For the bulk of us, diesel fuel has always been deeply associated with commercial vehicles. Over the past decade, combustion technologies have matured substantially, such that burning diesel is cleaner and more efficient than ever. That prompted more carmakers to introduce diesel variants alongside their gas-gulping standard line-up.
While European countries have widely accepted diesel cars, the local take-up rate is still kept minimal. That could be due to our exorbitant taxes of diesel cars while the common perception about diesel being dirty can’t be completely negated too.
The latest Grand Scenic is now available with a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel. With the revised diesel tax all set to come into place next year, things are just starting to get better.
Exterior
The Grand Scenic has been in the local scene for over a decade now. The French MPV provided a good variety for the local motorists, often edging out the competition with its stylish looks coupled with a tinge of French-eccentricity.
The latest generation took on a more rounded approach to the aesthetics. Finding their way with chromed bits, Renault has decidedly given the Scenic a more contemporary feel, The fact that the day-time running LEDs are a nice and soothing touch justifies this too. But unlike the recently updated Megane RS, the Grand Scenic doesn't possess the menacing looks on its headlamps. Instead, it exudes a sense of gentleness with its lady-like 'eye-lids' headlamps.
While European countries have widely accepted diesel cars, the local take-up rate is still kept minimal. That could be due to our exorbitant taxes of diesel cars while the common perception about diesel being dirty can’t be completely negated too.
The latest Grand Scenic is now available with a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel. With the revised diesel tax all set to come into place next year, things are just starting to get better.
Exterior
The Grand Scenic has been in the local scene for over a decade now. The French MPV provided a good variety for the local motorists, often edging out the competition with its stylish looks coupled with a tinge of French-eccentricity.
The latest generation took on a more rounded approach to the aesthetics. Finding their way with chromed bits, Renault has decidedly given the Scenic a more contemporary feel, The fact that the day-time running LEDs are a nice and soothing touch justifies this too. But unlike the recently updated Megane RS, the Grand Scenic doesn't possess the menacing looks on its headlamps. Instead, it exudes a sense of gentleness with its lady-like 'eye-lids' headlamps.
Overall, the softer edges also give rise to a more feminine look, especially when viewed from the front quarts. The rear-ward slopping roof, and converging shoulder-lines, accentuate a more aerodynamic profile, taking away the usual bulky feel of an MPV.
Interior
The Scenic's driver console ditches the convention instruments. In its place is a multi-function TFT (Thin Film Transistor) screen which offers inter-switchable display modes and colours.
The new screen offers great legibility, but lacks the visual aesthetics, looking slightly awkward in the aluminium and leather clad interior which poses a more serious note. One may also take some time to find the right switches to the electronic systems - such as trip computer and display controls - lacking the intuitiveness of the centralised infotainment system found in other continental models.
Otherwise, the Scenic's cabin is genuinely a nice place to be in, set with three rows of plush cushions which are ergonomically sound for distant commuting - not that we need that on our puny island, but it makes any trip a pleasant one.
The Scenic's driver console ditches the convention instruments. In its place is a multi-function TFT (Thin Film Transistor) screen which offers inter-switchable display modes and colours.
The new screen offers great legibility, but lacks the visual aesthetics, looking slightly awkward in the aluminium and leather clad interior which poses a more serious note. One may also take some time to find the right switches to the electronic systems - such as trip computer and display controls - lacking the intuitiveness of the centralised infotainment system found in other continental models.
Otherwise, the Scenic's cabin is genuinely a nice place to be in, set with three rows of plush cushions which are ergonomically sound for distant commuting - not that we need that on our puny island, but it makes any trip a pleasant one.
For us, the highlight has got to be the two-piece panoramic glass roof. Shedding light into the cabin, it promotes a greater sense of spaciousness. Interior trims are also praise-worthy, carrying a premium feel to them.
As a mid-size MPV, the Scenic can either do with three rows of seating with limited leg-room and boot space; or as a comfortable 5-seater with ample allowances both in the seating and load-lugging quarters. The centre row,however, lacks the versatility found in the last row - it requires some tugging to remove completely from the interior.
As a mid-size MPV, the Scenic can either do with three rows of seating with limited leg-room and boot space; or as a comfortable 5-seater with ample allowances both in the seating and load-lugging quarters. The centre row,however, lacks the versatility found in the last row - it requires some tugging to remove completely from the interior.
The Drive
Inevitably, the power-plant beneath the hood is one of the highlights of this model. The oil-burner has been force-induced to churn out 110bhp - 30 short of its 2.0-litre petrol-driven brethren. But like any diesel car, the Scenic makes up for it with its wholesome torque - 240Nm of them compared to 195Nm from the petrol.
Delivering the power to the wheels is a dual-clutch automatic gearbox - what Renault calls EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch). Although swopping of the first few gears feels touchy, it is never too jerky.
Off the line, the Scenic feels capable, but not inspiring. The 240Nm is adequate for lugging the heft of the MPV. When stretched however, turbo-diesel unit feels exhaustive, showing signs of reluctance in overtaking attempts.
The Scenic, like any other diesel offerings, comes with the perpetual clattering. That said, the obtrusions are more obvious to the front occupants. Otherwise, the Scenic makes for a grand tourer with the pliant ride and comfortable, well-appointed cabin.
Inevitably, the power-plant beneath the hood is one of the highlights of this model. The oil-burner has been force-induced to churn out 110bhp - 30 short of its 2.0-litre petrol-driven brethren. But like any diesel car, the Scenic makes up for it with its wholesome torque - 240Nm of them compared to 195Nm from the petrol.
Delivering the power to the wheels is a dual-clutch automatic gearbox - what Renault calls EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch). Although swopping of the first few gears feels touchy, it is never too jerky.
Off the line, the Scenic feels capable, but not inspiring. The 240Nm is adequate for lugging the heft of the MPV. When stretched however, turbo-diesel unit feels exhaustive, showing signs of reluctance in overtaking attempts.
The Scenic, like any other diesel offerings, comes with the perpetual clattering. That said, the obtrusions are more obvious to the front occupants. Otherwise, the Scenic makes for a grand tourer with the pliant ride and comfortable, well-appointed cabin.
Despite its heft, the Scenic feels nimble over bends, with the nicely weighted steering. The large glass areas significantly improve all-round visibility, making parking manoeuvres more manageable, especially for this huge car. It too comes with all-round proximity sensors and a reverse camera to help with the chore.
Conclusion
The latest Grand Scenic offers a good blend of functionality and sharp looks, especially in diesel guise as it offers segment leading running costs.
Summing up the attributes, the Grand Scenic offers a good run for the money, combining practicality and French styling, which will make it stand out from the usual crowd. While the diesel is comparatively less refined than the standard petrol variant, it is a small price to pay. We reckon it is a feasible solution for family man and soccer mums alike.
Conclusion
The latest Grand Scenic offers a good blend of functionality and sharp looks, especially in diesel guise as it offers segment leading running costs.
Summing up the attributes, the Grand Scenic offers a good run for the money, combining practicality and French styling, which will make it stand out from the usual crowd. While the diesel is comparatively less refined than the standard petrol variant, it is a small price to pay. We reckon it is a feasible solution for family man and soccer mums alike.
