What We Like
Stylish design
Generous amounts of equipment
BOSE sound system
Ample storage options
Highly practical
What We Dislike
Could do with better engine refinement
Infotainment system isn't the most streamlined
Launched in Singapore in 2017, the stylishly designed fourth generation Renault Grand Scenic looked to buck the trend of 'boring' seven-seater multi-purpose vehicles. With its combination of good looks, ample practicality and all-around functionality, it proved to be a popular choice with buyers.
Now, Renault is launching the Grand Scenic BOSE Edition, with additional equipment to further improve the quality and value-for-money proposition of the Grand Scenic. So, is it worth it?
The Grand Scenic's bold and handsome styling is definitely a departure from traditional family MPVs
BOSE, you say?
The additional 'BOSE' nomenclature is primarily because the Grand Scenic comes equipped with the branded speakers. Specifically, you get 11 Bose speakers and a subwoofer, which together with a specially configured digital amplifier, deliver surround sound with clear tones and rich bass.
Additionally, compared to the standard model, you also get full LED head lights, hands-free auto-park assist, a gloss black centre console, electric front seats with massage function, head-up display, as well as the multi-sense system with customisable driving modes.
The BOSE sound system includes 11 speakers and a subwoofer
Is it a better package?
These additions certainly improve the quality of life inside the car. The massage seats, for one, are a nice addition especially for drivers that spend long periods of time in the car. The auto park function is useful for drivers who might struggle in tight parking spaces.
But, if we're being honest, we didn't muck around with the multi-sense system very much. There's ostensibly a 'Sport' mode, but this is a seven-seater MPV after all, so there doesn't seem to be much sense in testing the car's 'sportiness'.
There are three massage programs for the driver and front passengerThe additions augment what is already a well-equipped car - ample equipment include four USB ports, panoramic sunroof, Apple CarPlay connectivity, rear view camera, blind spot monitoring system, the list goes on.
Now, Renault is launching the Grand Scenic BOSE Edition, with additional equipment to further improve the quality and value-for-money proposition of the Grand Scenic. So, is it worth it?
BOSE, you say?
The additional 'BOSE' nomenclature is primarily because the Grand Scenic comes equipped with the branded speakers. Specifically, you get 11 Bose speakers and a subwoofer, which together with a specially configured digital amplifier, deliver surround sound with clear tones and rich bass.
Additionally, compared to the standard model, you also get full LED head lights, hands-free auto-park assist, a gloss black centre console, electric front seats with massage function, head-up display, as well as the multi-sense system with customisable driving modes.
Is it a better package?
These additions certainly improve the quality of life inside the car. The massage seats, for one, are a nice addition especially for drivers that spend long periods of time in the car. The auto park function is useful for drivers who might struggle in tight parking spaces.
But, if we're being honest, we didn't muck around with the multi-sense system very much. There's ostensibly a 'Sport' mode, but this is a seven-seater MPV after all, so there doesn't seem to be much sense in testing the car's 'sportiness'.
How does it fare on the roads?
With 110bhp and 260Nm of torque from the 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine, the Grand Scenic isn't the quickest car in the world. 0-100km/h takes a languid 13.2 seconds, but driven lightly, the low-end torque from the engine should get you through most driving situations without too many problems.
WIth the third row folded, the Grand Scenic offers 596 litres of boot spaceThe car's light steering means it's easy to pilot, and visibility all-around is pretty good. Where the car is slightly wanting is in overall refinement. The engine is rough sounding and slightly noisy. Also, wearing 20-inch wheels, the ride in the Grand Scenic is a little on the bumpy side, though it's in no way uncomfortable.
That said, we don't think these criticisms really take away from the primary function of a car like this. As a seven-seater MPV, it certainly delivers on the practicality and functionality front. There are a total of 13 storage compartments in the car, including four handily tucked away underfloor (ideal for quick jaunts into JB, if you know what we mean).
You can easily fold down the second and third row of seats with a push of a buttonAlso, the second and third row seats can be folded easily via a touch of a button, either through the 8.7-inch touchscreen or via the buttons in the boot area. This expands the 233-litre boot to 596 litres in five-seater configuration.
Being a diesel, the Grand Scenic will also go pretty far on one full tank. We managed to clock about 18.5km/L.
Well equipped and well priced, the Renault Grand Scenic BOSE Edition will definitely appeal to buyers
It comes down to price, right?
Should you fork out the additional $10,000 for the BOSE Edition compared to the standard Grand Scenic? We think it's a reasonable enough investment. After all, priced at $123,999 (as of 21 Februrary 2019), the Grand Scenic BOSE Edition is still one of the more affordable seven-seater MPVs in the market.
With 110bhp and 260Nm of torque from the 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine, the Grand Scenic isn't the quickest car in the world. 0-100km/h takes a languid 13.2 seconds, but driven lightly, the low-end torque from the engine should get you through most driving situations without too many problems.
That said, we don't think these criticisms really take away from the primary function of a car like this. As a seven-seater MPV, it certainly delivers on the practicality and functionality front. There are a total of 13 storage compartments in the car, including four handily tucked away underfloor (ideal for quick jaunts into JB, if you know what we mean).
Being a diesel, the Grand Scenic will also go pretty far on one full tank. We managed to clock about 18.5km/L.
It comes down to price, right?
Should you fork out the additional $10,000 for the BOSE Edition compared to the standard Grand Scenic? We think it's a reasonable enough investment. After all, priced at $123,999 (as of 21 Februrary 2019), the Grand Scenic BOSE Edition is still one of the more affordable seven-seater MPVs in the market.
