New Renault Scenic heralds a fresh approach to the compact MPV segment. Thanks to its compact forms, taut lines, distinctive rear lights and sporty front-end looks, which take their inspiration from those of Renault Mégane Coupé, Scenic exudes a sense of sporty dynamism more readily associated with the world of saloon cars.
Renault Scenic’s styling features a blend of fluid and taut lines. Its dynamic appeal is underlined by its three-part grille which, like that of Renault Mégane Coupé, is based on a central air-intake incorporating a smart black crossbar, flanked by two scoops picked out by satin-finish chrome trim. The lines of these scoops carry over to the headlamps to give Renault Scenic’s front end undeniable personality. The flame-effect line beneath the headlights continues in the form of the character line which sweeps rearward to further emphasize the styling’s dynamic look, a feeling which is reinforced by the plunging roofline and steeply-raked rear screen. The two-part ‘boomerang’-shaped rear lights are similar to those of new Renault Grand Scenic. However, instead of sweeping forward, they are turned inward towards the boot, a detail which is exclusive to Renault Scenic.
Renault Scenic exudes an unmistakable impression of robustness which is expressed by the curves of its front wings and its rear flanks. Wide front and rear tracks (1,545mm front; 1,547mm rear) ensure that Renault Scenic sits squarely on the road with its inherent stability. Its proportions, beltline and large door panels also convey a reassuring protective feel.
It also boasts high-quality materials and body-panel fit-and-finish. The front and rear bumpers discreetly incorporate the parking proximity sensors, while special attention has been paid to the inner door frames. The roof is brazed to the body sides using a laser welding technique which eliminates the need for roof trimming.
The interior styling is based on fluid lines, and the driving environment is particularly uncluttered. The driving and travelling comfort-related controls are either clustered around the steeringwheel or else housed on the centre console in order to free up as much cabin space as possible for occupants.
Special care has also been taken with both the choice of materials – including the soft-touch dashboard finish – and the interior assembly quality for every version. Equal attention has been paid to interior details such as the different trimming strips and surrounds in a bid to achieve a range of individual ambiences for each equipment level. As a result, customers will be able to choose from either beige, elegant hues, or a darker, sportier finish.
The robust, dynamic styling which characterizes all the models that make up the Renault Mégane family is suggestive of first-class travelling comfort and handling.
OCCUPANT-FRIENDLY INTERIOR
Renault Scenic’s length is 4,34m, making it 80mm longer than its predecessor. Its interior has also been thought through carefully to make travelling the most enjoyable experience possible for all occupants. Building on the strengths that helped forge the success of Renault Scenic I and Scenic II, it delivers even more cabin space, comfort and stowage solutions.
Extra space
The more rearward positioning of Renault Scenic’s windscreen pillars has led to an even broader field of vision. Indeed, the horizontal field of vision has been extended by more than eight per cent (87 degrees) which ensures enhanced visibility for drivers at junctions and roundabouts. At the same time, the vertical field of vision has been increased by more than 15 per cent to 31 degrees.
The longer wheelbase (2,702mm, an increase of 20mm over Renault Scenic II) enables second row occupants to benefit from best-in-class kneeroom of 235mm, and permits four or five adults to travel in comfort.
Renault Scenic’s interior is fully modular:
* forward-folding front passenger seatback,
* the second-row seatbacks can be tipped forward, while the seats themselves can be fully folded or removed altogether. The latter arrangement takes carrying capacity to more than 1.8 cubic metres,
* the individually-adjustable second-row seats can slide fore/aft through 130mm, and there are five positions for the reclining seatbacks. Tipping the front passenger and second row seatbacks forward enables items of up to 2.5 metres in length to be carried.
Even greater comfort
All the controls are intuitive and fall readily to hand. The centre console houses the principal driver aids (parking brake assist, cruise control/speed limiter), as well as the multimedia connections (for MP3 player, USB key or iPod©), plus a 12V power supply.
* A saloon car-type driving position: the floor has been raised by 15mm, while the steeringwheel is 2.4 degrees more upright compared with Renault Scenic II, enabling Renault Scenic owners to find a driving position which is more akin to that of a saloon car, without detracting from the level of visibility which MPV customers particularly appreciate.
* Best level adjustment travel: To help find the ideal driving position, the adjustable driver’s seat features a segment-leading height-adjustment capability of 70mm for the seat cushion height, while lumbar-adjustment is now also available for entry-level versions. The five three part ‘grand confort’ headrests provide enhanced support and safety.
To ensure optimal thermal comfort for all occupants, Renault Scenic is equipped with climate control as standard. Automatic dual-zone ‘Soft-Auto-Fast’ climate control is also available. The comfort of rear passengers has been further enhanced thanks to the inclusion of second row vents.
