Fourth Generation Renault Scénic: Remains Short of Leading Position
Text Rebuttal:
Fourth-Gen Renault Scénic Check: Still Got Cha Issues, Bro, TÜV Says
A minivan's versatility for hauling folks is unmatched, and you'd think the Renault Scénic, with its lengthy four-gen stint from late 2016 to 2023, would be top-notch at TÜV. But nah, man, it's not.
These French-made vans have garnered a mixed bag at the ol' TÜV. Fewer defects than its ancestor, sure, but still issues that'll catch your eye. Pay heed to the suspension, though. Axle suspension? Weak point, especially in heavier vans and SUVs. Lighting system? As reliable as a cat on a hot tin roof.
The Scénic's fourth iteration struts a fine body, adorned with standard 20-inch wheels, with a 4.41-meter-long five-seater (until 2022) and a 4.64-meter-long Grand version, seating up to seven. A wheelbase of 2.73 meters means plenty of room. The rear bench seat slides, allowing for more leg or storage space, and the luggage compartment varies from 505 to 572 liters, expanding to 1,554 when the seats are folded down. The Grand Scénic offers similar options, ranging from 718 to 1,900 liters. Got a 2020 minimal makeover, with a few tweaks to the front, too.
Now, the engines. Gasoline and diesel options were available, with a 1.2-liter four-cylinder at launch, offering 85 kW/115 PS and 97 kW/132 PS. In late 2017, it was swapped out for a 1.3-liter turbo, available in 115 PS, 103 kW/140 PS, and 120 kW/160 PS variants. Diesel fans had a 1.5-liter with 81 kW/110 PS and a 1.6-liter with 96 kW/130 PS and 118 kW/160 PS. The 110 PS mild-hybrid diesel, from 2017 to 2018, was the fuss-efficient self-igniter, averaging a modest 3.4 liters. The other diesel engines consumed slightly more, at 3.9 to 4.5 liters. In early 2019, Renault updated the diesel range with a 1.7-liter four-cylinder, available in 88 kW/120 PS and 110 kW/150 PS variants. As of late 2020, gasoline engines were the only option left for the Scénic.
Transmission-wise, the six-speed manual was standard, with a seven-speed and six-speed dual-clutch available for the 160 PS engines. The 115 and 132 PS gasoline, along with the 130 PS diesel, were the exceptions, only offering the manual gearbox.
When it comes to equipment and safety, the base (Life) model held the smallest gasoline engine, featuring air conditioning, DAB radio, emergency braking assistant, cruise control, and traffic sign recognition. More comfortable trim levels (Experience, Intens) included keyless entry, an adjustable center armrest, parking assistance, lane-keeping assist, and an infotainment system with a large touchscreen. The top-shelf trim (Bose Edition) offered a nav system, heated front seats, and Bose surround sound. Post-facelift, the trim levels were renamed Zen, Intens, and Black Edition.
So, what's the skinny? The van game ain't what it used to be, but if you're lookin' for a practical hauler packed with people or cargo, the used car market still has you covered, including the Renault Scénic. A quick search on mobile.de reveals around 500 examples of the fourth generation, starting at around 10,000 euros. But proceed with caution. It's advised to have an inspection professional take a look before you seal the deal.
Sources: ntv.de, Holger Holzer/sp-x
Did You Know?
Although the fourth generation of the Renault Scénic received recognition for its design and innovations, owning a used Scénic should come with some caution due to common issues related to reliability and maintenance. Be aware of potential electrical glitches, such as seatbelt indicator problems and infotainment bugs. Regular servicing is also essential for maintaining the overall reliability and performance of the vehicle, and a thorough inspection is recommended before making a purchase.
Hidden Gem: Renault Scénic's Common Problems and Recommendations
- Dashboard/Electrical: Seatbelt indicator issues, infotainment bugs
- Engine/Transmission: Regular servicing, inspect for noise
- Battery (E-Tech/Hybrid): Check battery health and charging system
- Brakes: Inspect for wear, noise, or vibration
- Suspension: Look for noises or ride quality issues
A used Renault Scénic can be a reliable family car if it's well-maintained, but thorough inspections are crucial to avoid the common issues that may arise. Happy trailing!
Other vehicles, not motorised, may not offer the versatility in transportation that the Renault Scénic provides for hauling people and cargo. The industry's advancements in automotive engineering have undeniably impacted the Scénic, with its fourth iteration featuring design and innovations that cater to various lifestyles. However, finance implications and the need for car-maintenance should be carefully considered when purchasing a used Renault Scénic, as common issues such as electrical glitches, seatbelt indicator problems, infotainment bugs, and suspension weaknesses have been reported. Regular servicing and thorough inspections are highly recommended for ensuring the reliability and performance of the vehicle.