Renault's 1.3-liter turbo engine just became available in the Scenic MPV, and a launch event was organized in Italy. There, we got to sample some real-world photos of the awesome metallic purple paint.
Officially, the color is known as Amethyst, and it's such a refreshing alternative to dull silver. Even Renault's costly gold finish pales in comparison. Unfortunately, it's only available at the top of the model range, where the Initiale Paris trim resides. So you will be paying at least €30,000 for the car.
At the end of the day, the Scenic is just an MPV, an increasingly unpopular segment in Europe, as SUVs start to take over. But as yourself this: are you going to take the Kadjar crossover somewhere this family car can't go?
So what about the engine? Well, the 1.3-liter turbo replaces the 1.2-liter that came before. Three power outputs are offered. The lowest is 115 HP and will available only with a 6-speed manual, while the 140 and 160 HP models will have the EDC automatic option. Compared to the TCe 130, which was a 1.2-liter, the TCe 140 also packs 35 Nm of extra torque.
The Energy TCe 160 engine offers a maximum torque of 260 Nm in the manual and 270 Nm in EDC form. It will do 100 km/h (62 mph) in 9.1 seconds. If you're after even more miles to the gallon, go for the dCi 110 Hybrid Assist versions. Here, the normal 4-cylinder is accompanied by a 10kW electric motor that is powered by a 48-volt 150Wh battery located behind the 2nd-row seats.
Wih 110 HP and 260 Nm, this engine takes a more leisurely 12.9 seconds to reach 100 km/h. However, it comes with the peace of mind of knowing you won't be banned from entering major European cities any time soon.
The Scenic is our favorite European MPV because of its colossal 20-inch wheels. The design has aged so much better than the Citroen model. But, of course, it might be discontinued in three or four years.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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