Checking Out the Renault Scénic, Fourth Generation: TÜV Still Not Impressed
Fourth Generation Renault Scénic: Continued Non-Leading Position in Market
When it comes to used vehicles, a practical option for transporting both kids and adults is a van. The Renault Scénic, in its fourth generation, fits the bill - but is it reliable?
The Scénic has been a mainstay in Renault's lineup for nearly three decades, and it was produced from late 2016 to 2023. The fifth generation, electrified, is now available.
Quality Concerns
The TÜV's evaluations of the Scénic IV have a mixed report card. While improvements are noticeable compared to the third generation, there are still areas to watch out for, especially the suspension and lighting system. Heavy vans and SUVs commonly struggle with axle suspension, as the Scénic IV does.
Body and Interior
Renault gave the compact van a sleek design, particularly accentuated by the standard 20-inch wheels. The Scénic was offered as a 4.41-meter-long five-seater (until 2022) and a 4.64-meter-long Grand version, seating up to seven people. With a wheelbase of 2.73 meters, the Scénic offers generous interior space. The rear bench seat can slide 16 centimeters longitudinally for more legroom or cargo space. The cargo volume ranges between 505 and 572 liters, and up to 1,554 liters when the rear seats are folded down. In the Grand Scénic, the cargo volume varies between 718 and 1,900 liters. A subtle facelift in 2020 refreshed the front design.
Engines and Powertrain
At launch, a 1.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine was available in two power outputs: 85 kW/115 PS and 97 kW/132 PS. This engine was replaced by a 1.3-liter turbo option, offered with 115 PS, 103 kW/140 PS, and 120 kW/160 PS. Gasoline engines have consumption ratings between 5.4 and 6 liters. The diesel lineup consisted of a 1.5-liter engine with 81 kW/110 PS and a 1.6-liter engine with 96 kW/130 PS and 118 kW/160 PS. A diesel mild hybrid version, available between 2017 and 2018, was the most fuel-efficient, with an average consumption of 3.4 liters. The other diesel engines consume between 3.9 and 4.5 liters. In early 2019, Renault introduced a 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine, providing 88 kW/120 PS or 110 kW/150 PS. Since late 2020, the Scénic is only offered with gasoline engines.
Transmission options include a manual six-speed gearbox as standard, with seven-speed or six-speed dual-clutch transmissions for the 160 PS engines.
Features and Safety
The base trim (Life) focused on basic features such as air conditioning, DAB radio, emergency braking assist, cruise control, and traffic sign recognition. More comfortable trim levels (Experience, Intens) added keyless entry, an adjustable center armrest, parking assist, lane keep assist, and a large touchscreen infotainment system. The top trim (Bose Edition) offered a navigation system, heated front seats, and a Bose surround sound system. Post-facelift, the trim levels were renamed Zen, Intens, and Black Edition.
The Final Verdict
The fourth generation Scénic is still worth considering for its practical benefits, such as versatility in passenger or cargo transport. Currently, around 500 used models of the Scénic IV are available on mobile.de, starting at around 10,000 euros. As always, it's advisable to have a professional inspect your desired model before finalizing the deal.
[1] TÜV Report 2025 (Broad reliability coverage for makes and models produced in 2017 and 2018, without specific focus on the fourth generation Renault Scénic and its technical weaknesses).
- For those seeking a used vehicle suitable for both lifestyle and family needs, the fourth generation Renault Scénic can be a viable option, offering ample space for passengers and cargo.
- Maintaining a Scénic may require attention to its suspension and lighting system, as reported by TÜV, which could impact the overall ownership experience for car-maintenance enthusiasts.
- If you're considering electric vehicles or have a fondness for sports cars, you might want to look elsewhere, as the Renault Scénic's focus is more on practicality rather than performance or efficiency.
