Renault has produced motor vehicles since 1899. In 1996, to cater to the medium car segment, Renault launched the Scénic, a “monospace” vehicle which has the open space of a minivan.

The 2007 version introduces the seven-seat Grand Scénic, a people mover that doesn’t take up a lot of space on the road, but plenty of space inside. Called the Phase II Renault Grand Scénic, it is opretty good value at $39,990.
 The Grand Scénic has added 50mm length over its five-seat counterpart, giving it an over length of 4.25m (less than a Commodore at 4.8m). The third row of seats in the Grand Scénic has been ingeniously stowed away into the floor space at the rear allowing a 600L luggage space.

 Access to the third seat row is easy though and is gained simply by tilting one of the individual side seats in the second row forward. The three separate seats in the second row also allow a number of variations in seating arrangements.

Each of the models of the 2007 Scénic range, including the seven-seaters are powered by a 2.0L VVT engine, with 191Nm of torque and 98kW of power, so don’t expect a quick getaway. A turbo diesel variant is due later this year. The only choice of transmission is the proactive automatic, which at times feels like the vehicle is riding the clutch.

When is comes to drivability the vehicle is extremely competent. The variable power steering makes around-town use and ultra-slow speed parking manoeuvres very easy. On the open road, road noise is not a problem, but the car struggles a little up hills or on acceleration. Because of it low centre of gravity; body roll is almost no existent.

The materials used throughout the Grand Scénic’s cabin are of a high quality, and the interior feels very durable and up to the rigours of family life. All-round vision is superb, too, which makes reversing the Grand Scenic very simple. The clearly laid-out dash is easy to use and there are many storage cubbies spread around.

The Grand Scénic comes with a full inventory of active safety devices, including ESP with traction control. The five-seat Scénic has been awarded a 5 star NCAP rating that is almost becoming synonymous with Renault, but as yet the seven-seat is yet to be tested. Standard features include 17inch alloys, parking sensors, leather and huge panoramic electric sunroof, which adding to what is essentially a really good package

AUTOFACTS
Engine: 2.0L, DOHC, 16-valve, 4-cylinder.
Max Power: 98 kW
Transmission: Four-speed auto
Fuel Economy: 8.9L/100 km
Good: Great use of space an ingenious seat design
Not so good: Bizarre transmission and needs a little more grunt

by ANDREW KOCH