While the 2000 model-year version may have dropped the Megane tag, the Scenic is still an object lesson in building cars with the minimum of wasted space. Pull-out trays are located under both front seats, and farther back there are storage compartments under the floor.There's two-level stacking inside the tailgate, thanks to the different levels at which the parcel shelf can be set. Versions with air-conditioning also have a three-can cool box ahead of the gearlever.This is a roomy, high-set five-seater, with three separate rear seats which fold down or can be removed altogether. The Scenic is very versatile, and there's masses of load space if you use it with just the two front seats in place.The rear end of the original Scenic was a styling success, while the front end wasn't. Renault has changed the look there, but it's a bit unsubtle. However, there's a lot more in the way of safety features than French manufacturers used to think was worth installing.Top engine is the latest low-friction, lightweight 140bhp 16-valve two-litre. It was first seen in the 1999 Laguna and Espace, uses variable valve timing, and is altogether a sophisticated, up-to-date design. As well as perking up the performance to a notable degree, it is also much more economical, especially out on the open road, than the less powerful eight-valve engine of the same capacity. On the move, though, engine noise is more obtrusive than in many conventional two-litre cars.Renault talks about the two-litre Scenic as being a "hot MAC" - Multi Activity Car. Hum. It certainly goes well in a straight line, and it has that facility many of the more unconventional French cars enjoy, of handling a lot better than you might think from looking at them.But the previous tyres and suspension settings wouldn't have coped. So, as well as alloy wheels, leather steering wheel rim and gearlever knob, white instrument faces and so on, the new two-litres have firmer suspension settings and wider tyres. Some of the suppleness of the less powerful versions has been sacrificed.Life's too short to go into the detail of the hilariously illogical progression of Scenic model range designations, but you can get the two-litre in Sport Alizé, RXE and leather-upholstered Monaco trim. At the top-level prices you might think it's all getting a bit much, but there's no arguing with a brilliantly packaged design whose production rate has been increased three times, and still doesn't match demand.Second opinion: When it first came out the Scenic wasn't just the market leader, it was the market. But when, during a mini-MPV frenzy a few weeks ago, I drove the Renault, the Vauxhall Zafira and the Mazda Premacy in quick succession, I found that the Scenic was the most van-like of the three, most obviously in terms of driving position. A typically clumsy gearchange didn't help its case either. Renault will have to give some thought to this, because the opposition is catching up. David Finlay. Engine 1998cc, 4 cylinders Power 140bhp Fuel 35.3mpg Acceleration 0-62mph: 9.9 seconds Top speed 122mph Price £16,400 Details correct at publication date
Our Rating
