Renault has released details of its forthcoming crossover, the Scenic XMOD. The new model will be sold alongside the existing five-seat Scenic though it has yet to be confirmed for sale in Ireland .
Exterior
As the Scenic XMOD is a crossover, Renault has done away with the MPV-looks of the current Scenic. The new model features a higher ride height and improved ground clearance, with new front and rear bumpers, sill guards and chrome roof bars to complete the crossover image. The new front grille, larger badge and LED daytime running lights also introduce Renault's latest design language.
To mark the launch of the new model, Renault has facelifted the Scenic and Grand Scenic, too. The Grand Scenic comes restyled with a larger front badge set against a gloss-black background, which in turn sits on a new front grille.
Interior
Although the XMOD has changed shape, its versatility remains. A boot volume of 555 litres is complemented by an extra 71 litres worth of cubby holes dotted around the car. Independent, removable seating should make fitting larger items easy as well.
In terms of technology, a customisable, seven-inch Renault R-Link touchscreen infotainment system takes up most of the dashboard space. It is linked to a Bose sound system on higher grade models. Top spec versions of the Scenic XMOD come with a flat-bottomed steering wheel, an aluminium gear stick cap and aluminium pedals.
Mechanicals
The Scenic XMOD is the first vehicle to feature Renault's new 'Grip Xtend' system. The new traction control system can be set in three different modes - Road, Expert and Loose Ground - and is designed to provide assistance when the going gets slippery. The Loose Ground setting maintains engine torque and braking distribution, while Expert manages the brakes only. Road is automatically selected at speeds over 40km/h. Each mode can be selected independently via a toggle switch on the dashboard.
As well as this, Renault is equipping the Scenic XMOD with its latest TCe 130 Stop & Start Energy engine. The new powerplant is said to improve fuel economy by 15 per cent over the existing TCe 130 unit, without compromising on power or flexibility.
Anything else?
The new Scenic XMOD is set to have a world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March. An Irish release date has yet to be confirmed.