The concept of Scenic is very simple: it is a mini-MPV, but unlike traditional MPV, it does not have a dedicated platform. Instead, it is derived from Megane hatchback to reduce cost and enable a car-like driving dynamics. By raising the roof dramatically, interior space is maximized. By raising the floor alongside more vertical seats, the cabin is less obstructed by the wheel arches, hence providing more usable space. The remaining work is to build in more storage cubbies and versatile seating plan. As a result, the Scenic drives more like a normal car than a van, cost just 10% in premium to the regular Megane while providing so much more comfort, versatility and fun for a family. 

However, today Scenic faces stiff competition thus can no longer rely on the above concept for survival, otherwise it could become just another "me-too" vehicle. To maintain its class-leading position, Renault did a lot of improvement to every area and packaged it like no other. From outside, you can see the Scenic II has a distinctive shape. The high-class grille, diamond-shape headlamps and taillights, the Megane-style pronounced tail, the strong shoulder line and many other carefully-styled details refreshes our eyes.  

Inside, the cabin has a quality feel even surpassing Volkswagen products. On the one hand, the soft-touch plastics and fine fabric all over the cabin feel expensive. On the other hand, the digital dashboard and center console look like no others, while the light color scheme makes the cabin light and airy.  

The cabin is also roomy. The 2685mm wheelbase is 60mm longer than Megane. It is also 30mm wider and 164mm taller, so all passengers should find abundance of space. As before, the 3 rear seats are independent, can slide, tilt and detach. In case only 2 people are at the back, take the center seat out and reposition the 2 outer seats towards the center will liberate more shoulder room for passengers. 

The regular Scenic is a 5-seater, but in case you need 7 seats, you can buy the long-wheelbase Grand Scenic. The 7-seater measures 230mm longer than the 5-seater, provides sufficient room to accommodate the third row of seats. This is a better solution than Volkswagen Touran and Opel Zafira, whose bodyshells are a compromise between 5-seater and 7-seater. 

Scenic II is derived from the Megane II platform, sharing the same suspensions, engines, running gears and steering. Although the rear suspension is just a torsion-beam axle, the Scenic II rides exceptionally supple and quiet, smoothening road irregularities and filtering noise from the cabin. This level of ride comfort is easily class-leading. Handling is also improved from the last generation. Although not up to the level of Zafira and Touran, it resists body roll quite well and is easy to control. What a pity the electric power steering - as in Megane - feels artificial and has too much self-centering force. 

The only aspect the new Scenic fails to match its predecessor is performance, because it grew heavier. Take the 2.0-litre petrol for example, it lost 4 horsepower due to Euro IV emission compliance while the new car carries an extra 110kg. This makes the 1.9dCi turbo diesel engine more attractive. Not only torquey, it is also very smooth and refined, even more so than the petrol engines. Mating with the slick 6-speed gearbox, the Scenic 1.9dCi is definitely the best mini-MPV currently on sale. So comfortable, so refined, so expensive it feels, it is a premium mini-MPV.