Renault Scenic MPV (2016-2019) - Interior & comfort
Although not as stylish as the Renault Scenic exterior, the interior is still a nice place to be
The tall sides of the Scenic’s tyres negate the usual effect big wheels have on ride quality. Also, not only has the suspension been optimised for the wheels, but the seats have, too. They’re said to offer better lateral support than on previous models and are wider than before.
The Scenic’s quietness is impressive too. Very little road noise is transmitted by the tyres or suspension and wind noise can only really be detected when travelling at high speed.
Renault Scenic dashboard
While the exterior styling marks a huge and fairly daring step forward for Renault, inside it looks far more restrained. Renault Megane drivers will feel at home behind the wheel, as this car is based on the same platform as that hatchback and the dashboard layout is very similar.
Dark plastics abound, and they would lend a slightly oppressive air if it wasn’t for the expansive windscreen – and the optional panoramic roof fitted to our test example. The Scenic actually feels like you’re sitting in a regular hatchback in most respects, aside from the slightly raised driving position.
The Signature model has a large 8.7-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen for controlling much of the on-board equipment. Lesser models get a rather smaller touchscreen with pared-down functionality.
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Both interior finish and build quality are far superior to previous generations of Scenic and lend the car a more upmarket feel.
Equipment
In October 2018, Renault simplified the Scenic's trim levels to Play, Iconic and Signature, with entry-level Play still coming with stylish 20-inch alloy wheels as standard. It also has a seven-inch touchscreen, climate control, keyless entry, rear parking sensors and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Iconic adds front parking sensors, privacy glass and Renault's R-Link2 infotainment system. You also get a sliding centre console with two USB ports, a 12-volt socket and aux input for rear passengers.
Sitting at the top of the range, Signature adds technology such as a head-up display and 8.7-inch portrait display. The interior is also improved with a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery and 'one-touch' folding rear seats.
Options
Renault has made a number of optional equipment packs available for the fourth-generation Scenic. The Safety Pack Premium costs £500 and is available across all three trim levels. It includes lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control and a safe distance warning. There’s a £400 Safety Pack option that does without the increasingly useful adaptive cruise control.
There’s also a £500 Parking Pack Premium for all trims, includes a hands-free parking system as well as 360-degree parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring.
Play and Iconic buyers can specify the £800 Look Pack Premium, which includes a panoramic fixed glass sunroof with a powered sunblind, privacy glass for the rear and windows and an auto-dimming mirror.
A £500 Bose Pack, comprising an 11-speaker stereo with subwoofer, is available for the Signature grade. Leather upholstery and heated electric front seats are a £250 option with a memory function for the driver’s. Usefully, it also adds ISOFIX points and under-seat storage to the front passenger seat.
Various individual options are also available. The rear parking camera, full LED headlights, 8.7-inch touchscreen, leather steering wheel and metallic paint can all be ordered separately, depending on the trim level.
Finally, Renault offers optional inserts for personalising the car’s 20-inch alloy wheels.
