The Curious Case Of The Multi-Pocketed Mango
The Renault Scenic is just like it’s larger Grand Scenic MPV sibling, but minus its last row of seats. So this is an MPV without the last row of seats… Or is this a large hatchback… Or is this an SUV. Well Renault certainly thinks so, adding further to the confusion, since it does bear the same “Scenic” moniker.
The Scenic gets just one engine choice in Singapore, the same frugal diesel 1.5 turbocharged engine its larger people-carrying sibling uses, good for a healthy twist of 260Nm from just 1,750rpm and 110bhp. Acceleration to 100km/h is at a rather relaxed 12.4 seconds. Thanks to the seven-speed dual clutch transmission, gearshifts are smooth, without the jerks normally experienced in-between changes.
Being a diesel, day-to-day running cost is also low, with a claimed combined fuel efficiency of 25km/l.
While performance is best described as relaxed, it is not disappointing at all, in-fact the drive is actually comfortably satisfying, with enough grunt for its purpose. Add in a good dose of suspension travel, and those large 20” rims which are less affected by bumps in the road, and you will soon realise that the Scenic is a seriously purpose-built car, and not just a shortened Grand Scenic afterthought.
Cabin insulation too is good, and you would hardly hear any diesel clatter. Our only issue is the wind noise developed by the large wing mirrors at speed.
While it might come across as an oddball, and one which sits on multiple fences of categorisation, if you were to look at the Scenic from a practical standpoint, it delivers well on family friendliness.
For those who may clock plenty of mileage over a course of a year, the Scenic’s superb fuel economy certainly is a plus.
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