Other comfort-related features available for Renault Scenic are:
* hands-free entry and ignition with a central locking function as the card-holder walks away from the car. A remote lighting function enables owners to locate their car in a big car park, for example, thanks to a specific button on the card which activates the lights.
* parking brake assist. The parking brake is automatically applied when the engine is switched off, then released again by simply pressing on the accelerator pedal when the engine is running. It can also be activated manually through a switch on the centre console.
Stowage solutions for all occupants
New Renault Scenic tops the market with 86 litres of stowage space in the cabin thanks to a range of clever, practical solutions for all occupants:
* four underfloor compartments (two 2.5-litre compartments at the front and two 3.2-litre compartments under the feet of second-row occupants), plus four 4.5-litre drawers underneath the front and outer rear seats. This is standard for all equipment levels.
* an illuminated, chilled 11-litre glovebox.
* an open centre console cubby for small items.
* the double-sliding centre console (the armrest and console slide independently of each other) incorporates nine litres of stowage space divided into two parts: underneath the armrest for small items (such as pens, glasses, credit cards, etc.) and the main bin which can take larger objects, such as a 1.5-litre bottle.
* six map pockets on the front seatbacks: two small pockets for stashing items such as a portable games console, an MP3 player or a soft toy, plus larger map pockets underneath the aviation-style tables.
* three 12V power supplies for front occupants (on the centre console), second-row occupants and in the boot to run and charge electronic items such as mobile phones, game consoles and MP3 or video players, or to power an electric fridge box (available as an accessory).
* hooks positioned at the rear of the sliding centre console and in the boot to hang small bags with a view to preventing their contents from spilling out when the vehicle is moving.
The boot of Renault Scenic is particularly practical thanks not only to its carrying capacity of 522 cubic metres (with the second row seats in their foremost position), but also to its low rear sill height (602mm) and wide tailgate access (1,092mm). The provision of stowage space for the tyre repair kit frees up 33dm3 of additional space. This kit enables tyres to be re-inflated or small holes to be plugged.
EXCLUSIVE TECHNOLOGIES TO FACILITATE DRIVING
Renault Scenic benefits from a long list of technological features designed to take the strain out of motoring and enhance travelling comfort. This list includes a multi-function TFT (Thin Film Transistor) colour dashboard display, the new integrated Carminat TomTom® navigation system and an audible parking proximity sensor combined with a reversing camera.
A clear, customizable colour TFT screen which automatically displays driving-related information as and when it is needed.
Renault Scenic is equipped with a customizable, high-resolution colour TFT (Thin Film Transistor) screen which clearly displays data such as vehicle speed, revs, etc., as well as other functions: cruise control/speed limiter information and door-open/seatbelt/tyre pressure warnings, as well as the reversing camera view (in addition to the audible parking proximity warning).
It takes drivers no time at all to adapt this interface to their individual taste thanks to a button positioned in front of the display. In addition to the choice of six graphics, this button can be used to activate, deactivate or modify the parameters of certain functions, such as the volume of the audible parking proximity sensor warning, the language used or the automatic headlight activation. Meanwhile, the contrast of the entry-level white-on-black LCD screen offers outstanding contrast (30 times superior to that of the previous technology).
Two navigation systems: Carminat TomTom® and Carminat Bluetooth® DVD
The brand new integrated Carminat TomTom® navigation system is the fruit of an exclusive partnership with TomTom and costs €490. It is simple to use and provides all the functions expected of a leading navigation system, including precise, detailed maps displayed on a large 5.8-inch screen, traffic information, alternative routes, speed restrictions, a long list of points of interest, speed camera locations (depending on country), and a wide range of customizable features. The SD card makes it easy for owners to update their Carminat TomTom® system thanks to a bespoke website for downloading navigation data or customization options to make their system truly unique.
Carminat Bluetooth® DVD, a high-end integrated dashboard-mounted navigation system incorporating a seven-inch screen, central navigation controls, a six-CD multichanger (MP3/wma-compatible), Plug & Music multimedia connectivity and voice recognition for both its navigation and Bluetooth® telephone functions.
Audible parking proximity sensor with reversing camera
Renault Scenic is also available with an audible parking proximity sensor combined with a reversing camera. To assist safe parking, the reversing camera displays a view of the zone situated immediately behind the car on the navigation system screen. Meanwhile, the screen displays a colour depiction of the car indicating the direction the driver needs to steer as he or she parks. This is overlaid by a second colour illustration which portrays the vehicle as it moves as a function of the driver’s instructions via the steering wheel and the trajectory of the wheels. The TFT screen also displays an outline view of Renault Scenic with nearby obstacles in front of and behind the car picked out using colour coding.
