Renault Grand Scenic (04-09) - Review

Thanks to low noise levels and a smooth ride the Scenic is great for passengers. It doesn't roll round corners either so those in the back won't end up feeling ill after a journey down country lanes. There's plenty of room in the second row of seats for adult passengers, with generous leg room while the seats slide back to increase room further. The third row is best for children only but it still offers good headroom. There's limited scope for long legs to find comfort though - even with the second-row seats slid forward and less agile people will find climbing in and out a bit tricky.

Even with the third row of seats in place on seven seat models (they fold into the floor when not needed), there is still enough bootspace for a weekly food shop for a family of four. In five-seat configuration the boot is massive and the middle row slides for extra boot or leg space - in addition, Renault has made the most of storage space wherever possible. This includes underfloor storage bins (large enough to take a pair of shoes) in each of the front and second-row footwells, and on some models, a large sliding storage box between the front seats and fold-out picnic trays in the back. Five seat models get extra underfloor storage space in the boot.

It's easy to find a good driving position thanks to a steering wheel that adjusts for reach and height. The centrally-mounted LED instruments are clear and easy to read while the controls are all logically laid out and easy to use, as is the electronic handbrake. However while the interior looks good some of the trim does feel a little thin in places and marks easily - in fact the quality doesn’t seem up to standard in certain areas.