Renault has given its Scenic a new lease on life with a 'family look' facelift and the addition a crossover version called the XMOD.
While offering little in the way of off-road kit, besides its raised ground clearance and a traction control system designed for mud, sand and snow, the XMOD does at least look more rugged than its MPV sibling. This thanks to bespoke wheels and crossover-inspired bumpers, sill guards and chrome-finish roof bars.
The XMOD also benefits from new engines and interior technologies that will also form part of the conventional Scenic and Grand Scenic line-ups.
A highlight on the engine front is the fitment of Renault's new 96kW TCe 130 petrol engine, which is said to be 15 percent more fuel efficient than the 1.4T it replaces. It seems Renault is too scared to disclose its actual engine size though.
As far as cabin gadgets are concerned, the most exciting news is the fitment of Renault's R-link system, which includes a joystick control and a touchscreen display positioned within the driver's field of view.
While we'd bet on the new Scenic models arriving in South Africa this year, our contact at Renault SA could not confirm whether the XMOD is coming here, but said that it is indeed a promising product.