Renault Grand Modus Expression 1.2 16v 5dr Car Review - March 2012

Light but responsive steering and a slick five-speed gearbox mean the Grand Modus is perfect for nipping around town. The ride is smooth and comfortable and while the car is unsettled by some larger bumps and road imperfections, for the most part it is easy to drive and uncomplicated.

The 1.2 litre TCE engine has a power output of 75 bhp and offers decent pace and economy, although the larger 1.5-litre dCi diesel offers even lower consumption, while providing even more shove throughout the rev range.

Performance credentials are moderate with the car achieving a top speed of 101 mph with acceleration capable of travelling from 0-62 mph in 13.7 seconds.

The Grand Modus was launched with a face lifted version of the original car in early 2008, taking inspiration from Grand versions of the Espace and Scenic – offering a bigger boot and more practical seating.

It has similar styling to the standard car and received new headlights and other tweaks with the 2008 facelift. Two trims are available, Expression and Dynamique, with a choice of five engines; this model comes with an average range of equipment including air conditioning, CD player and electric windows.

The Modus has experienced its fair share of issues. While top specification Dynamique equipped cars offering impressive luxury, entry-level cars are less desirable. Some sections of the cabin trim feels quite poor in quality, and cabin build isn't up to the same plush standards set by some of the Renault's more recent models which have moved out of showrooms in leaps and bounds. There are some issues with the Renault Modus engine as well in some models which the user needs to check with the dealers.

There are a few ingenious features hidden in and around the Modus that make it more practical than its rivals. The optional split-opening tailgate is very useful - it is possible to open a small section of the boot to quickly drop small items inside, which is particularly handy if another car has been parked close behind.

There's also a sliding rear bench seat and the option of an integrated bike rack. The Grand Modus offers a 305-litre boot capacity and more space in the cabin than the standard Modus.

By adding 93 mm to the wheelbase and 160 mm to the length, Renault had given the Grand Modus extra space in the rear, meaning three can fit comfortably. There is 117 litres more boot space, which can be expanded to a full capacity of 1,454 litres when the sliding rear bench is folded flat.

The cabin is basic but well built, with lots of clever storage spaces and an elevated driving position that offers good visibility. All Grand Modus variants have standard air conditioning that help to keep the glass cabin cool. However, while it’s well-equipped and available at decent value – as well as being more practical than the standard car – the Grand Modus still suffers from the unimpressive resale values of the standard car.

For best returns after three years, go for the diesels, which may cost more but also return excellent fuel economy figures of over 60 mpg on the official cycle. Priced conveniently at £11,150 this model caters to the need of medium sized families and, with impressive mileage of 47.9 mpg, ensures good economical returns to the customers.