Dynamique Plus -            R289 900
Renault Grand Scénic 1.9 dCi Dynamique Plus -  R299 900