Renault Grand Scenic (2009 - 2016) 1.5 dCi (110bhp) Dynamique TomTom 5d EDC (2011/60) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I need something as safe as a Volvo estate, with the practicality (and more) of a Volvo estate, for all the same reasons you need a Volvo estate, without the purchase or running costs of a Volvo estate - nice as they are.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

The vehicle is understood by friends, popular with family, ignored by neighbours and mocked by colleagues. But we didn't buy the vehicle for them.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, I would buy this car again if I needed a similar vehicle for similar reasons and I was in similar circumstances in my life. Naturally I would prefer to buy a Porsche, but this is the real world.

What are you likely to buy next?

Not likely to replace the vehicle until it has completed (read exhausted) its working life. If family reasons dictate, in ten years or so, a larger version of a similar type of vehicle would seem sensible: a Renault Grand Espace, Hyundai i800, Mercedes Viano, Volkswagen Caravelle or equivalent - but that is long off. A (welcome but unlikely) lottery win would bring a Porsche Boxster S which I would prefer.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£16,500

When did you buy the car?

January 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Purchased from Motorpoint Glasgow. Absolutely no room for negotiation whatsoever on price, likewise absolutely no room for negotiation whatsoever on mats / flaps / tax / fuel but the price we paid was the best available nationally at the time; so in answer to the question: 'we got a good deal' - but a good deal can always be better.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Wanted safe, practical, reliable, economical, spacious family transport.

What was the dealer like?

Purchased from Motorpoint Glasgow. Dealer was smart and professional. No pressure to buy because they know they have the best price going and if you don't buy the car someone else will. Had to request (wasn't offered) a private room to discuss payment. Absolutely no room for negotiation whatsoever on price, likewise absolutely no room for negotiation whatsoever on mats / flaps / tax / fuel but the price we paid was the best available nationally at the time. A pleasant experience.

What's it like to drive?

This will never be a Ferrari, nor a Porsche so it is silly to compare it in these terms. In it's class, and comparing it to rivals such as Zafira, S-Max, Grand C4 Picasso, Orlando, Touran and 5008 it is excellent. The vehicle is extremely stable at all speeds and in all conditions cruising competently at any U.K. road legal speed. Composed and comfortable ride. We tried the semi (read 'fake') automatic options (EGS) offered by Citroen and Peugeot and were very disappointed. This is a true 6 speed automatic, with dual clutches, like the Volkswagen DSG system and provides excellent, seamless gear changes. The engine is extremely surprising and has a loyal and capable thrum which never refuses to provide a little more power than you expect it will. Corners can be tackled with a grin.

What's it like to park?

Visibility is excellent, the rear window is where the back of the vehicle is and manoeuvrability is excellent: the nose is shorter than you think. However, this is undeniably a larger vehicle and a degree of competence and spacial awareness is necessary to park it. To answer the question: 'What's it like to park': harder than our Fiat Panda, but easier than a Toyota Landcruiser V8.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Fault from the point of manufacture with rear heated windscreen. Replaced under warranty but not without extensive duress and four visits to Arnold Clark Renault franchise Dundee. Otherwise trouble free.

What's most practical about your car?

This is the car's ace card. Practicality is the design basis for the vehicle. The storage spaces, compartments, lockers and flexibility of the seating and space is truly excellent. Every access point (doors / boot) is large and practical. Excellent space in the cabin, great visibility, high ride, large windows, deep door bins, practical surfaces and sensible family design throughout.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The TFT Colour VDU is very high quality and offers quick and accurate access to all the relevant information on the car at a glance.