New Renault Scenic vs Kia EV6 vs Tesla Model Y: verdict
Having evolved from a sensible MPV into a trendy electric SUV, the Renault Scenic could be a hit all over again. But first it has to beat tough rivals from Kia and Tesla...
Our verdict
Sometimes a radical rethink is required, and Renault’s reinvention of the Scenic has turned out to be a masterstroke. This is a comfortable, practical, easy-mannered car that, when you consider its lengthy range and generous roster of kit, is incredibly well priced. It wins this test at a canter – and cheaper versions might even score five stars.
Things would have been tighter if the Model Y was a bit better to drive. Its lumpy ride and noisy cruising manners take the edge off a really practical SUV with class-leading efficiency. It’s very well equipped, too.
Last place goes to the EV6 – something that might come as a surprise, given that we said it was our favourite electric SUV earlier this year. That doesn’t apply to this particular version of it, though. The Air misses out on some luxuries that a £45k car really shouldn’t lack, and the EV6’s relatively poor showing in our most recent reliability survey is cause for concern.
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here
1st – Renault Scenic
For Longest range; lavishly equipped; cheapest to buy outright; attractive and practical inside; smooth and quiet cruiser
Against Not much fun to drive; disappointing efficiency; relatively slow to charge
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Renault Scenic review >>
Renault Scenic deals >>
2nd – Tesla Model Y
For Superb efficiency; hugely practical, with a massive boot; very well equipped; excellent Euro NCAP safety rating
Against Unsettled ride; so-so range between charges; relatively noisy at higher speeds; twitchy handling
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Tesla Model Y review >>
Tesla Model Y deals >>
3rd – Kia EV6
For Fine ride and handling balance; lots of rear leg room; respectable range; fastest charging capability
Against Not all that well equipped for the money; worrying reliability record; so-so interior quality; tightest for rear head room; shallow boot
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Kia EV6 review >>
Kia EV6 deals >>
Specifications: Renault Scenic E-Tech Long Range Iconic
Engine Electric motor
Peak power 215bhp
Peak torque 221lb ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic, front-wheel drive
0-60mph 8.6sec
30-70mph in kickdown 6.8sec
Top speed 105mph
Braking 30-0mph 8.5m
Braking 70-0mph 46.6m
Noise at 30mph 58.9dB
Noise at 70mph 64.7dB
Kerb weight 1935kg
Tyre size (standard) 235/45 R20
Real-world range 270 miles (est)
Official range 370 miles
Efficiency on test 3.1 miles/kWh
Battery capacity (usable) 87kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Maximum charging rate 150kW
Charging time with 7kW home wallbox 14hr (0-100%)
Charging time with rapid charger, peak rate 40min (10-80%)
Miles added per 15min using rapid charger 85
CO2 emissions 0g/km
Specifications: Kia EV6 RWD Air
Engine Electric motor
Peak power 226bhp
Peak torque 257lb ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic, rear-wheel drive
0-60mph 7.3sec
30-70mph in kickdown 6.1sec
Top speed 114mph
Braking 30-0mph 8.4m
Braking 70-0mph 45.9m
Noise at 30mph 59.2dB
Noise at 70mph 65.1dB
Kerb weight 1985kg
Tyre size (standard) 235/55 R19
Real-world range 252 miles (est)
Official range 328 miles
Efficiency on test 3.4miles/kWh
Battery capacity (usable) 74kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Maximum charging rate 238kW
Charging time with 7kW home wallbox 11hr 45min (0-100%)
Charging time with rapid charger, peak rate 18min (10-80%)
Miles added per 15min using rapid charger 170
CO2 emissions 0g/km
Specifications: Tesla Model Y RWD
Engine Electric motor
Peak power 295bhp
Peak torque 310lb ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic, rear-wheel drive
0-60mph 7.2sec
30-70mph in kickdown 5.3sec
Top speed 135mph
Braking 30-0mph 8.3m
Braking 70-0mph 44.4m
Noise at 30mph 60.0dB
Noise at 70mph 65.5dB
Kerb weight 1984kg
Tyre size (standard) 255/45 R19
Real-world range 220 miles (est)
Official range 283 miles
Efficiency on test 3.8 miles/kWh
Battery capacity (usable) 57.5kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Maximum charging rate 170kW
Charging time with 7kW home wallbox 9hr 15min (0-100%)
Charging time with rapid charger, peak rate 25min (10-80%)
Miles added per 15min using rapid charger 97
CO2 emissions 0g/km
Weather conditions Dry
Cars pictured
Renault Scenic E-Tech Long Range Iconic with Midnight Blue metallic paint and Diamond Black roof (£1250)
Kia EV6 RWD Air with Interstellar Grey metallic paint (£675)
Tesla Model Y RWD with Pearl White Multi-Coat paint and 20in Induction wheels (£2100)
