Next-generation Renault Grand Scenic stretches into family MPV sector

Following quickly in the footsteps of the Scenic, which was showcased at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, Renault has revealed first details of its fourth-generation Grand Scenic.

Set to rival MPVs like the Citroen C4 Picasso and Kia Carens, the new Grand Scenic will be available as a five- or seven-seater and will be ready to order before the end of 2016.

Bigger than before

This new-generation model has had a bit of a growth spurt and is now 75mm longer, 15mm taller and 20mm wider than its predecessor. That means there’s more interior space and a bigger boot, with the five-seater version now offering 765 litres.

A one-touch seat folding system creates a flat floor, and the new car comes with a sliding luggage cover and lots of additional storage options. These include four underfloor compartments and a hugely practical sliding centre console that provides up to 13 litres of capacity.

For rear passengers the new Grand Scenic can also be equipped with folding tables, two USB ports and sunblinds.

Lots of safety kit available

Full equipment lists are yet to be announced but big news for the latest Grand Scenic is the fitment of 20-inch alloys as standard across the range. The upgraded, thinner rims are designed to save weight and streamline the car’s aerodynamics, which in turn means lower fuel consumption and improved CO2 emissions, and thus lower tax.

There’s plenty of safety kit included on the new car too, including Active Emergency Braking (AEBS) with a pedestrian detection system as standard. This driving aid works across a speed range of 5-37mph.

Depending on the version you choose, other safety kit available includes a lane-keeping aid and fatigue warning system.

Higher-end versions will also be equipped with the firm’s R-LINK 2 multimedia system alongside an 8.7-inch screen that includes voice recognition and a 12-month subscription to TomTom Traffic. A colour head-up display will also be available on certain grades along with a Bose surround-sound system.

The new Grand Scenic also features driving aids  operated via the R-LINK 2 tablet, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, blind spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, collision prevention aids, a reversing camera and hands-free parking.

Hybrid Assist

You’ve got a choice of five diesel and two petrol engines from launch – official figures including CO2 emissions are yet to be announced.

Also introduced to the range for the first time will be a diesel hybrid option that adds a small 48-volt battery alongside the firm’s dCi 110 engine to help improve acceleration and reduce fuel economy. It’ll join the range after launch but before the end of 2016.

Depending on the engine you choose, there’s a choice of six-speed manual or six- and seven-speed versions of the firm’s dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Drivers will also be able to choose five different driving modes via the firm’s Multisense system including Sport, Comfort and Eco. These alter the throttle response and steering set-up to suit.

When can I order one?

The new Renault Grand Scenic will go on sale before the end of the year. Full specifications and P11D pricing will be revealed closer to the time.