WHAT'S NEW? Some subtle tweaks to the exterior, revised, higher-quality interior, and a wider choice of engines and options. The new engine, already sampled by us in the Laguna, is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. The interior feels good, with soft-touch plastics, and seats which offer excellent back support. Outside, changes include slimmer, tapered headlamps and revised rear light clusters.
WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS? The Megane boasts five body styles, with five trim levels - Extreme, Authentique, Expression, Dynamique, and Privilege.
The Scenic Privilege I drove had loads of top spec stuff, including climate control, smart windscreen wipers, parking sensors and hands-free card entry, rather than a conventional key.
Believe me, it really does come in handy when your hands are full of the dreaded shopping.
WHO IS IT FOR? With an ample amount of interior space fore and aft, lots of clever storage areas, seats that fold every which-way and a capacious boot, it's a well-thought-out family car. It also has sophisticated exterior lines, so it should appeal to people who savour style but need practicality.
WHAT'S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? The turbo-enhanced engine is super smooth and very quiet, with loads of evenly-delivered mid-range power, while the gearbox is easy and positive. The slightly elevated driving position inspires confidence, while handling is assured - with good cornering characteristics - while dash layout is clear and logical, with all controls falling easily to hand.
WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW? The car feels exceptionally well-sorted and has a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. There have been many imitators since Renault kicked off this particular genre, but the Megane Scenic feels like the real deal.
WHAT WOULD MAKE YOU BUY ONE? An eye for sophistication in areas from technology through to trim.
And the on-the-road experience will reward drivers who want practicality without sacrificing good handling. The new diesel engine was frugal on fuel, so there's value-for-money appeal, too.
MARKS OUT OF 10: Eight.
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