Presented in March Renault the new generation of the Scénic compact van at the Geneva Motor Show with a radically new design. Now the French are also passing on information about their big brother Grand Scénic, who wants to score with more space, giant wheels and hybrid drive, among other things.
The new line of the French launched in 2012 with the fourth generation of the Clio has meanwhile got used to. Nevertheless, the seven-seater, which has grown to 4,63 meters, is much more eye-catching than its predecessor. Compared to this, the five-door has grown in almost all directions. The wheels have also grown, because the van is standard on large but narrow 20-inch aluminum wheels with tires in the dimensions 195/55, which should be characterized by low rolling resistance and high rolling comfort. They also go well with the proportions of the new crossover design.
In the trunk, Renault promises an increase from 40 to 718 liters. Instead of the previous single seats, the large Scénic behind the front seats now offers an asymmetrically split rear seat, the length of which can be adjusted independently. If the middle back seat is pushed completely forward, the trunk grows to 866 liters.
The Grand also offers two optional seats that can be hidden in the trunk floor. The backrest of the front passenger seat can also be folded away, which should allow objects up to 2,85 meters long to be transported. If you invest a little more money, you can fold away the rear seats with a tap on the touchscreen of the R-Link 2 multimedia system.
In addition to the large and variable luggage compartment, the Scénic also has other functional storage options. There is a 13 liter compartment that can be moved lengthways on rails between the seats in the first and second rows. Among other things, this box has plenty of USB and 12-volt connections that the rear passengers can also use. There is also a 11,5 liter glove compartment in the style of a drawer and four other compartments in the underbody.
In terms of multimedia options, the Grand Scénic is up to date. If you order the R-Link 2, you get a large touchscreen in portrait format like a tablet. In addition to audio and navigation functions, the R-Link system also offers various online-based services. If you value the special sound experience, you can order a Bose surround system with 13 speakers.
As with the compact Scénic, the Grand engine range includes two turbo petrol engines with 84 kW / 115 PS and 96 kW / 130 PS as well as three diesel units with 81 kW / 110 PS, 96 kW / 130 PS and 118 kW / 160 PS. All engines are offered with a manual six-speed gearbox, alternatively for the dCi 110 and the dCi 160 there are also dual clutch gearboxes with seven or six stages available.
As a special treat, Renault will offer the Grand Scénic with a diesel hybrid drive. The 110 PS diesel is supported by an electric motor, especially when accelerating and from low engine speeds. It is powered by a 48-volt battery that is charged by recuperation when braking and coasting. Renault does not yet give any consumption figures, but the electrification of the drive train should bring at least 10 percent fuel savings. According to the NEDC, the current Scénic consumes 4,1 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers.
The Grand Scénic was also technically upgraded in terms of security technology. There is a radar and camera-based emergency braking system which, if necessary, brakes the compact van to a standstill if there is a risk of an impending collision with a pedestrian. The function is active in the speed range between 7 and 60 km / h. Traffic sign recognition with speed warning is also part of the basic equipment. A lane departure warning system, a blind spot warning, a distance cruise control and a high-beam assistant are further details of the safety equipment. Optionally, the lights at the front and rear can also be equipped with LED technology.
With regard to the market launch date, Renault Germany does not yet want to make a precise decision. In any case, Scénic and Grand Scénic should start in 2016. There are still no prices, but the basic version of the Grand Scénic should cost just over 20.000 euros. (Mario Hommen / SP-X)