This affordable family car with a huge range is a potential bestseller

Renault is going full throttle to get the ideal offer into the showrooms as quickly as possible. After the all-electric Megane, it’s time for the Scenic E-Tech Electric.

What’s in a name? Not so long ago, anyone who said that they drove a Scenic was soon considered a practical father, because the Scenic had made a name for itself as a practical family van. But just like with the Espace, the type name has taken on a completely different meaning.

No more MPVs

Both vans, sorry, MPVs or MPVs no longer exist. Overtaken by SUVs or something similar. But in order to avoid SUV envy, Renault does not call its newcomer a sports utility vehicle, but rather a crossover. Because they emphasize that the height of 1.57 meters is below the average SUV level. The developers are clear about the choice of segment: The new Renault Scenic Electric targets the heart of the C segment. And because other brands are less clear about the dividing line between SUVs and crossovers, both types are part of the competition, meaning there’s a big pond for customers to fish.

Together with the B segment, you serve the masses. Since Renault does not yet have a fully electric SUV in the B segment, this Scenic in the C segment, along with the Megane, will have to attract customers to an electric vehicle. And this Scenic is a complement to the Megane, which can be considered more of a large hatchback with less space in the back.

The Renault Scenic is larger than average

Speaking of size: Due to its size, this Renault Scenic can better fulfill its role as an all-rounder. The overall length of 4.47 meters is not bad, but the wheelbase of 279 cm is above average for this class. This not only allows for a spacious interior, but also a large luggage compartment of no less than 545 liters. And now that we’re juggling numbers, I’ll get straight to the crucial numbers in this class of electric cars. Because what are we talking about when we talk about range and battery capacity?

The Scenic with the basic battery (which Renault calls the Comfort range) has a capacity of 60 kWh, like the Mégane, always has a 22 kW on-board charger with heat pump on board as standard and can be operated at a fast charging speed of up to 130 kW. In this configuration, its range is 420 km according to the WLTP standard. Excellent values ​​that allow this Renault to compete well on the market.

That’s what the Renault Scenic costs

The provisional starting price, which is currently stated with reservations, is 40,000 euros. Not a very competitive price considering the electrical performance, but considering the size it’s a good deal. Like many brands, Renault is pursuing a two-battery strategy with this model and is therefore also available in a long-range version with an 87 kWh battery. It can fast charge with a maximum of 150 kW and is said to have a range of 625 km. The 200 km more range certainly justifies the additional price of 5,000 euros for this version, even if you look at what the competition is charging for such upgrades.