I tested Renault’s Scenic EV – it’s a well-thought out family car packed with all you need but it doesn’t come cheap

UNLESS someone knows otherwise, I’m pretty sure Renault invented the pop-up picnic table.

Renault or Rolls-Royce? Hmmm.

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Let’s say Renault because they make cars for everyone, not just Lord Cravat.

But there was a slight issue. They were useless.

Everything would slide off, or was too heavy and the tray would collapse.

Either way, all your stuff was going on the floor – and I’m speaking from personal experience.

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Here’s a version in the reborn Renault Scenic that actually works.

It’s a fold-down centre armrest with built-in drink holders, USB-C ports, storage trays and a clever tablet holder so the kiddlywinks can watch Paw Patrol on repeat.

Or turn the pivoting arms 45 degrees and they can each watch their own separate screens. Even cleverer.

Fold the armrest down completely and you’ve got a “ski hatch” for carrying long stuff like golf bats.

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Just as pleasing, the giant glass roof frosts over in sections to stop the sun dazzling those tablet screens or getting the littles ones too hot.

Smartphone pockets are stitched into the back of the front seats.

This is a genuinely well thought-out family car.

Up front, the driver will be just as happy. Upright touchscreen with a Google brain. Recycled textiles. Reversing camera. Wireless phone charger. Heated steering wheel. Massaging seat. All you need.

The cabin feels fresher and more designer than, say, a Ford Explorer.

How far does it go?

Scenic comes in two battery sizes. The 60kWh version from £37k will do up to 261 miles and the long-range £87kWh from £41k nudges 369 miles.

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Like a Tesla, the real-world range was pretty accurate on test.

Unlike a Tesla, Scenic has steering wheel paddles with four levels of braking regeneration. So it’s more fun. You can mimic changing down gears slowing for a corner, while replenishing the battery at the same time.

To conclude, then.

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Scenic is a nicely-appointed, long-range family car that should keep everyone happy. Not cheap. But better value than its rivals.

No surprise it was crowned 2024 European Car of the Year.