What's all this about?
Renault's extending its all-new, fourth-generation Scenic MPV into a slightly larger version, that doesn't impinge on the full-sized Espace (which we don't get here anyway). Predictably, it's called the Grand Scenic again. But it looks a lot better than it did in its previous generation.
But how big are those wheels? What is the ride going to be like?
They're a set of 20-inch items, but they ride on almost improbably thin 195-section rubber with a deep 55-profile sidewall. The Scenic does much the same thing. And Renault claims these unusual 195/55 R20 tyres ensure decent ride quality.
OK. How about the dimensions?
It's quite a bit bigger in all directions than its Grand Scenic forebear and it's also given an extra 240mm of metal in the midriff compared to the new Scenic. That leads to a boot of 765 litres with the rear seats in situ, if you opt for the five-seat version.
Isn't the Scenic a five-seater anyway?
It is, but that hasn't stopped Renault from offering the Grand Scenic in both five- and seven-seat varieties. Customers like to have a lot of choice these days.
Talking of perhaps a surfeit of choice, is the car in the pictures brown?
Book not an appointment at Specsavers - your sight is fine. Vision Brown is a colour specific to the Grand Scenic and if you like, you can have the door pillars and mirrors finished in the same colour as the roof to give the car a two-tone effect.
What have we got on the inside?
The R-Link 2 infotainment system with its 8.7-inch touchscreen tablet, clever, modular seating arrangements and another shedload of storage space in the form of 63 litres of in-cabin stowage, including four underfloor cubbies.
And how about under the bonnet?
The same line-up as the Scenic, save for one entry-level diesel that's not included here. That gives you a choice of five dCi units and two petrol engines, with a Hybrid Assist model thrown in for good measure.
A hybrid Grand Scenic?
Yes, although only a mild one. The 110hp dCi six-speed manual model can be optionally upgraded to the Hybrid Assist, which adds a motor and a 48-volt power system to improve performance and reduce fuel consumption. Alternatively, pick the 110 dCi with a seven-speed EDC dual-clutch transmission, a 130hp dCi with the manual gearbox, a 160hp diesel with a six-speed EDC, or a choice of two Energy TCe petrol manuals, with either 115- or 130hp.
How much will all this cost?
Not sure yet, as Renault will reveal full UK prices and specifications nearer to the car's launch at the end of 2016, when it will go on sale alongside its Scenic sibling.
Matt Robinson - 24 May 2016