Thirty years after pioneering the compact MPV segment, the Renault Scenic has made a significant return, reimagined as an all-electric SUV. The transformation sees the once-unfashionable people carrier evolve into an on-trend electric crossover, aiming to meet the demands of modern families and the growing electric vehicle market. The original Scenic, launched in the 1990s, was celebrated for its practicality and versatility, inspiring a wave of imitators before its fourth-generation production ceased in 2022.
The new Scenic E-Tech is positioned as a more practical alternative to Renault's Megane E-Tech hatchback, expanding the manufacturer's increasingly diverse SUV lineup. It enters a highly competitive segment, vying for consumer attention against established and emerging rivals such as the Ford Explorer, Vauxhall Grandland, Skoda Elroq, and Peugeot E-3008, all of which are targeting the same family-oriented electric vehicle buyers.
Initially offered with two powertrain options, Renault has streamlined the Scenic E-Tech range. Every new model now comes equipped with a 220hp electric motor paired with an 87kWh battery as standard. This configuration provides an official WLTP range of up to 381 miles, placing it competitively against its peers; for instance, the Vauxhall Grandland Electric achieves 321 miles, while the extended-range Ford Explorer offers 374 miles. Charging capabilities support speeds of up to 150kW DC, allowing for a 15-80 percent charge in approximately 37 minutes.
From a driving perspective, the Scenic E-Tech has been engineered with its family-focussed purpose firmly in mind. Acceleration from 0-62mph takes a respectable 7.8 seconds, deemed ample for typical family duties. The steering prioritises lightness and agility, while the suspension is tuned for comfort, ensuring a relaxed ride. Real-world range estimates suggest drivers can expect between 270 and 300 miles on a single charge, aided by standard features such as a heat pump, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel, which help to preserve battery life by efficiently managing cabin temperature.
Inside, the Scenic E-Tech adopts a familiar Renault aesthetic, featuring a portrait-oriented 12-inch central touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. A welcome design choice is the retention of physical controls for the air conditioning. The Google-integrated infotainment system is user-friendly, offering effective voice commands and navigation that incorporates EV charging points. While the cabin features a mix of faux leather and padded fabrics, some plastics might feel less premium, though overall quality marks a significant improvement over its 1990s predecessor. Practicality remains a core strength, with a spacious cabin, comfortable and adjustable seating, and a generous boot capacity, despite some minor visibility compromises from chunky A-pillars and a small rear window.