A decade ago, I used to fancy Hatchbacks because they are small, practical, and rather efficient. As I move on later in life, Hatchbacks are no longer practical because they just can’t fit everybody inside. While Sedans are more spacious and have a bigger boot space, they too can only accommodate a maximum of 4 passengers and 1 driver.
This is where MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) / 7-seater cars have an edge in the automotive scene.
In recent times, It seems to me that there is a surge of people driving MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) / 7-seater cars and very often, I ask myself this rhetorical question, “How often do all these seats get occupied?”. When an airline opens a new route or operates an existing flight, every seat is measured in dollars and cents. Similarly, I often wonder what is the benefit-cost ratio of driving a 7-seater and what I should be looking out for if I were to buy one.
I have driven and sat in a couple of 7-seaters and they include the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso, Volvo XC40, Toyota Vellfire, Kia Carnival, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienta, and more recently, the Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition). Now, all of them have got its own set of pros and cons and in this article, I will be sharing about my driving experience with the Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) and what I think about it.
Design
Traditionally, MPVs/7-seater tend to be rather boxy in shape but in recent times, they have become rounder and more curvy. Even then, if you were to compare the designs of the different MPVs/7-seater in the market, you would notice that the continental ones tend to be more stylish and tastefully designed. However, preferences for style and design can be rather subjective because it depends very much on the individual.
Is the Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) a head-turner? Probably yes but in fact, most MPVs aren’t; at least unlike the coupes, convertibles and SUVs. However, the Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) does make the driver feel good because of its big profile and it’s distinct badge at the front.
Stylishly designed and sporting a bold and dynamic appeal with its sculpted lines, striking dual-tone paintwork, sculpted C-shaped LED daytime-running lights and hallmark rear 3D LED Edge Lights, the design of the Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) is definitely one of its kind.
Comfort & Convenience
The Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) has a couple of features that would make the driving experience very comfortable and convenient.
Some of the features include the handsfree key card with walk-away auto lock, the BOSE premium sound system, the ample number of storage compartments, and the front-row electric memory seats with massage function.
Now, what I really like about the Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) would be the BOSE premium sound system because it just makes the driving experience feel more upbeat when I leave home to work and vice-versa. Having said that, I personally feel that the massage function on the electric memory seats is quite an overkill unless you have to drive for long hours/long distances to Malaysia on a regular basis.
From a passenger’s perspective, one thing that I dislike about the Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) in terms of comfort would be the last row of seats. They are pretty tight and cram and would probably be more comfortable and suitable for children than adults.
Safety
The Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) is packed with lots of safety features and that includes the Blind Spot Monitoring System Electronic Stability Control, Anti-Slip Regulation Traction Control, Hill Start Assist, 6 airbags (front, side and curtain), and Isofix child seat and anchorage points.
Though Handsfree Auto-Park Assist (perpendicular, parallel and diagonal park assist modes) is also available, I prefer to trust my own judgement (pretty much the same reason why pilots do take-offs and landings manually) than to rely on the Handsfree Auto-Park Assist.
Driving Performance
The Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) is mated to a 1.5L turbo diesel engine with 260Nm of torque and a 7-speed Efficient Dual Clutch gearbox. Because of the diesel-powered engine, running costs would definitely be way cheaper than a petrol-powered car. Speed pick-up from standstill is a breeze but not so at the higher speed range; hence overtaking and cornering at the start would be more ideal.
Features
One feature of Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) that I also like is the retractable full-colour heads up display that displays all the relevant information that I need to know; including current speed, navigation commands, and driving aid instructions. These information are displayed comfortably within my line of sight and can be adjusted higher or lower as required.
What I Wish The Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) Would Have
While the Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) packs a bunch of features such as a smart sliding centre console, a premium BOSE sound system which consist of 11 speakers and subwoofer, electric front seats with massage functions, and many more; I really do wish that the 7-seater would have other wonderful features such as an automatic power sliding door for the passengers and an automatic open/close car boot/trunk system. After all, most MPVs in the market have this added feature.
Overall
The MPV/7-seater market is a very competitive one and where the Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) would stand out is its design and extra mileage per dollar. If design and lower operating costs are at the top of your list, the Renault Grand Scenic (Bose Edition) is a perfect choice.
