Does the Renault Scenic deserve its title of Car of the Year?

Why have the strategic, design, and technological choices that guided the development of Scenic E-Tech electric been praised by the industry?

Scenic E-Tech electric has won the 2024 Car of the Year trophy awarded by the European jury « The Car of The Year »… just like the first-generation Scenic did in 1997. 27 years separate two models driven by the same philosophy. Space on board, modularity, and an affordable price. Ultimately, only the motorization has truly evolved between these two generations, and what a change !!!

The latest Scenic is electric with a motor up to 160 kW (220 horsepower) and a dedicated electric platform AmpR Medium. With its 87 kWh battery, Scenic E-Tech electric reassures long-distance drivers, whose peace of mind is also ensured by the dual compatibility of all versions with DC fast charging stations found along or on highways, and AC charging at domestic stations. Fully electric, offering a WLTP range of up to 625 kilometers and fast charging up to 150 kW to meet family escapade needs, Scenic has managed to evolve.

From minivan to SUV

In 1996, Scenic revolutionized the market by positioning itself as the first compact minivan in European automotive history. Under the idea of « Safety Concept Embodied in a New Innovative Car », which translates in French as “a safety design through an innovative and unprecedented car,” it changed the rules of family vehicles. Scenic was a « cocoon vehicle », designed from the inside out.

In 2024, Scenic E-Tech electric lost this originality to blend into the SUV crowd. The harsh law of evolution applied to an automotive benchmark. It retains its DNA and remains designed as the main vehicle for households, whether for long weekend or vacation trips. It does so while losing its minivan appearance but keeping its advantages with wheels pushed to the corners, a long wheelbase of 2.78 meters, and a flat floor. This provides space for passengers with a rear knee room of 278 mm, but also for luggage with a trunk volume of 545 liters. The innovative Solarbay opaque glazed roof and rear « ingenius » armrest complete the interior features. They contribute to redefining the onboard experience, alongside the OpenR Link multimedia system with integrated Google, entertainment and informational apps, and the vehicle’s unique sound signature, born out of an exceptional collaboration with artist, composer, and author Jean-Michel Jarre.

To please, one must first avoid displeasing. This new Scenic successfully blends the demands of a society more demanding than ever but also highly attentive to expenses. And perhaps that is the argument that makes the difference. The starting price of the Scenic E-Tech electric is set at 39,990 euros in France, where it can be ordered. As the first electric vehicle on the French market eligible for the ecological bonus with a range exceeding 600 km, it undoubtedly deserves its title.