'Off-road' Scenic returns

Renault has revived the chunky look of its original four-wheel-drive MPV, axed in 2004, with a new Conquest version of the latest car - and it's on sale now.

Buyers get a choice of a £19,135 1.9-litre dCi 130 diesel, returning 47.1mpg, and a £17,945 2.0-litre VVT 136 petrol with 35.3mpg. Two more models will boost the range when they arrive in September.

The Conquest has stiffer suspension than the standard car and rides 20mm higher. It also boasts chunky rubbing strips, plus there are door sill guards and roof bars.

The interior is based on the five-seater Dynamique, but the Conquest gets unique orange flashes on the centre console, uphol­stery and gear­lever gaiter. As with other mod­els in the range, the rear seats can slide forwards and back, fold or be taken out completely. Options include a Cycle Pack, which comprises roof crossbars and a bike carrier.