Renault has given its all-electric family SUV, the Scenic E-Tech, a comprehensive overhaul. Alongside updated battery packs that deliver greater range and noticeably faster charging times, the refresh introduces a modernized infotainment system featuring Google Gemini.
Two New Battery Options and Faster Charging
The French automaker is streamlining the powertrain lineup: Regardless of battery size, the vehicle will exclusively feature an electric motor producing 160 kW (218 hp) and 300 Nm of torque. Going forward, buyers can choose between two new battery variants that replace the previous iterations:
- Long Range (NMC): The nickel-manganese-cobalt battery offers an 89 kWh capacity, providing up to 632 kilometers of range under the WLTP cycle (the French Renault website mentions up to 642 km). Peak charging capacity reaches 150 kW, enabling a 15 to 80 percent charge in around 28 minutes. According to the manufacturer, combined energy consumption ranges between 16.6 and 17.3 kWh per 100 kilometers.
- Standard Range (LFP): The lithium iron phosphate battery, arriving later, holds 67 kWh for up to 459 kilometers of range (or 467 km according to French specifications). Thanks to cell-to-pack construction, it can handle up to 165 kW of charging power, reaching 15 to 80 percent in 24 minutes.
According to the manufacturer, DC fast-charging times drop by approximately 25 percent. An 11 kW AC onboard charger comes standard, while a 22 kW charger is available at an additional cost.
AI Voice Assistant and Modern Tech
Inside the 4.47-meter-long interior, which offers up to 1,670 liters of cargo capacity with the rear seats folded down (545 liters standard), Renault has upgraded the OpenR Link infotainment system. Drivers can now opt to activate Google Gemini as an AI voice assistant to handle more complex, contextual queries. Google Maps receives enhanced filtering options, allowing users to sort charging stations specifically by operator, output, or payment method. Renault bundles 2 gigabytes of monthly data for three years. Additionally, the smartphone charging pad now adopts the Qi2 standard and supports Apple’s MagSafe alignment.
Pricing and Market Positioning
With a starting price of 37,590 euros, the dedicated EV undercuts competitors such as the VW ID.4 Pro (starting at 40,335 euros) and the Tesla Model Y Long Range (starting at 49,970 euros) considerably. While 800-volt vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 recharge even faster at up to 260 kW, the Scenic moves toward the class average with calculated average charging rates of up to 124 kW.
Prospective buyers should evaluate their typical driving profile: Those primarily commuting daily or driving shorter distances may want to wait for the more affordable, robust LFP version. Long-distance drivers can immediately opt for the Long Range version with 89 kWh.
Sources: Heise – News
