Ahead of its UK launch next February, Renault has released initial details for the freshly revitalised Scénic and Grand Scénic models for 2012, including sharper designs, the brand debut of two impressive downsized engines and numerous equipment enhancements.

Since its summer launch in 2009 the two-model Scénic line-up has continued to attract a wide range of buyers. Just over two years on, Renault has sought to build on the appeal with a series of exterior upgrades. Among them are a revised front end which is both modern and status enhancing, while its new rear lights add a particularly dynamic touch.

The changes continue with the fitment of LED daytime running lights, gloss black features and chrome details (at the front, plus tailgate strip and side moulding strip), plus a new range of wheel trims and alloy wheels. Grand Scénic’s more contemporary front end provides a more imposing look. Two new body colours will also be available, Azzurro Blue and Damask Red.

Renault’s work on driving down emissions, combined with ever-improving fuel economy and performance through smaller cubic capacity engine innovation has borne more fruit. Following the trend begun by the petrol 1.4 TCe 130 and 1.5 dCi 110, and most recently the arrival of the 1.6 dCi 130, the world’s most powerful and frugal diesel engine of its size, Scenic welcomes two new engines. The first, 1.5 dCi 110 Stop & Start, is an enhanced version of the French marque’s core diesel engine. Benefitting from several clever technologies derived from Formula 1 (Stop & Start, brake energy regeneration), it combines record low CO2 emissions of 105 grams per kilometre (reduced by 23g/km), and a 12 per cent saving in fuel consumption (up 11.3 mpg to 68.9), yet higher torque (260Nm at 1,750rpm; a gain of 20Nm) compared with the existing 1.5 dCi 110.

From spring 2012, the five- and seven-seater versions of Scénic will also be the first Renaults to receive the brand new 1.2 TCe 115 petrol engine. Due to gradually replace the 1.6 VVT 110, it offers low CO2 emissions (135g/km), 190Nm of torque (up 39Nm) and fuel consumption improved by a fifth, up 11.4 mpg to 49.6.

Joining them will be the highly acclaimed 1.6 dCi 130 Stop & Start, which itself boasts 20% better fuel consumption than its former 1.9 dCi 130 stablemate, together with greater performance and even lower emissions.

Thanks to these engines, Scénic and Grand Scénic will each play an important part in achieving Renault’s target to become Europe’s number one manufacturer with regard to the CO2 emissions of its range, without detracting from performance. They also highlight that the French brand’s proven powertrain excellence is still clearly evident as its relentless electric vehicle rollout begins in earnest.

Further details on Scenic 2012 range pricing and specification will be released closer to launch. UK order books are set to open on 1st February 2012, ahead of first deliveries in March.