CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 43.8%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 120
Average Price: Around £5,150

Renault Scenic (2016-2019) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Efficient engines mean low running costs	Not as spacious as you'd hope
More stylish than most traditional MPVs	Dull to drive
Impressive safety rating	Build quality less than impressive

Quick Summary

The Renault Scenic (2016-2019) is a stylish compact MPV that looks far better than its rivals, with swoopy styling, muscular detailing, and modern crossover elements. Inside, the smart touchscreen-centred interior offers abundant storage with covered cubbies throughout. However, the Scenic falls short in practicality; the raised floor reduces rear legroom, making passengers feel cramped, and the rear seats lack individual movement and versatile folding options. Build quality is inconsistent, with cheaper plastics evident in lower sections, giving an impression of cost-cutting.

On the road, the Scenic prioritises comfort over engagement. The soft suspension smooths most bumps but creates excessive body roll in corners, whilst the numb steering and gutless engines make it uninviting to drive with pace. Running costs are competitive, with diesel models achieving 50-60mpg and petrol versions 40-45mpg. The rare Hybrid Assist diesel offers exceptional economy exceeding 65mpg. Maintenance is affordable through Renault's competitive service pricing, and most engines feature timing chains, though the 1.5 dCi 110 requires belt replacement every six years or 90,000 miles at around £500.

Best for: Style-conscious buyers seeking an attractive MPV, families prioritising low running costs, and those valuing safety credentials with its five-star crash test rating.

Not ideal for: Buyers needing maximum interior space, those seeking engaging driving dynamics, or those expecting premium build quality throughout the cabin.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Scenic if: You prioritise style and low running costs, seek an attractive MPV with strong safety credentials, and value abundant storage solutions.

Consider alternatives if: You need maximum interior space, desire engaging driving dynamics, or expect consistent premium build quality throughout.

Competitive Position: The Renault Scenic (2016-2019) stands out for its striking styling and efficient engines, making it appealing to style-conscious buyers. However, rivals like the Citroën C4 Picasso and Volkswagen Touran offer superior practicality, better driving experiences, and more consistent build quality. Whilst the Scenic's low running costs and safety rating are commendable, its cramped rear accommodation and uninspiring driving dynamics make it a difficult recommendation compared to better-rounded competitors in the compact MPV segment.

Read our full Renault Scenic Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.