Renault takes a Scenic route








Following the leaked images of the Megane hatchback and coupe, the Megane based minivan, Scenic, has been spied completely undisguised in a Renault factory in France and a road-going prototype wearing heavy camouflage caught undergoing warm-weather/altitude testing in Southern Spain.

Like the current Scenic, the next model will be offered in 2 sizes; Scenic which will be a 5 seater and the 7-seater Grand Scenic. Expect an pseudo SUV based on the Scenic to arrive later on in 2011.

Styling wise, Renault seems to be stuck in conventional mode. The overall styling of both vehicles seem to be very clean and conventional, which first featured on the Twingo then the Laguna, and will be followed by the Megane. The scanned photos show how the 5-seater and 7-seater will receive different tail-lights. While the Grand Scenic has the lower section of the rear lights facing outwards, the Scenic will have boot-lid mounted lights. Following in the tracks of the Laguna and Laguna Coupe, the newcomer will have feature LED rear-lights.

The interior will be more upmarket unlike the current model and materials such as soft-touch plastics will be used to give the minivan a premium feel. The Scenic will also boast more storage compartments than ever before with the rear seats having an ability to fold flat.

Engines will be taken from the Megane range and are set to be more reliable than the current model, which suffered from numerous engine and electrical niggles. Expect the new Scenic to be unveiled at the Paris motorshow in October, alongside the Megane before going on sale in early 2009.

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