Skip advert
Advertisement

Renault Grand Modus (2008-2012) review

The Renault Grand Modus is a worthy addition to the range.

Overall Auto Express rating

1.0

How we review cars
Find your Renault Modus
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

Driving
Light but responsive steering and a slick five-speed gearbox mean the Grand Modus is perfect for nipping around town. The ride is smooth and comfortable, and while the car is unsettled by really big bumps, for the most part it is easy to drive and uncomplicated. The key engine is the 1.2-litre TCE, a 100bhp turbo petrol engine. This replaced the old 1.4-litre – yet while it offers decent pace and economy, in our experience the larger 1.5-litre dCi diesels offer even lower consumption, while providing even more shove throughout the rev range.

Marketplace
The Grand Modus has grown up, and promises to put right the wrongs of its smaller sibling, for a premium of £600 over the base car. It was launched with a facelifted version of the original car in early 2008, taking inspiration from Grand versions of the Espace and Scenic – offering a bigger boot and more practical seating. It has similar styling to the standard car, so received new headlights and other tweaks with the 2008 facelift. Two trims are available, Expression and Dynamique, with a choice of five engines; the 1.2-litre petrol in non-turbo and TCE turbo form, an auto-only 1.6-litre, plus 1.5 dCi diesels in 86 and 106 guise. The dCi 86 can be mated to a ‘Quickshift5’ semi-auto gearbox.

Owning
By adding 93mm to the wheelbase and 160mm to the length, Renault had given the Grand extra space in the rear, meaning three can fit comfortably. There is 117 litres more boot space, boosted to 1,454 litres when the sliding rear bench is folded flat. The cabin is basic but well built, with lots of clever storage spaces and an elevated driving position that offers good visibility. All Grand Modus variants have standard air con, helping keep the glassy cabin cool. However, while it’s well-equipped and decent value – as well as being more practical than the standard car – the Grand Modus still suffers from the unimpressive retained values of the standard car. For best returns after three years, go for the diesels, which may cost more but also return excellent fuel economy figures of over 60mpg on the official cycle.

Engines, performance and drive

MPG, CO2 and Running Costs

Interior, design and technology

Practicality, comfort and boot space

Reliability and Safety

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £7,362 off RRP*Used from £11,990
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,921 off RRP*Used from £8,952
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £14,480Avg. savings £1,864 off RRP*Used from £6,700
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,038 off RRP*Used from £13,157
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports
MST Ford Escort - front 3/4

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports

While not officially Fords, the MST Mk1 and Mk2 Sports should drive as sharply as they look
News
7 Jul 2025
New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Hot Volkswagen Golf GTI for a cool £287 a month
Volkswagen Golf GTI - front cornering left 1

Car Deal of the Day: Hot Volkswagen Golf GTI for a cool £287 a month

The Golf GTI has been a classic from day one – and it’s our Deal of the Day for 8 July.
News
8 Jul 2025