Renault Scenic IV (J95) (2016 – 2022)

Reliability score : 6.8/10

The Renault Scenic IV (internal code J95 for the standard 5-seater, R95 for the 7-seater Grand Scenic) marks a radical departure from its predecessors. Abandoning the traditional boxy MPV silhouette, Renault opted for a crossover-inspired design with a lower roofline, dynamic styling, and a bold engineering choice: standard 20-inch wheels across all trim levels (fitted with narrow 195/55 R20 tires to maintain low rolling resistance). While this generation sacrificed some interior modularity (replacing individual removable rear seats with a 60/40 split-folding bench), it gained in driving dynamics and aesthetic appeal. Petrol Engine Focus: The Scenic IV's petrol lineup is a tale of two eras. Early models (2016-2018) were equipped with the infamous 1.2 TCe (H5F), plagued by severe reliabilit

✅ Strengths

Striking, modern design that ages very well
Excellent 1.3 TCe petrol engine (post-2018)
Standard 20-inch wheels provide great aesthetics without ruining ride comfort
'One-Touch' folding rear seats via the infotainment screen or trunk panel
Generous storage spaces, including the sliding center console (Easy Life drawer)
High level of active safety equipment standard from launch

⚠️ Weaknesses

Catastrophic reliability of the early 1.2 TCe petrol engines
Loss of individual, removable rear seats (replaced by a heavier 60/40 bench)
Rear legroom is surprisingly tight for a family vehicle, especially in the standard Scenic
R-Link 2 infotainment system is buggy and slow on pre-2018 models
Wind noise around the A-pillars and side mirrors at highway speeds
20-inch tires can be expensive to replace and wear quickly on the outer edges

🎯 Verdict

The Renault Scenic IV is a vehicle of two distinct halves. If you are looking at a petrol model from 2016 to early 2018 equipped with the 1.2 TCe, walk away. The risk of engine failure is simply too high. However, if you target a model from late 2018 onwards with the 1.3 TCe engine, the Scenic IV becomes an outstanding family car. It offers a brilliant blend of style, comfort, and punchy, reliable performance. Diesel buyers are well-served by the legendary 1.5 dCi for ultimate economy, though the newer 1.7 Blue dCi requires caution regarding its AdBlue system. Buy a 1.3 TCe 140hp with a full service history, and you will have one of the most stylish and capable family cruisers on the market.