A comprehensive range of multi-media equipment
Renault Scenic sees the introduction of a new range of audio systems:
* the entry level 80W RadioSat Classic featuring four loudspeakers, an MP3- compatible single CD player, RCA socket and fingertip remote control.
* the high-end 3D Sound by Arkamys® audio system is unique in the automotive market and in the process of becoming the Renault core range’s new audio benchmark.
* Bluetooth® connectivity and audio streaming: this technology allows occupants to listen to music stored on a mobile phone or personal music player via the vehicle’s own audio system thanks to a wireless Bluetooth® connection.
* Plug & Music multimedia terminal situated on the centre console permits an MP3 player, an iPod© or a USB key to be plugged into the vehicle’s own audio system. Playlists are displayed on the dashboard, and the driver can scroll through the functions of their portable player using the car’s fingertip steering wheel-mounted remote controls (automatic sorting of files by album name, artist or music type).
TRAVELLING COMFORT, DRIVING PLEASURE AND SALOON CAR-STANDARD HANDLING
Renault Scenic innovates, too, in the domain of handling, yet without sacrificing the level of comfort which helped forge the reputations of its predecessors. It delivers unprecedented driving pleasure for the compact MPV segment, with reassuring, predictable handling of saloon car standard.
Body-roll control
Renault Scenic’s specific roll angle, which refers to the angle by which a vehicle ‘leans’ when cornering, is the lowest of any MPV and, with lateral acceleration standing at 0.40°/ms -², is similar to that of a saloon car, while the segment average is 0.46°/ms -² (Scenic II: 0.47°/ms -²). For occupants, this gain means a smoother ride and a significant reduction in the risk of travel sickness.
The same technical DNA as new Renault Mégane
Like the Renault Mégane Hatchback and Mégane Coupé, Renault Scenic features a MacPherson-type front suspension coupled with a new horned subframe (‘horn’ cylinder diameter: 62mm) which is three times stiffer than that of the previous generation model. This arrangement restricts lateral subframe movement in relation to the body structure, delivering impeccable directional precision.
The rear suspension is based on a programmed deflection beam. The combination of this closedsection bar, which represents a weight saving of 2kg, coupled with the hollow-section, 25.2mmdiameter front anti-roll bar (2.7kg lighter) ensures stiffer torsional rigidity while at the same time reducing the vehicle’s weight.
Specific damping
With or without passengers, and with or without baggage, Renault Scenic’s handling has been tuned to deliver an exacting standard of comfort. Extensive work on damping has led to enhanced control of vertical movement, improved absorption of unevenness in road surfaces and optimized body movement control. This progress is chiefly due to:
* spring flexibility (front: 15mm/100DaN, rear: 18mm/100DaN),
* the fitment of hydro-elastic lower wishbone mountings,
* new pressure front dampers.
An all-new power-steering system
Renault Scenic is equipped with the same electric power steering system as that which was developed for Renault Mégane.
The more advanced power steering control unit (1,000Hz compared with 420Hz in the case of Scenic II), the faster inductive torque sensor (0.6ms compared with 2.4ms) and the more dynamic servo motor (bandwidth 300Hz compared with 70Hz) combine to deliver swifter response to drivers’ instructions and also suppress the inertia and viscosity felt at the wheel.
These modifications have resulted in greater directional precision and a more responsive front end. To sum up, Renault Grand Scenic’s steering precision and turn-in performance contribute to the pleasing, reassuring sensation which makes Renault Renault Scenic’s handling more like that of a saloon car, without detracting from its excellent level of comfort.
THE dCi AND TCe ENGINE RANGES: PERFORMANCE AND RESPECT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
The engines and transmissions available for Renault Scenic are adapted to the needs of modern motorists. Their everyday running costs are between 20 and 30 per cent lower than was the case with previous generation powertrains, while the extensively renewed dCi and TCe ranges are acclaimed both for their fuel efficiency and the driving enjoyment they provide. They also deliver torque and power from low engine speeds across a broad rev-band in all situations.
The dCi engine range
Renault Scenic customers can choose from a wide selection of diesel engines, namely the dCi 85, dCi 105, dCi 110 DPF (diesel particulate filter), dCi 130 (with or without DPF), dCi 150 DPF with automatic transmission and dCi 160 DPF mated to a manual gearbox.
The 1.5 dCi block
It goes without saying that Renault Scenic is available with the 1.5-litre diesel engine which has been so widely praised for its fuel efficiency and driving pleasure. This 1,461cc block is available in three power outputs, with the 85hp and 105hp versions now joined by the new particulate filter-equipped dCi 110. All these engines can lay claim to exceptionally low CO2 emissions, allowing them to qualify for the Renault eco² signature:
* 130g/km in the case of the dCi 85,
* 130g/km in the case of the dCi 105 (with 15-inch wheels) or 134g/km (16-inch wheels),
* 134g/km in the case of the dCi 110 DPF (with 15-inch wheels) or 136g/km (16-inch wheels).
