Renault Scenic or Tesla Model Y Long Range?

The arrival of a Long Range version of the Tesla Model Y Propulsion changes the game for the best electric SUV against the Renault Scenic.

Tesla could not sit idly by while the long-range electric SUV trend left without them. Peugeot 3008, Renault Scenic, and others have now set the standard, with the decreasing production cost of batteries leading to capacities close to or equal to 90 kWh. And that changes everything.

In the case of Tesla and its new Model Y Long Range – not yet available in France unlike the rest of Western Europe – not much information has been provided by the American manufacturer. Aside from the 600 km range in the mixed WLTP cycle, the 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 5.9 seconds, and a price of 49,970 euros in Belgium. That’s 4,000 euros more than the standard Propulsion version which promises a 455 km range.

No information has been given about the origin of this new Tesla: Europe or China? This will make a significant difference for the ecological bonus. Its absence in France, questionable, might suggest that Tesla has already given up on the bonus and perhaps does not want to confuse customers with a version that is indeed attractive but significantly more expensive. Adjusting for the lower base price and the bonus, the gap could reach 10,000 euros between the Propulsion and Long Range versions. It makes it easier to understand Tesla’s dilemma at a time when the Long Range Full version is only slightly more expensive… and less generous in distance. It’s quite confusing!

The Renault Scenic in sight

This Tesla Model Y Long Range, if eventually produced in Germany, could very likely benefit from the ecological bonus if Tesla disguises its XXL battery as a simple option. Its price could then be around 44,990 euros in France if we follow Tesla’s pricing logic between France and Belgium.

Ultimately, the relevance of this comparison with the Renault Scenic hinges on whether or not the bonus is granted. Why? Simply because the Long Range version of the French electric SUV starts at 42,990 euros, after the bonus deduction. This suggests a 2,000-euro advantage on paper for slightly greater range (625 km in the WLTP cycle), but conversely, with less generous equipment.

However, this power dynamic shifts as one moves up the range, to the extent that the Iconic “fully equipped” version, much better equipped and enjoyable for daily use, is more affordable than the Tesla Model Y Long Range “forbidden from the bonus” at a price of 48,490 euros. The same goes for the Esprit Alpine trim, at 44,490 euros, which is also more exclusive and barely less expensive than a hypothetical Tesla produced in Europe. Are you following?

Finally, the idea of national preference does not come into play here when making your choice, as the Renault Scenic is produced in France…

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