Why You Should Consider the Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric: A Stylish, Spacious, and Efficient Electric SUV

The Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric is the latest addition to the French automaker’s growing lineup of electric vehicles. It is also the first model to use the Scenic nameplate since the previous generation of the compact MPV was discontinued in 2019. But don’t let the name fool you: the new Scenic E-Tech Electric is not a van but a stylish and spacious crossover that aims to challenge the likes of the Peugeot e-2008, the Volkswagen ID.4, and the Tesla Model Y in the competitive segment of compact electric SUVs.

The Scenic E-Tech Electric is based on the same CMF-EV platform as the Renault Megane E-Tech Electric and the Nissan Ariya, which means it benefits from a flat floor, a long wheelbase, and a low center of gravity. It also shares some of its platform siblings' design cues and features, such as the slim LED headlights, the large touchscreen infotainment system, and the digital instrument cluster. However, the Scenic E-Tech Electric has its distinctive personality, thanks to its sleek and dynamic silhouette, bold front grille with a prominent Renault logo, and unique rear light signature that spans across the tailgate.

The Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric will be available in two powertrain options, both featuring a front-mounted electric motor that does not require rare earths. The standard range version will have a 60 kWh battery pack that can deliver up to 260 miles (420 km) of WLTP range and a 170 hp (125 kW) motor that can propel the SUV from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 9.3 seconds and up to a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h). The high-range version will have an 87 kWh battery pack that can offer up to 385 miles (620 km) of WLTP range and a 220 hp (160 kW) motor that can accelerate the SUV from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 8.4 seconds and up to a top speed of 105 mph (170 km/h).

Both versions will support fast charging at up to 130 kW and 150 kW, respectively, which means they can replenish up to 80% of their battery capacity in less than an hour. They will also come with a standard 22 kW onboard charger for AC charging, which can fully charge the battery in about three hours for the standard-range version and five hours for the high-range version. Additionally, both versions will feature a heat pump and a battery pre-conditioning system that can optimize the vehicle's thermal management and energy efficiency.

The Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric will offer plenty of room for five passengers and their luggage, thanks to its generous dimensions and clever packaging. The electric SUV measures 4.47 meters (176 inches) in length, 1.86 meters (73 inches) in width, and 1.57 meters (62 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 2.79 meters (110 inches). The rear legroom is estimated at 27.8 centimeters (11 inches), and the headroom at up to 88.4 centimeters (35 inches). The trunk capacity ranges from 545 liters (19 cubic feet) to 1,607 liters (57 cubic feet), depending on the position of the sliding rear seats.

The interior of the Scenic E-Tech Electric will also boast a high level of comfort and technology, with premium materials and finishes, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a panoramic glass roof that can filter out UV rays and heat. The dashboard will feature a 12-inch digital instrument cluster that can display various driving information and navigation maps and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system that can run Android Automotive OS with Google services and apps. The SUV will also offer a range of advanced driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, parking assist, and more.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Scenic E-Tech Electric is its commitment to sustainability and circular economy. The electric SUV will be made with up to 80% recycled materials for its dashboard structure, 26% recycled materials for its cockpit, carpets made from 97% recycled plastic bottles, headlining made from 99.5% recycled plastic bottles, and no leather anywhere. The hood and doors will be made from up to 40% recycled aluminum, while 37% of the ferrous components will be made from recycled materials. Moreover, Renault will implement a closed-loop system where waste material will be sorted, compacted, and sent back to the supplier for reuse.

The Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric is expected to go on sale in Europe in early 2024, with prices starting from around $40,000 for the standard range version and $50,000 for the high-range version. The SUV will be produced at Renault’s Douai ElectricCity Factory in France, which is part of the company’s ambitious plan to become a leader in electrification and mobility services by 2030. With its attractive design, spacious interior, efficient performance and eco-friendly credentials, the Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric is destined to become one of the most attractive and competitive offerings in its segment and a worthy successor to the Scenic name.