Used Renault Modus MPV 2004 - 2012 review
The Renault Modus is classy, comfortable and versatile, but not the most enthralling car to drive
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What's the used Renault Modus like?
Ownership cost
Our recommendations
Reliability
Stuart Milne
Updated: 1 January 2006
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What's the used Renault Modus like?
Some buyers will be put off buying a Renault Modus because of its looks - its high sides and ungainly stance make it appear a bit awkward. However, these buyers will be missing out, because the Modus is a very talented car.
Those lofty dimensions make for excellent cabin space, with lots of headroom and, thanks to a sliding rear bench, limo-like legroom in the back. Mind you, that does steals space from the boot, so the Modus isn't as practical as you might expect.
Overview
The Renault Modus is classy, comfortable and versatile, but not the most enthralling car to drive
Pros
- Most models are well equipped and space is luxurious for four people
Cons
- Luggage space is sacrificed for passenger comfort and the Modus is quite pricey
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Renault Modus
1.2 TCe 16v Dynamique 5dr
£950
Renault Modus
1.2 16v Expression 5dr
£1,199
Renault Modus
1.4 16v Expression 5dr
£1,200
Renault Modus
1.6 16v Dynamique 5dr
£1,275
Renault MODUS
1.2 16v Oasis 5dr
£1,295
Renault Modus
1.2 TCe 16v Expression 5dr
£1,395
Renault Modus
1.6 16v Dynamique 5dr
£1,475
Renault Modus
1.6 16v Dynamique S 5dr
£1,490
Renault Modus
1.2 TCe 16v Expression 5dr
£1,495
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On the other hand, the drive is probably more comfortable than you would expect. The ride is smooth over any surface, and while the Modus doesn't have the most entertaining handling in this class, there's plenty of grip.
There's a wide range of engines and trims to choose from, and most cars are well stocked with goodies. The build quality is excellent, and the high-grade materials give a classier feel than you'll get in most superminis. Also, being a Renault, it's extremely safe.
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Tips & Advice
Make sure you’re insured for the test drive
Short-term car insurance – also called test-drive insurance – will ensure you’re legal when you’re shopping for your next car
Will the car fit your needs?
As part of the test drive, fill the car with regularly-carried luggage, and make sure the family can get comfy before you buy
Ownership cost
How much does cost to run a Renault Modus?
The Modus has the Vauxhall Meriva well beaten on running costs. Fuel economy is much better, especially on the diesels, with the 86bhp diesel returning a very impressive 62.9mpg. Our favourite 1.4 petrol engine gives a respectable 42.2mpg.
Tips & Advice
Organise your motoring life
Whether you need to keep tabs on your insurance renewal, sort breakdown cover, or book a service, My What Car? has you covered
Our recommendations
Which used Renault Modus should I buy?
There are plenty of engines to choose from - three petrol and three diesel.
If you want a petrol engine, you'll find the 1.2 is adequate, but the 1.4 provides extra performance, which comes in very handy. The 1.6 provides more power still and all have good fuel economy, with none failing to beat 40mpg.
Alternatively, you can go for the 1.5 dCi turbodiesel with outputs of 68, 86 or 106bhp. All provide decent performance, and they're very refined and frugal, but they're pricey in comparison with the petrols. That's why we'd recommend the 1.4 petrol.
There's a dizzying array of trim levels to consider, too, each of which provides varying combinations of equipment. All get remote central locking, curtain airbags, a CD player and electric front windows, but air-con is only standard on some. We'd go for Expression, which gives you everything you need at a relatively low price.
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How reliable is the Renault Modus ?
Renault Modus
Read reliability
Used cars available now
In partnership with
Renault Modus
1.2 TCe 16v Dynamique 5dr
£950
Renault Modus
1.2 16v Expression 5dr
£1,199
Renault Modus
1.4 16v Expression 5dr
£1,200
Renault Modus
1.6 16v Dynamique 5dr
£1,275
Renault MODUS
1.2 16v Oasis 5dr
£1,295
Renault Modus
1.2 TCe 16v Expression 5dr
£1,395
Renault Modus
1.6 16v Dynamique 5dr
£1,475
Renault Modus
1.6 16v Dynamique S 5dr
£1,490
Renault Modus
1.2 TCe 16v Expression 5dr
£1,495
See all available cars
About the writer
Name: Stuart Milne
Title: Digital editor
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Stuart has been a motoring journalist for more than 25 years, writing and editing for a wide range of consumer titles. Today, Stuart is responsible for the smooth running of whatcar.com and all of its related social and digital channels. And he’s the man responsible for making sure you're able to find What Car?’s industry-leading content whenever you search for it.