Renault Scenic

The new Scenic Conquest has the styling additions and commanding visibility of a compact SUV, without the penalties usually associated with running a four-wheel drive. Great economy and low emissions boost its overall appeal. The trouble is, limited off-road ability and a high price tag make this Renault a rather expensive alternative to a conventional people carrier.

People carriers have got it tough. Despite their impressive practicality, the versatility and space they offer is being matched by estates, SUVs and even van-based family cars.

But now, Renault is fighting back with a rugged-looking MPV which thinks it’s a 4x4. Called the Scenic Conquest, it’s loosely described as a successor to the RX4 – a beefed-up version of the old Scenic, complete with four-wheel drive. That car hardly set the sales charts alight, so will the new offering fare any better?

While the MPV doesn’t feature all-wheel drive, you are unlikely to mistake it for a run-of-the-mill Renault. At the front, black bumpers and a chrome-finished skid plate provide an off-road look, and there’s matching underbody protection at the rear.

Inside, the changes include some natty graphics on the centre console, as well as a leather steering wheel and gearlever. To give the Scenic some off-road ability, the revised suspension raises ground clearance by 20mm. However, the MPV is likely to spend most of its time on the road, and with the top-of-the-range 2.0-litre diesel engine under the bonnet, it delivers strong performance. There’s 128bhp and 300Nm of torque at 2,000rpm which, combined with the six-speed box, gives the Renault serious pace; it covers 0-62mph in 9.6 seconds.

Fuel economy is also impressive, at 47.1mpg, and it’s backed up by CO2 emissions of 160g/km. The MPV is also available with a 2.0-litre petrol unit, priced at £17,945; the diesel variant driven here will set you back a hefty £19,135. But unless you really need the Conquest’s extra ground clearance or want the rugged styling, the Ford S-MAX 2.0 TDCi is better value – and it comes with an extra pair of seats.

Rival: Skoda Octavia Scout Off-road looks and a raised ride height aren’t just for show on the Ocatvia, as this 4WD estate is a practical, go-anywhere family car. And at £19,675, it’s only slightly more expensive than the Renault.