1 Feb 2005
RENAULT’S second-generation Scenic II ‘mini’ people-mover arrived in early 2005.
Three models were introduced – the base Authentique, mid-range Expression and flagship Dynamique.
The only options were metallic paint and a ‘panoramic’ sunroof for the Dynamique. This time Renault did not bother producing an RX4 four-wheel drive version.
Like the previous model, which at times was Renault’s biggest seller in Australia, the Scenic II is a five-door, five-seater hatch-cum-wagon.
All models are powered by a 98kW/191Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder, this time mated to either a six-speed manual or four-speed Proactive automatic.
Standard equipment includes air-conditioning, cruise control, front power windows/mirrors, in-dash CD player with remote audio controls and flexible rear seating.
There’s also the leading-edge safety equipment that helped Scenic II score a maximum five-star EuroNCAP crash rating. These include dual front and side airbags, curtain airbags, front and rear seatbelt pretensioners, ABS with EBD and brake assist.
In the latter half of 2006 the Scenic II was followed up by a stretched, seven-seat version dubbed Grand Scenic.
In February 2008, a diesel-engined model was added to the line-up in the form of the Scenic dCi, powered by a 1.9-litre common rail turbo-diesel engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.
Although its 96kW of power at 4250rpm is comparable with the 2.0-litre petrol’s 98kW at 5500rpm, its 250Nm of torque at 1600rpm blows away the petrol alternative’s 191kW at 3750rpm, making it much more suitable for hauling the extra people and cargo for which it is designed.
And fuel consumption is is more than 14 per cent better while carbon-dioxide emissions are more than eight per cent lower.
