Scenic stealer

PEOPLE carriers are enjoying an Indian summer for sales, according to trade analysts Glass's Guide, especially the smaller versions such as the Vauxhall Zafira and the one that started it all, the Renault Mgane Scenic.

Offering all the versatility and space most families demand without the bulk of a full-sized, multipurpose vehicle (MPV), such cars have soared in popularity with new sales up a staggering 93 per cent during August compared to the same period in 2000. The current bestseller is the Citron Picasso.

Used sales are similarly on the up and this explains why such cars depreciate less than the mainstream hatchbacks they are derived from. Around half of Mgane sales (the range is Renault's biggest ever hit in the UK) are accounted for by the Scenic.

The choice is good and includes the tax-friendly 1.4-litre, 75bhp (16v) model or the lustier 1.6- and 2-litre alternatives, or, of course, the economic diesels.

All models will prove cheap to run. Thanks to the Mgane's excellent crashprotection standards, insurance ratings are a lowly 5- 10, depending upon the model. Fuel economy should rarely dip below 30mpg even on the 2.0. The earliest models are the best value although the spring 1999 revised range has less body roll, perkier engines and better trim. Build quality also improved at this time (check that the interior hasn't been too badly abused by school runs, etc).

Apart from an assortment of possible rattles including the exhaust - the Scenic has proved fairly durable. The only exception is the automatic gearbox, which is known to be troublesome.

A Renault will never prove as cheap to run as a Ford but the Scenic is reasonably kind on the pocket: a clutch costs 75, exhaust 288, and a service costs from 130 to 280. This cleverly-designed car defined the baby people carrier market, and its success is thoroughly deserved.

Best buys: P-reg, 1.6e RT, 49,000 miles, 6,000, dealer V-reg, 2.0 Sport Alise, 25,000 miles, 10,000, dealer W-reg, 1.9dCi Monaco RX4, 19,000 miles, 12,800, dealer

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