Spotlight on the dCi 110 DPF
The particulate filter-equipped dCi 110 powerplant complies with forthcoming Euro5 legislation. Regeneration is entirely transparent for the driver thanks to an additional injector located in the exhaust line. This so-called fifth injector technology is covered by 30 patents and contributes to the lower running costs.
Widely acclaimed for its efficiency and acoustic performance, this engine block boasts punchy, responsive performance from low revs thanks to its optimized combustion (five squirts per cycle) and specific turbocharger management. The dCi 110 DPF engine produces peak torque of 240Nm at 1,750rpm, while the combined cycle fuel consumption of Renault Scenic with this powerplant is 5.1 litres/100km (with 15-inch wheels), making it one of the market’s most fuel-efficient engines for its performance. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, it provides remarkable driving pleasure, too.
In terms of running and servicing costs, the dCi 110 DPF figures among the best engines in its class. Oil change intervals are every 30,000km (or every two years) and the diesel filter has a life expectancy of 60,000km. The timing belt needs changing every 160,000km, while the particulate filter comes with a lifetime warranty.
The dCi 130 engine
Now available for the Renault Mégane range, the dCi 130 engine has been significantly reworked in order to comply with Euro5 legislation. Equipped with this powerplant mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, Renault Scenic returns combined cycle fuel consumption of just 5.5 litres/100km.
The peak power of this 1,870cc block is 130hp (96kW) at 3,750rpm, with maximum torque (300Nm) available from 1,750rpm. These figures are possible thanks to a revised variable geometry turbocharger which features curved blades that contribute to swifter response and faster power availability . The seven-hole injectors (compared with six previously) ensure a finer and more efficient fuel spray. Last but not least, the catalytic particulate filter (regeneration by combustion) and new, cooled EGR enable it to comply with forthcoming Euro5 legislation.
In addition to improving Renault Scenic’s dynamic and acoustic performance, these features also optimize fuel consumption. The dCi 130 engine is astonishingly quiet and powerful, yet also respectful of the environment, emitting just 145g/km of CO2.
These improvements have also led to lower running and servicing costs. Oil change intervals have been extended to 30,000km or every two years compared with every 30,000km or every two years previously and the timing belt only needs changing every 160,000km (instead of every 120,000km previously).
The dCi 160 engine with manual gearbox, and the dCi 150 with automatic transmission
Renault Scenic can be ordered with the celebrated 2.0 dCi powerplant, mated to either six-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox. It is equipped with a catalytic particulate filter (regeneration by combustion) which has the advantage of being able to run without additives. As well as their performance, noise and environmental credentials, the dCi 150 engine with automatic transmission and the dCi 160 with manual gearbox figure among the most efficient in their class, with power outputs of 150hp (110kW) at 4,000rpm and 160hp (118kW) at 3,750rpm respectively. Maximum torque is respectively 360Nm (dCi 150) and 380Nm (dCi 160) which is available from 2,000rpm, and both engines climb smoothly and briskly up the revs to 5,000rpm.
The petrol engine range
Depending on market, the Renault Scenic line-up features a range of five petrol engines, including the new TCe 130 (Turbo Control efficiency).
The 1.6 16V 110hp engine (petrol, E85 and LPG versions)
In addition to remarkable driving enjoyment, these two powerplants deliver punch and flexibility at low revs, sprightly response at higher engine speeds and cushioned acoustics across the full rev-band. Depending on market, both petrol and E85 bioethanol versions of this engine are available, while an LPG version is due for release at the end of 2009 or early 2010.
The 1.6 16V 140 engine
The new 2.0 16V 140 petrol engine claims peak power of 140hp (103kW) at 6,000rpm and maximum torque of 195Nm at 3,750rpm. It drives through the Renault-Nissan Alliance-developed CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). First seen on Renault Mégane, this transmission eliminates the need for conventional gear changes to provide smooth, stepless shifts.
The new TCe 130 engine
The new TCe 130 engine is a further eloquent illustration of Renault’s downsizing policy. It is particularly fuel efficient and respectful of the environment, with fuel consumption of just 7.1 litres/100km (equivalent to 168g of CO2/km). This 1,397cc powerplant packs the power of a 1.8-litre engine (130hp/96kW) and the torque of a 2.0-litre engine (190Nm). It drives through a six-speed manual gearbox.
The TCe 130 ranks among the best engines in its class as far as running and servicing costs are concerned. The use of a timing chain favours reliability and acoustic comfort, while oil change intervals and oil filter changes are every 30,000km (or every two years). The air filter needs to be changed every 90,000km (or every four years), and the sparkplugs and accessory drive belt must be replaced every 120,000km (or every six years).
