Is the Renault Scenic E-Tech Still a Standout in the Crowded EV Market?
What Makes the Renault Scenic E-Tech Different From Its Predecessors?
If you’ve been following the evolution of the Renault Scenic, you’ll know it’s come a long way from its days as a practical MPV. The latest generation has shed its people-carrier roots and now stands as a large, five-seat electric hatchback—think of it as a stretched, taller Megane with a fresh, modern vibe. This shift is more than just a badge update; it’s a complete reimagining for a new era of family cars.
The Scenic’s transformation isn’t just about looks. It’s now available with two battery options: a 60kWh pack offering up to 260 miles of range, and a beefier 87kWh version that claims up to 379 miles (in its most efficient trim). Both are front-wheel drive, with the larger battery model delivering a punchy 215bhp. Charging speeds are competitive, too, topping out at 150kW on the bigger battery. In a segment where range anxiety is still a hot topic, these numbers put the Scenic right up there with the best.
How Does the Scenic Stack Up Against Its Rivals?
Let’s be honest: the mid-size electric crossover market is packed. In 2024 alone, the Scenic went head-to-head with heavyweights like the Peugeot 3008 and Volvo EX30—and came out on top, clinching the coveted Car of the Year title from a 60-strong pan-European jury. That win surprised even some at Renault, especially since the brand’s major EV push was expected to come later with the Renault 5.
But the Scenic’s victory wasn’t a fluke. It stood out for both rational and emotional reasons. On paper, it’s one of the rangiest electric cars in its class. In practice, it’s a car that feels easy to live with—comfortable, refined, and refreshingly straightforward. The Google-based infotainment system, running on a crisp 12-inch portrait screen, is a highlight, offering seamless integration with features like Apple CarPlay and Waze navigation.
Of course, it’s not all roses. The Scenic’s ride can get a bit choppy on the larger 20-inch wheels, and some software bugs have cropped up—more on that in a bit. But overall, it’s a car that blends practicality with a bit of flair, inside and out.
What’s the Real-World Range Like—And Does Weather Matter?
Here’s where things get interesting. While the official range figures are impressive, real-world results can vary—sometimes dramatically. On an 800-mile round trip to Belgium, the Scenic’s range dropped to around 220 miles in snowy, cold conditions, a far cry from the claimed 369 miles. That’s not unique to Renault; most EVs see their range shrink in winter. But our tests and owner reports suggest the Scenic is particularly sensitive to high-speed driving and cold weather.
In milder temperatures, the story improves. On mixed roads in warmer weather, it’s possible to get close to 340 miles on a full charge. The car’s driver display helpfully shows both maximum and minimum range estimates, so you’re rarely caught off guard. Charging performance is solid, too, with speeds reliably near the 150kW mark, making long-distance travel surprisingly stress-free.
Are There Any Everyday Annoyances or Hidden Perks?
No car is perfect, and the Scenic is no exception. Some quirks have surfaced during extended testing and from owner feedback. For instance, the driver’s window can rattle after being lowered, and the traffic sign recognition system has a habit of going blank. The memory seats sometimes forget their settings, and Apple CarPlay voice control can be glitchy—an issue that seems tied to the Google-based infotainment software.
Yet, for every niggle, there’s a thoughtful touch. The light fabric trim keeps seats cool in summer, and the air purifier function is a godsend for hay fever sufferers. The regenerative braking system remembers your last setting, unlike some rivals that reset every time you restart the car. And while the Scenic’s ride is smoother on smaller wheels, even the top-spec Iconic trim (with its panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, and massaging driver’s seat) offers a compelling package.
How Does the Scenic Compare to Other Mainstream EVs?
The Scenic isn’t alone in this space. Nearly every major brand now offers a raised, four-and-a-half-metre-long electric hatchback with a big battery and a 300-mile-plus range. We’ve driven the Skoda Elroq, for example, which edges out the Scenic for driving fluency and refinement but falls short in interior character and design. The Scenic’s cabin feels genuinely fresh and inviting—a rare feat in a segment that often leans toward the bland.
Owners echo this sentiment. Many love the Scenic’s range, comfort, and ease of use, even if they have a list of suggested improvements: illuminated charging ports, better app stability, and more intuitive controls. Some wish for steering wheel buttons instead of the old-school column-mounted stereo controller. But the overall tone is positive—most would happily consider another Scenic when their lease is up.
What’s the Ownership Experience Like—Any Surprises After a Year?
Living with the Scenic over the long haul reveals both its strengths and its growing pains. Service intervals are reasonable (one year or 18,000 miles), and routine maintenance has been straightforward. The air filter, for example, does a stellar job of keeping pollen at bay—a small detail, but one that makes a real difference for allergy sufferers.
Software updates have brought new features, like Waze integration in the instrument display, but haven’t fixed every bug. Some owners have reported issues with the My Renault app and the lack of a low washer fluid warning. Build quality is generally solid, though the odd rattle or glitch does crop up.
It’s also worth noting that the Scenic’s appeal hasn’t faded with time. Even 18 months after launch—a lifetime in the fast-moving EV world—it still feels fresh and competitive. That’s no small feat, given how quickly new models arrive and how high the bar has been set.
Is the Scenic E-Tech the Right Choice for You?
Choosing an EV in 2024 is a bit like picking your favorite flavor at an ice cream shop—there are plenty of good options, and the best one depends on your taste. The Scenic E-Tech stands out for its blend of range, comfort, and design. It’s not the sportiest to drive, nor is it entirely free of quirks, but it nails the basics and adds a few thoughtful extras.
If you value a spacious, modern interior, a user-friendly tech setup, and a car that feels genuinely easy to live with, the Scenic deserves a spot on your shortlist. The class still awaits its undisputed champion, but the Scenic remains one of the most well-rounded contenders—especially if you can snag a good deal from a dealer you trust.
The bottom line? The Renault Scenic E-Tech may not be perfect, but it’s proof that even in a crowded field, there’s still room for a car with character, comfort, and a dash of everyday magic. And isn’t that what family cars are all about?